Overview & Reviews

Can you be cool and practical? Skinny jeans and high-heeled shoes would indicate otherwise, but the Scion tC proves that it just might be possible. It certainly seems pretty cool, with a coupe body style, sharp looks and a variety of customization opportunities for younger buyers accustomed to getting things the way they want them. Scion has also frequently updated the tC's audio systems, which has given it a leg up as iPods and iPhones have gradually taken over the world.

At the same time, however, the tC's coupelike roof line masks hatchback utility with its impressive cargo capacity and a surprisingly spacious backseat. Moving dorm rooms or taking your friends out on the town is consequently much easier with the tC than it is with traditional coupes. This ability to be both cool and practical is indeed the tC's primary appeal, although sharing a reputation for reliability with Toyota (Scion's parent company) is also a compelling attraction.

Current Scion tC
The Scion tC is a five-seat compact hatchback coupe. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder is standard, boasting 179 horsepower (1 less than before) and 173 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a six-speed automatic is the lone factory option. Although the tC's combined fuel economy estimate of 26 mpg is respectable, most rivals are more fuel-efficient.

The tC comes in two trim levels: base and the limited edition "10 Series." Standard features for the base tC include 18-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a touchscreen interface and an eight-speaker sound system with a CD player, HD radio, an iPod/USB interface and RCA output jacks. The 10 Series, which celebrates Scion's 10th birthday, adds unique silver paint, dark-finished wheels, illuminated badges, LED accent lighting, an illuminated center console and premium stitching on the seats and steering wheel. Dealer-installed options include a navigation system, upgraded audio units and multicolored interior mood lighting.

Although the Scion tC is classified as a compact car, its relatively long wheelbase provides ample legroom, especially for those riding in the back. Long doors and far-sliding seats make entry and exit relatively easy, and rear passengers will also enjoy the split-folding rear seats that recline up to 45 degrees. With its rear seats folded down, the tC has nearly as much cargo volume as a compact SUV. The tC's passenger-side front seat also folds flat, which allows the car to accommodate long items such as surfboards.

Though the tC isn't especially sporty to drive, the interior does its best to indicate otherwise. The thick-rimmed, flat-bottomed steering wheel looks as if it was pulled from a racecar, while controls canted toward the driver further this impression. Unfortunately, the interior is filled with hard plastics that seem cheaper than those found in the tC's rivals. On the road, the Scion tC is responsive and involving enough to keep you entertained around town, but not so sporty that you'd relish driving it on a curvy back road. The steering has decent weighting and feel, but the stability control has a tendency to kick in frequently during aggressive driving.

Overall, the Scion tC is a respectable choice for a compact coupe. If driving fun is a priority, there are better choices, including Scion's own FR-S. But for those shoppers mainly wanting something stylish and practical, the tC will certainly satisfy.

Used Scion tC Models
The current-generation tC debuted for 2011. The following year brought standard Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, as well as the Release Series 7.0 that sported flashy yellow paint, a body kit, black wheels and keyless ignition and entry. For 2013 there was the similarly themed but very red Release Series 8.0, whose highlights also included a sport-tuned suspension, a center-exit exhaust and, for those fitted with the automatic transmission, paddle shifters. Although otherwise similar, note that these tCs lack the current version's updates that include revised styling with a much more aggressive face, an improved automatic transmission (with rev-matched downshifts) and slightly retuned suspension and steering systems.

The first-generation Scion tC was produced from 2005-'10. Like the current car, it was a two-door hatchback coupe with five seats and a single trim level. Standard equipment included 17-inch wheels, air-conditioning, split-folding-and-reclining rear seats, keyless entry, full power accessories with one-touch power windows, a dual-pane sunroof, cruise control, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and a premium sound system. An iPod interface was added for 2008, making the tC one of the first vehicles to get such a feature.

A considerable number of optional features and accessories (from the factory or dealer-installed) were available on the Scion coupe. Most notable was the airbag package with side and head curtain airbags, so make sure to note whether a used tC is so equipped. Other mods included interior and exterior styling add-ons, 18-inch wheels, audio system head unit upgrades and Toyota Racing Development (TRD) performance parts.

Power came from a strong 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine good for 161 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual was standard and a four-speed automatic was optional. Fuel economy was one of the tC's detriments, with an EPA combined rating of 24 mpg for the automatic -- about the same that most midsize sedans offer. There was a dealer-installed TRD supercharger available that raised engine output to 200 hp.

Inside, this tC's layout was very similar to that of the current car, with a roomy reclining backseat and generous hatchback trunk. There wasn't as much front seat legroom, however, and the steering wheel did not telescope. The tC's cabin had an upscale look and feel thanks to high-quality materials (for the time and class) and metallic-look trim pieces. An elegant "waterfall"-style center stack flowed into the center console, with a panel that covered up whichever of the many available stereo faceplates were affixed to the car.

In Scion tC reviews, our editors commented that this tC was enjoyable to drive, though hardly a sport coupe. Although its acceleration figures weren't stunning, the tC was quick enough for typical urban use. As with the current car, we were most impressed by its ability to be both stylish and practical, noting it was an ideal car for the youthful demographic for which it was intended.

This original tC changed very little during its run. However, there were minor exterior and interior updates made for 2008 -- including the addition of an iPod-specific interface. There were several updates made to the available stereo systems over the years as well, along with new items added to the extensive optional features list. A decontented, tuner-intended version known as the Spec was available for a few model years (ending in 2008) and could easily be picked out of a crowd by its unique paint colors and badge-less grille. The Release Series 6.0 for 2010 looked similar, but it actually had more equipment than the norm.

User Reviews:

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  extraordinary value - 2005 Scion TC
  By rol - April 27 - 10:00 pm

  Have approx 5 k driven. What a fun vehicle! I recommend to anyone looking for a sporty affordable way to scoot around.

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  A great value - 2008 Scion TC
  By RemKit - April 25 - 5:40 pm

  Great 2 door car for the money. Nice set of features that come standard and vast array of options and TRD performance upgrades. Making this a performance car might not be worth the money, but a few performance tweaks could make an everyday driver happy. I agree with many others that a rear wiper would definitely come in handy. A major problem in customization for tires. 2008 tC comes with Z rated tires! Sounds great if you are taking this thing to the track, but for everyday driving they are completely unnecessary & expensive. There is no downgrade option for all weather tires - big mistake for car buyers who know what they want.

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  Great Car! - 2005 Scion TC
  By Matt - April 25 - 3:06 pm

  There is no better deal out there. For all of the standard features you get and the power, this car should cost $20,000. The standard transmission is tons of fun and sporty. It has lots of power and a sporty feel when driving while maintaining a comfortable drive. I dont know how Scion is making any money on these with all of the bells and toys that they have in there.

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  Great car for the price - 2009 Scion TC
  By Jakers - April 20 - 11:10 pm

  I used to valet so Ive driven everything from a Honda Del Sol to a Maserati Quattroporte, and I tried to be as fair as possible when rating the Tc. Here are my pros and cons: I have already logged over 10k miles on my car without a single problem. The back moonroof shade will rattle if you drive on the hgwy w/ the windows down (to be expected) Scion cut costs on the frame, but if you can do that and still score 5 star safety ratings, who wouldnt? my tires tread is already getting low. Ill be lucky if they last 10K more miles its not very quick.. at least not with a manual. 1st is done early compared to other light-weight cars interior could use a quality boost

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  Rockin tc - 2005 Scion TC
  By jblee - April 20 - 6:30 am

  What a great ride! Ive had mine about 3 months & 2800 miles and love it. You dont see a lot on the road which is nice. Cant believe all the stuff that comes standard. Could use more HP but Toyota now has the turbo for these puppies as a dealer option. Only option I have are the factory airbags - all this for $17,200!! Could defintely use a 6th gear as I run about 3500 rpms at 75 mph. Stereo system rocks for a "stock" unit! My kids fit in the back seat with no problems. So far so good!..

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  My first 2005 Scion - 2005 Scion TC
  By Nadeem - April 15 - 10:00 am

  This car is very responsive on handling corners and great for upgrading to enhance the speed and looks!

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  21,000 and Going Strong - 2005 Scion TC
  By Tom J Dixon - April 15 - 7:53 am

  I ordered the Scion TC without a test drive or ever seeing one. The car was delivered with papers ready. The first impression was that the car looked great! Jumped inside and my head was at ceiling level! However, with a few pushes down on the seat height and I was in heaven. I have driven through the Smoky Mountains and the car sticks like glue and I never have to downshift. Plenty of Power! Six months have passed and only complaints, Needs sixth gear to increase the 29mpg that I get to mid thirties. Radio cover squeaks and the radio needs a dial. Love the MP3 playback and Ive programmed the radio screen to read "I Love Anita" when it comes on. Love the Dual Sunroof! Great, Great Value!!

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  Fun to Drive, but Lots of Problems - 2005 Scion TC
  By mully - April 15 - 7:20 am

  I see everyone loves this car, and I do too except for all of the problems! Rattles, rattles everywhere. My sunroof doesnt close, front brakes make a clicking noise constantly, hatch rattles, dashboard rattles and squeeks. it also doesnt help that my dealership is terrible. I probably have the most mileage of anyone I have talked to (24,000), but the car just doesnt seem to be holding up well. The paint is very cheap, the front of the car has so many scratches and chips you cant even see the color of the car (indigo ink). Overall I love the car, I just hate all the issues it has. I will be returning to Honda now that the new Civic is out.

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  Glad I bought this - 2008 Scion TC
  By ForTheWifey - April 14 - 11:06 am

  After reading all these reviews about the Scion tC. I thought it was all a joke and thought it was one person writing reviews over and over again. I test drove one a couple weeks ago and LOVED IT, absolutely loved it. The dual sunroof, quick accel, looks the whole deal. I wanted to keep it, but I bought it for my wife, so I guess I will sneak it out when she sleeps =).

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  Great Car - 2010 Scion TC
  By RayL - April 13 - 3:36 pm

  This is a great car to drive. Not only do you get a very nice price you get alot of features included. I do disagree on the ratings of performance it has great power for the engine you are working with, but it is the styling of the car which got me hooked on this car. You will have a smile everytime you drive it.