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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  Would be a perfect car for a teenager - 2006 Scion TC
  By Melissa - July 23 - 11:30 pm

  I bought my 2006 tc brand new. At first I loved it because of all the options. You really cant get as many for the price. The dual sunroof was really neat, steering wheel controls were nice. Good price and good deal, but too much plastic everywhere. Car is very cookie cutter. The weird cover over the radio always seemed annoying. I got plenty of looks and comments, but all from 16 year old kids when getting my car washed. Had to get rid of it and get an "adult" car. Nice, quick, but VERY TINY little car. Dont expect anyone to get in the back seat. Perfect for a teen, which is what Scion targets anyway...my bad...

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  Drove It And Gifted It - 2006 Scion TC
  By jayadler1 - May 6 - 12:00 am

  June 22, 2008 Let me preface my remarks by clearly indicating that I am very high on Toyota and at my age cannot remember how many Corollas and Camrys I have owned and enjoyed as being totally reliable and satisfying in every aspect of design and and engineering. The chronicle of events with my Scion purchase I think was unique to say the least. I really only had one solitary reason for giving it away after about 1 year of driving it and I am suggesting that the logic was personal and not applicable to all Scion drivers I never sat in the car before purchase. I am a man who is 190 lbs and wears a 44 Suit. Nobody has ever suggested a need for weight loss.That means I need a lot of room. jayadler1

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  For the money... - 2007 Scion TC
  By Tankery - May 2 - 12:50 am

  I couldnt find a half way sporty car for under 20 grand until this came along. Its bland yet cute and has some nice amenities like the glass roof and MP3 output, mp3 CD player - woo hoo!

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  Hes a Champ...He Sure Knows It! - 2007 Scion TC
  By Andrea T - April 20 - 6:36 pm

  I am proud to admit out loud that my Classic Silver Mica tC already has 85,000 miles on it. I know it seems crazy but its too much of a fun car to drive. What makes it even more encouraging to drive it is the extra money to buy aftermarket parts. Im averaging 29 mpg (combined) with the Cold Air Intake even with my heavy lead-foot. My downs about it aren’t serious defaults to not turn anyone away from test driving it and buying one. But its expensive to do dealer warranty maintenance like 30k or 60k; my dealer cost me $485.00 each time. My other down is I wish Toyota spent little more production money on better paint job. My final statement; This car is steal for what you pay! & its Toyota

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  New buyer potential - 2005 Scion TC
  By New buyer potential - April 10 - 10:00 am

  I narrowed down to Base RSX(no leather and 5sp) and TC(5sp). I have hard time to chose which car is more fun. I hold back the tC due to resale value of car because of low version of Toyota. Is there anyone give me some comparision between them beside the number on specification?

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  Falls apart - 2008 Scion TC
  By LAMich - April 2 - 12:20 am

  Ive owned this car for more than 2 years and there always an issue. The original tires made the car lower than my previous car. So when I park head on, the high curb started pulling out the undercover. Next thing you know, my entire bumper is messed up because its attached to the undercover. A few months down the road, I had to replace all 4 tires after 35K miles. So when I finally fixed that, I hit a garbage bin which knock off my passenger side mirror. Then a couple months, the car wash "professional" managed to break off the rear hatchback garnish/handle when he cleaning the back. Next thing you know I hit a gutter/driveway and my undercover is bent. This car has been a headache.

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  Nice little car - 2007 Scion TC
  By msfirefly36 - March 17 - 3:06 am

  Turns around curves good. Zippy.. holds its own, passes well. Black cherry color has got many compliments. Its an all around good car for going to/from work. I wouldnt drive it in the deep snow. On long trips the seats killed my back. Not much room inside for toting alot of luggage on a long trip - else all good. After 57K no problems with the mechanical. 30mpg highway

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  Great, Except for Minor Things - 2005 Scion TC
  By Desertdweller - February 12 - 12:56 pm

  We were the first Scion tC owners in our area, buying the first one to hit the local dealership. Our tC now has 45,000 miles on it with no engine problems. It has been a blast to drive. There is plenty of room in front, and the engine is peppy, though a turbo would be extra cool. I drive through a tight hair-pin down-hill grade every morning to work. I have noticed that the tC handles nicely and I frequently pass more expensive sports cars with ease. Id say the tC is a great deal for the money. Our only complaint is the paint does not hold up at all! There are chips and door-dings everywhere. The front bumper and head light domes are riddled with a permanent sandblast from driving in the desert.

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  2008 scion tc - 2008 Scion TC
  By cocacolagrl - February 10 - 7:10 am

  The 2008 scion tc is a great car. I have owned it since January 2011 and i bought it with 19000 miles. now almost a year later it has over 30,000. I love to drive it. I bought this car after owning a 1992 toyota camry for 5 years, so this was quite an upgrade for me. It has only been in the dealership for oil changes and a battery change. The only person who doesnt seem to like it is my father. He is tall and he cant really get very comfortable in the front seat. my scion is the azure pearl color which turns alot of heads. its not as sporty looking as some other cars but its good enough for me! the only thing i dont like is the paint is very prone to chipping..

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  Great Car for the Money - 2005 Scion TC
  By antioch - January 20 - 10:53 am

  I bought my Scion tC for my long commute. It is fun to drive and gets decent gas mileage. You can also buy Toyota TRD upgrades that can add some more vroom without voiding your warranty. I like it!