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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  Affordable fun - 2005 Scion TC
  By chuck54633 - September 13 - 10:00 am

  This car was clearly designed to appeal to people with expensive taste and small pocket books. When I look at it and drive it I identify with all kinds of european cars that I cant afford to purchase, maintain, or insure. I wasnt really going to buy a car, but when I drove it for a family member who couldnt locate one in their town, I fell in love with it and bought it. This car has a little bit of everything that I want: great handling, low end torque, interior comfort/convenience, many safety features, and a rediculously low purchase price. This car makes every other car in its price bracket look like a total joke because they spent the money in the right places.

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  the perfect car - 2005 Scion TC
  By tCDriver - September 13 - 10:00 am

  For the price and features combination, the tC cant be beat. The interior build quality and the sleek exterior make this the best sport-coupe for Gen-Y drivers. Not only is the car affordable, but it has a ton of features you wont see on other cars in the price segment. I got mine with the ground effects kit and the spoiler, and it looks like an expensive sports car. The interior is designed with usability in mind. All of the controls are easy to reach and are intuitive. The engine (which, by the way, is the same 2.4L, 160HP power plant youll find in a Camry) is smooth and powerful. Overall, you wont be able to find a car with this many features at this price.

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  Scion is GREAT - 2005 Scion TC
  By brtpinhilo - September 13 - 10:00 am

  This car is Fantastic! Not only is it a piece of art to look at, its also a gem to own. You couldnt ask for more for your money. I recommend one to everyone.

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  Best under-$20k car, and its sexy too - 2009 Scion TC
  By TC driver - September 10 - 9:33 am

  Yeah so its made for people younger than me (51) but I love my TC. The drive, comfort and handling impressed me from day one. Plenty of pickup, great visibility, a pleasure to drive. Plus the TC is a great value $$$. 160-watt stereo has too much bass for my tastes but it has great iPod interfacing. Logical interior layout. The moonroof is terrific. Good gas economy. Roomier on the inside than it looks from the outside. Large cargo space with back seats folded down. I get lots of compliments on how my silver TC looks. Its a sleek & sexy car. All the other Scions look clunky to me but the TC stands out. I dont think theres a better new car for under $20k out there.

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  Black Cherry Pearl - 2006 Scion TC
  By Gil - September 9 - 8:03 am

  There is so much that you can do to the Scion tC. I have had the tC for about 5 months now. I still cant make up my mind on what I want to do to it.

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  The real BMW 1 series..made in Japan - 2005 Scion TC
  By steve - September 9 - 5:13 am

  I purchased the car with most options, Sat. radio, 6-disc changer, A/T,Spoiler. Since then,i have purchased an aluminium shift knob, and will be doing performance and visual upgrades in the near future. This is a great car, not only for the money , but in general. The performance is pretty good, and depending on your wallet size it can be as mild or wild as you like. The styling is very BMWesqe, especially at the c-piller. The interior has a Lexus like fit and finish, with all the controls easily accessable. The Pioneer Radio/CD player could have better buttons, but i am nit- picking. This is a car that is perfect for the first time buyer as well as a "seasoned" veteran like myself.

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  tC Scion (I love my Scion!) - 2005 Scion TC
  By atlmrj1 - September 7 - 1:56 am

  I love my Scion! I purchased a 2005 limited edition tC and I have no complaints. I went in to test drive and walked out two hours later with this car. Its a bargain hunters dream come true.

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  best car purchased - 2005 Scion TC
  By moose86 - September 4 - 7:16 am

  well i just got the tc about a month and a half ago and it is the coolest car, the mp3 player is awesome, the interior and exterior styling is great. i would rate this vehicle a 10 in fun to drive bc you never get sick of driving it no matter where youre going. i got the 5 speed manual and the handling is great on it.

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  Awesome Car! - 2009 Scion TC
  By SM - August 31 - 3:30 am

  This car has some serious pep! I went from driving a VW Jetta with 115hp and 122lb. foot of torque. I love everything about this car. The interior is awesome, very easy to read the dials and is truly a sports coupe hatchback. I had a problem with my Jetta not starting in cold weather, I live in Michigan, and it gets well below zero, my jetta wouldnt start, but my Scion will, with ease. I no longer own the Jetta.

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  Most Excellent - 2005 Scion TC
  By Joehairybearsc - August 29 - 9:56 pm

  Blows my 2003 Turbo VW Beetle away, excellent all around, best car I have owned.