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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  Nice car for $17,000 - 2006 Scion TC
  By austin - August 25 - 2:40 pm

  The Scion tC is a great car. Its agile, quick, and sporty. The rear seats have plenty of room and they recline and fold forward for more space. The standard Pioneer stereo is nice, it needs more watts though. The glass top is cool, not many cars have that. This car needs a 6-speed transmission not a 5-speed, unless you drive 55 you will not see that 30 mpg on the highway. 70 mph runs you @ 3,500 rpm. This car has lots of torque down low, and a forgiving clutch.

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  Wow - 2005 Scion TC
  By John - August 23 - 11:40 pm

  I had totaled my eclipse and was in the hunt for a new car. I seen the TC on the commercials and thought it was a nice looking car. The commercials dont do this car justice. I went and took a look at it and had to have it. It is beautifully designed. Nice sleek curves and well drawn out lines. There is no need for aftermarket body kits or better wheels. Performance suprised me for the price. Its not a break neck performer but can be tuned to be that way easily. I suggest the cold air intake and the borla exhaust from the factory. All in all, this is an excellent car for the price.

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  Great Price, Great Value! - 2008 Scion TC
  By Tony Nguyen - August 21 - 7:00 pm

  First car to own; one of many cars driven. Value for its price is above outstanding. Looks great, and IS great as the parts are all made with Toyota quality. I drive about 75 miles per day in Houston weather, and do not have much to complain about. The standard tires are a bit below average, (slide during not too aggressive turns). The radio door squeaks (nothing a bit of oil cant fix though). Has projector headlights which is a GREAT plus! The only major problem is the coin/change compartment. DO NOT put pennies or dimes in there! They will fall through the hinge hole and cause the compartment to NOT open up fully anymore! Be caution of this. Otherwise, Great Value Car!

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  My Tc - 2007 Scion TC
  By Anna27 - August 12 - 12:16 am

  I bought my Scion Tc in March 2007. I had read reviews on this website about the paint quality, which has proven to be true. I have some scratches on my car that I think wouldnt have shown up as well on my old car. Now that I have that said, I LOVE love love my car. I have not had a single problem with this car in the over year and half I have had it. It drives perfectly. I havent had to replace a single thing. I realize this isnt a luxury car, but as far as an economical choice, I couldnt recommend a better deal. The backseat area is great. The car drives with expected speed and great agility. Overall-For the price bracket it falls into, an awesome deal-wouldnt replace it ever.

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  Solid car - 2006 Scion TC
  By pakman7 - August 8 - 10:06 pm

  Ive had it for 5+ years and it was my 1st big purchase after college. Its been good but Ive had similar problems as some of the other posts written. Biggest problem was water pump going out at 67k, luckly it didnt heat and part was inexpensive. read trunk latch broke off, sunroof doesnt close all the way unless I hold down the wind blocker. Front seats dont go back to original position when accessing the back seat. Fun to drive tho and fairly roomy for a coupe, great on gas (avg 27 mpgs for me). The car also comes with good options in a standard package and has retained its value. Which is good cuz Im ready to move on from coupes, tired of 2 doors and poor vision in coupes.

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  I like this car a lot! - 2005 Scion TC
  By ScubaSteve - August 5 - 5:56 am

  I test drove the Mazda 3, VW GTI and Scion tC all in the same day. All had great features about them - Mazda felt more nimble, had 4 doors, and I like the design & the VW was the sportiest and had leather seats - but the tC was without a doubt the best overall value. And factoring in Toyotas reliability record compared to Mazda and VW and the haggle free selling approach I just couldnt pass up on the tC. Its stylish, comfortable, has tons of standard features that usually cost extra on other cars in this price range, and offers a decent amount of performance. Unfortunately, at around 8,000 miles, I started getting the sunroof "pop" and now theres a rattle coming from somewhere in my hatch :-\

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  Fantastic vehicle, recommend to all - 2005 Scion TC
  By Joe Balls - August 2 - 10:00 am

  I bought this vehicle for an every day driver car to go to work every day. I never expected to enjoy the drive the way I do. It seems that may people are quickly turning there heads in the direction I am heading to see and figure out what king of vehicle I am driving. It is very comfortable, very powerful (for its size) and its a great looking car...

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  Great Little Car - 2009 Scion TC
  By Debbie - July 31 - 10:46 pm

  The steering is tight as a sports car. It handles great with a lot of get up and go. Excellent sound system. I love the color - Sizzling Crimson. A lot of people ooohed and aahhhed as it was driven off the showroom floor. With minimum down, I still had great low payments.

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  cool car - 2005 Scion TC
  By valleygirl76 - July 27 - 7:36 am

  I have had my scion TC for about 2 months now, and so far so good. If you are looking for an attention getting stylish somewhat inexpensive car, this is perfect. It handles well and is seemingly reliable (of course time will tell). Everywhere I go, people compliment me on it, which is fun!!! It is very roomy inside and I feel very safe in it (heavy solid doors and tons of airbags). I also love that it is a toyota (heard it has the same engine as a camry). Definitley a cool, fun, safe, reliable car!!! highly recomeneded!

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  This would be the best car for the money - 2007 Scion TC
  By AmoAMiTc - July 24 - 8:06 pm

  I love this car. It is fun to drive and you dont see it everywhere like mazda 3s and other new, semi affordable cars. Everyone compliments the car, even with paint chips. Its just different and fun.