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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  Solid Car thats Stylish too - 2006 Scion TC
  By billy - December 13 - 12:30 am

  This car is my first new car purchase, after graduating college I was looking for a stylish looking car that would be reliable as well. The scion tC is that car. Pros: Great looking, nice stereo, quick for a 4-cyl., interior design is stylish, back seats a roomy and all seats are comfortable and this car defenitly looks more exensive than it is (will get expensive when you add options like I did) and you can customize it. Cons: loud engine, rims scratch real easy, small trunk (but who really cares about trunk space). Overall I give this car a B and it is the perfect choice for a first car.

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  My Horrible Experience - 2005 Scion TC
  By Billy - December 12 - 11:46 pm

  I bought this car with 167 mi. on it and since I drove it off the lot its been nothing but problems. It has been in the shop 6 weeks total time, has been repainted, and Im still having problems with it. The sunroof wont stop creaking (even though Ive had it "fixed" twice), the CD player broke, the ac/heat button are sticking for some unknown reason, and sometimes the heat doesnt even work. Worst car I have EVER owned.

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  Affordable and Fun to Drive - 2008 Scion TC
  By Mike Nemo - December 8 - 10:23 pm

  This car is definitely more fun to drive than a Mazda3, Mitsubishi Lancer or Eclipse. It handles great on the highway and on back roads. Brakes are excellent. It really turns peoples heads when you pass. It is affordable and with so many factory accessories very easy to customize from the initial purchase.

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  Fantastic, Ultra-Reliable Car - 2010 Scion TC
  By ray137 - December 7 - 3:43 pm

  Mine is a black 2006. This same model carries all the way over to 2010. I now have 115,000 on it and the only things I have done are oil changes, transmission fluid, new brakes, and tires. Still runs like brand new. You will not find any other car out there for under 18 grand that has all the features of this vehicle. The 5-speed shifter is buttery smooth, even at 115,000. There is plenty of low and mid-range torque. I drop it into 3rd and hit the gas to merge onto highway and it blasts forward with no issues. Although the huge glass sunroof makes it top heavy, the car still handles corners very well. Plenty of power. If you want more power, then you will have to pay much more than 18 grand.

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  Love the Car - 2005 Scion TC
  By Justin - December 7 - 12:06 pm

  I love driving the car, a 5-speed manual. It has 18 inch rims supercharged, cold air intake, and the TRD exhaust. It even has custom seats that has Supercharged engraved on them. The only complaints I have is that it is so inexpensive to buy at $17,000 used, yet the parts are expensive around $350 for one tire and $515 for front brakes. Other than that, the car is very quick and is a lot fun to drive. The car gets a lot of looks no matter where you go.

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  Get the Shifter! - 2007 Scion TC
  By Nick - December 6 - 10:53 am

  I have put only 300 miles on the car, but I love it. I drove it for two days with stock shifter and then had a short throw installed. It was the best money I ever spent, it makes a huge difference. I highly recommend this as an upgrade. Also, the strut bar has really stiffened up the front end. The accelerator is touchy and the hydraulic clutch takes a little getting used to. I still havent mastered it yet. For the money, you cannot beat this car. But I truly think it is for someone who wants a inexpensive sporty car, not a touring vehicle. For those of you who are interested, 75mph = 3,500 RPM so dont be surprised on the freeway when there is probably a little more engine noise then you are used to.

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  Fun and Safe! - 2005 Scion TC
  By goofy11 - December 5 - 5:30 pm

  I owned this car for nine months and really enjoyed it while it lasted. We had no problems with the car when we bought it from a friend. The car drives and handles very well for an affordable car. I took it to the track a couple of times and it surprised a professional driver on how well it handles and manages to keep up with a modded Subaru sti, honda s2000, and even a corvette in the corners (although it didnt have the power to keep up on the straights). The car has very good performance for the price. I recommend the manual. The reason why i didnt own this car to long is because it was totaled in a freak accident at 70 miles an hour, however I was able to walkaway completely unharme

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  Dont know what this means? - 2005 Scion TC
  By What does this mean? - December 1 - 6:36 pm

  A fun and inexpensive car to drive and own.

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  Kool Scion - 2006 Scion TC
  By CK - November 30 - 6:50 pm

  Its been 8 months since I purchased my new Scion tC. It is an excellent car for the price. My only suggestion would be to increase the length of the car a little bit, so it looks more sleek and nice. The drive is very comfortable and its a very stable car .

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  Excellent - 2006 Scion TC
  By Barbara Smith - November 28 - 1:40 pm

  I have loved my Scion tC from the day I picked it up at the dealership. It handles so very well for me. The pickup is great when starting up. I am a short woman and I love that the car doesnt seem to overwhelm me with size.