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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  what a beauty! - 2005 Scion TC
  By soapdish - November 13 - 10:00 am

  This is an amazing car. It handles extremely well, smooth as can be and have a punch when needed. I am trading in an Acura TL (1999) for this car so its quite a difference but a difference that I do not mind at all. Whoever purchases car will be happy with drive, quality, looks and performance.

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  Scion tC - 2005 Scion TC
  By falcon9094 - November 13 - 10:00 am

  This car turns heads, accelerates great, handles like a sports car and all around is a great car to own and drive.

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  This car is great - 2005 Scion TC
  By Krn9880 - November 13 - 10:00 am

  This car is so much fun to drive and overall its a great car. The only problem i have is that i have blind spots in the back and the window is short. But other than that i would recommend this car to anyone.

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  My new Scion Tc - 2005 Scion TC
  By Gibsongirl - November 13 - 10:00 am

  GREAT FUN to drive..poor mileage...Air Conditioning needs to be more powerful in 90+ heat. Feel the road bumps..great moonroof, radio is wonderful--BLIND spot over drivers shoulder..nice hatchback (needs a release button inside car),..I bought the neon lights inside..nice touch ! Everyone wants to know WHO MAKES IT??? LOL...I am happy..for awhile..

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  Its Named After Me!!!! - 2005 Scion TC
  By Taffney - November 13 - 10:00 am

  This is my first car purchased by myself and my mom as a graduation present. This car has caught the attention of people every where! I am so comfortable in this car. Its called the Scion tC for "total comfort". I could not be happier with the purchase I have made. Its definitely the car of the new millenium!

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  Great Car - 2005 Scion TC
  By herb - November 11 - 11:20 am

  I had this car 5 years and not a single problem, car is quick and sharp looking

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  Outside the Target - 2006 Scion TC
  By tvguyjake - October 26 - 10:36 pm

  Traded in an 02 Jeep Liberty for my Scion tC...what a difference. The ride quality, tight steering, balanced handling, low-end torque...all with reknowned Toyota build-quality. I spent 4 months looking for a new ride,,,,drove them all; and still cannot believe all the standard features packed from Scion for $17,000.

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  Great car - 2008 Scion TC
  By Sandy - October 22 - 6:00 pm

  Was looking for a replacement for my 2003 Celica GT and this was the most appealing and fun choice. Great looking car that handles well and is very comfortable on my long daily commute (115 miles, round trip). Not looking forward to driving it in inclement weather because of the tires, though, but hopefully Toyota/Scion will offer options on future models. But no regrets so far. Very fun car to drive at a very affordable price. A lot of car for not a lot of money and a worthy successor to the decades-old favorite, Celica.

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  Nice ride for the money - 2005 Scion TC
  By Andrew - October 22 - 4:46 pm

  This car has more than I expected. The standard options and power are fantastic! I would have expected somewhat better gas mileage, but the trade off for more power is ok.

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  TC is OK - 2006 Scion TC
  By Joseph T - October 17 - 8:03 pm

  For the price, i have been very happy. I love the fact (trust) that the engine is based on the existing long tested 4cyl. I believe it could use a little more power, but the supercharger is an option. The interior design is better than some cars Ive seen at much higher prices. Overall, been driving this for 2 months and could not be happier. It was a good buying experience and even better ownership experience. Definetly recommending this model