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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  Great Car - 2006 Scion TC
  By tony - March 23 - 5:26 pm

  The Scion tC is a better Toyota Celica. I added leather seats and a quick shifter and its the best new car I ever had, over the Mazda RX-7, Celica GTS, and Camaro Z28.

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  Chaz was beyond great - 2016 Scion TC
  By Zach Henry - March 23 - 5:23 am

  I came to Charles maund toyota to possibly lease or purchase a car. Not only did i leave with a car but left with a future salesman for my friends and family. You can bet i will be back as well as my family and all my friends. BUY from CHAZZZZZZ

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  GREAT CAR++++++ - 2005 Scion TC
  By Dave - March 22 - 3:20 pm

  You can see by my milage I drive a lot and love this car. I dont know how Edmunds.com only averaged 21.6 mpg in it, I drive hard and my worst tank was 26.5! I get 29-30 communting to work & 30-33 on trips. The only change that I would like to see would be to add a 6-speed, it needs another clog at freeway speeds.

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  Nice Car - 2006 Scion TC
  By rissa223 - March 19 - 3:13 pm

  I really enjoy the Scion tC. I have had it for six months and bought it for my teenage daughter originally. Now, were talking about buying her another one, because I just cant give it up. We were leasing an Infiniti G35, and I would have never dreamed that I would like something so much for less than $20,000 (and that was after adding some stuff like a TRD muffler, spoiler, rear, side-curtain airbags, and all-weather mats). It was time to return the G35 and get something else, but I think Ill just stick with the tC. Its a lot of fun. The only drawback is the dashboard interior - it looks cheap, like plastic. I have not had any problems with rattling or noise like I have read sometimes. This car is lots of fun.

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  Rattles and Rattles but Good Reliability - 2007 Scion TC
  By Tib - March 17 - 6:53 am

  This car is a poorly made car but reliable as all can be. After the first month my radio door started squeaking. The first day that it was below 25 degrees you could hear what sounds to be a bolt snapping against the windshield...3 warranty claims later and still does it. The drivers mirror vibrated like you wouldnt believe so that was replaced under warranty. The trunk rattles so much it will make you go mad. The gears are too small, with a different 5th gear this car would easily get 40+mpg. At 70mph in fifth Im at 3700rpm. I wouldnt recommend this car to anyone with my experience without corrections to these areas.

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  Great Looks, Great Value! - 2006 Scion TC
  By martin - March 4 - 10:20 pm

  My tC replaced an 03 Lexus GS 300 and so far has done so without regret. Its standard equipment package, including the more than adequate 160 hp, 163 lb.-ft. 2.4L VVTI engine leaves little room for any "wish you hads" while enjoying the drive. The tCs styling separates the car from its competitors by offering clean lines and a smart simplicity that turns heads. Other than getting slightly bellow "excellent" fuel economy and a sound system thats so poor its laughable the Scion tC provided me great value for my dollar as well as that warm feeling we all get when driving something that looks as good as it gets. Do the research and test drives with its competition and youll agree.

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  My Scion tC - 2006 Scion TC
  By clamjellytoast - March 4 - 2:30 am

  I love my Scion. It handles beautifully. Its gas mileage is great. It has a roomy interior for me in front, and for my friends in back. I drive a lot, and I always look forward to time on the highway.

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  Still in Love - 2006 Scion TC
  By Wendi - February 25 - 9:03 pm

  Even after 15 months of ownership, this car never fails to please. How many cars are this versatile, inexpensive, fun to drive, and gorgeous to look at? The tC is both quick and fuel efficient (I get 28 mpg city). It handles beautifully (even in snow) and is comfortable - my kids love the reclining back seats! With the seats down, the tC functions like a truck, Ive hauled an 8 ft. Christmas tree, surfboards, bicycles, you name it! Theres plenty of leg room, and the double glass roof visually expands the interior. This car delivers performance, practicality, and style equal to the snob-appeal brands at almost half the price. Ive driven everything from a Mercedes to an RX-7 and this car tops them all.

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  Great Car - 2006 Scion TC
  By Halewafa - February 25 - 5:53 pm

  I just got this car a couple of days ago and all I can say is WOW. This car is amazing, it comes with so many things that you wouldnt expect from a $17,000 car. I would recommend this car to anyone!

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  wow - 2005 Scion TC
  By 40 - February 22 - 10:00 am

  One of the best cars Ive seen in years. Im so excited to own my own.