Overview & Reviews

Scion is one of the youngest brands on the market -- which seems appropriate given that it's targeted at a very youthful demographic. Scion has quickly found a home in the hearts of buyers seeking its winning blend of value and style. The frosting on this cake is that Scion is part of the Toyota family, offering all the quality and reliability you'd expect from a marque with its parentage.

When Toyota realized early in the 21st century that it was losing market share in the younger demographic due to a stodgy image, the company took a chance and decided to spin off a new brand called Scion (its name means "descendant" or "heir to"). The first Scions, the xA and xB models, were introduced for the 2004 model year. These edgy little cruisers were first available only in the California market; after a staggered rollout, Scion vehicles became available nationwide.

Both the xA and xB were immediate hits, snapped up by young (or young at heart) buyers looking for high-quality, fun and affordable wheels. The boxy yet funky styling of the Scions provided a lot of passenger and cargo room for the cars' small footprints, making them ideal choices for campus and urban residents alike. They also coddled the youth market with flashy sound systems; Scion's stereos are among the best in the economy-car segment.

The following year, the Scion brood grew to include the tC. This compact but sporty coupe offered more performance relative to its older siblings, thanks largely to a more powerful engine. The xA has since been replaced by the xD, which carries on the quirky and customizable spirit of its predecessor. By 2012, Scion had introduced the tiny iQ city car and the sporty FR-S sport coupe.

In the interest of keeping things simple for buyers, Scions typically come in only one trim level. However, buyers have the option of customizing their rides with a host of dealership-provided accessories, such as a subwoofer, body kits and custom exhausts. Scion also offers no-haggle pricing wherein buyers pay the list (window sticker) price, thus streamlining the negotiation process.

So far, a simple and well-equipped model lineup, no-haggle pricing and a variety of dealer-added options have combined to make the Scion brand popular with American consumers. The economy car segment isn't typically the first place you'd look for stylish, fun-to-drive vehicles, but Scion has changed all that by offering cars rich with a seductive exuberance that belies their modest pricing.

User Reviews:

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  Scion xB 2009 - 2009 Scion XB
  By sbs56 - October 2 - 12:43 am

  Very pleased with my xB - averaging 28+ mpg - 50/50 around town & highway driving (what is "so-so" about that?) - Im sure it will average 30+ mpg on a long (highway) trip. Practical and fun to drive - 2.4L has plenty of pep. Interior is sparse but functional. I like the 2008+ body style - I receive a lot of compliments and there is plenty of room inside. I dont find the center mount gauges distracting and the steering wheel position is just fine. I find it interesting that "professional" reviewers generally knock the car yet actual owners love it.

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  As Reliable and Economical as can be - 2009 Scion XD
  By Stutz 1 - October 1 - 9:58 am

  A dream to park, Usually average $20-25 to fill up tank! Bought car used with 40,000 miles and have never had any problems. Car has 105000 miles now. If you are over 6 tall, pick another vehicle

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  Great value for your money - looking for a first car? - 2008 Scion TC
  By iron112 - September 28 - 8:52 pm

  The TC was my first car. The TC offers outstanding value for the price. Youd end up paying 3-4k more in other cars for the same features that are present in the TC - all with Toyota reliability. This car is more about a balance of features rather than pure muscle. Despite its modest engine, it handles well. As a bonus, the TC was made for modders. If youre a modding junkie, and have the money, the TC is your car. Drawbacks - its underpowered - it has a Camry engine. Its peppy in the lower RPMs, but doesnt have true muscle. Its rear door is a pain. The gas mileage is somewhat lacking for a 4 cylinder. But if you can look past these negatives, then the TC is for you.

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  Very Decent - 2009 Scion TC
  By E.D - September 24 - 7:13 pm

  So this is my first new car I bought. very happy with it. Great for one person. Drive is smooth, and no problems thus far. Good pick up. Basic model features are great. Moonroof/sunroof is awesome,I love it. The only this is that its a little rattly at times. I put a spoiler on the car, so I just found out I cant put a rack on the back, but that is a minor issue. If you are looking for a small, fun, sporty, nice looky car with a smooth ride, this is perfect for you.

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  Great Car So Far - 2007 Scion TC
  By Donald Henson - September 24 - 12:06 am

  I bought the car Febuary 8, 2007 and as of today no problems, it is very fun to drive, easy to clean, and really comfortable. If you are thinking about purchasing one then test drive it and do it. They really are perfect cars for kids, I am 19 and financed it all on my own, with $2000 down and a credit score of 720. The payments are actually very cheap. Also has a great warranty, so far I love my tC.

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  Utility Defined - 2006 Scion XB
  By usedtowearabox - September 21 - 6:50 am

  I know that Scion is marketed toward youngsters, but this "box" is too good to pass up. It has excellent fuel economy and handling, and beaucoup room, plus Toyota fit, finish, and reliability. It takes curves like a slot car. all for a price less than one would pay for a bone stock Civic or a loaded Kia. Yes, there are lots of options for the kids, but they are mainly useless gimicks and shiny trinkets. All you need (and more) comes standard: air comditioning, power everything, keyless entry, a 160 watt Pioneer stereo (so I can listen to Click and Clack at a volume that will bring down low flying Aircraft), stability and traction control. I am very very pleased with it, mine gets 34 mpg in mixed driving.

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  Good, reliable, toyota product, but a little boring - 2005 Scion TC
  By krisinindy - September 21 - 3:47 am

  Great car overall, reliable, cost effective, minimal maintenence costs.

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  Love This Car - 2004 Scion xA
  By jenamo1 - September 19 - 10:00 am

  Best buy you can ask for. Looked for a car for over two years and discovered Scion while looking at a Toyota. The "as is" pricing policy was such a pleasant experience compared to most dealers I visited. The car drives very smoothly, comes with great options, looks amazing, and gets unbelievable gas milage and insurance rates. Be prepared to receive glances and questions everywhere you go.

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  very impressed - 2004 Scion XB
  By mrlaker1 - September 19 - 10:00 am

  i sell other makes of cars and i bought this one because of its value. its just a great car for the money

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  ok car - 2005 Scion TC
  By dsl - September 16 - 5:03 am

  I bought this car when it first came out towards the end of 04. So far no engine problems. But the brakes squeaks a lot on reverse. Also, the liftback rattles from time to time. Radio cover also squeaks constantly. I took it back to the dealer, they tried to fix it but the problems are still there.