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Scion tC Review
When Scion debuted in the North American market, the company began with two models taken from existing Toyota models in Japan. The goal was to aim a new brand at a youth-oriented market. With the tC's arrival in 2005, it was evident that Toyota was hoping to win back fans of the discontinued MR2 and Celica models. The tC is the first Scion model to be designed exclusively for the Scion marque, and with stylish looks, a healthy dose of power, and a strong set of features, it looks as though Toyota has succeeded again in deciphering what it is consumers are looking for in their cars.
See also the main fact sheets for the Scion tC.
High Points
- Surprisingly powerful engine
- Quality built interior
- Stylish design
Low Points
- Interior headroom a bit limiting
- Interior accents too gaudy for older folks
Performance and Handling
Gas Mileage
The FuelEconomy.gov website has the following city/highway numbers available for the Scion tC:
In a Compact Car category on Autos.com populated by models like the Toyota Prius and Honda Insight, these numbers place the tC quite low amongst its peers for fuel efficiency.
Safety
Reliability and Maintenance
Scion, the recently introduced Toyota brand intended for a younger market, is itself a very young company, and the tC debuted only a year ago. Reliability information for it is therefore not yet available. However, if Scion is able to maintain the same kind of quality that Toyota has come to represent, the future is bright for tC owners.
Interior and Comforts
Exterior
Styles and Options
One of Scion's strongest selling points is customizability. As such, the tC comes in a single trim with a ton of standard features and customizable options. The tC's engine is an impressive 4-cylinder with 160hp, powering a 5-speed manual transmission; an optional 4-speed automatic is also available. Other standards include 17" wheels, cloth interior and trims, express sunroof, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD stereo with MP3 capability, and power locks, windows, and mirrors.
Optional items include leather seating, leather accents for the steering wheel and shift knob, mud flaps, body colored fender flares, cargo net, and a stereo upgrade.
Main Competitors
External Links
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