2013 Scion tC: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2013 Scion tC is mostly a carryover, with the limited-production Release Series 8.0 as the headline change. It continues the previous special-edition slot under a new name and adds distinctive bodywork, TRD suspension and exhaust hardware, and red cabin accents.
About the 2013 Scion tC
2nd generation (2011-2016), third year and final pre-refresh model before the 2014 styling and chassis update.
Scion sold the tC as a sporty five-seat coupe that mixed bold styling with everyday usefulness. It stood out for giving buyers a panoramic glass roof, strong standard audio features, a roomy rear seat, and hatchback cargo flexibility in a car that still looked and felt like a coupe. The tC’s core appeal was style, value, and daily drivability rather than the sharper, more single-purpose feel of a pure sports car.
The regular tC remains a sporty five-seat coupe with everyday-friendly touches such as a large hatch, a reclining fold-flat rear seat, and a panoramic glass roof. Its 180-hp four-cylinder and six-speed manual or automatic carry over, while Release Series 8.0 stands apart with a Five Axis-inspired body kit, TRD lowering springs, a center-exit TRD exhaust, and an individually numbered cabin badge.
What changed, by category
2013 Scion tC specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 23 mpg | 23 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 31 mpg | 31 mpg |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 173 lb-ft | 173 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 14.7 cu-ft | 14.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 34.6 in | 34.6 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Remote Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2013 Scion tC?
The biggest change is Release Series 8.0, a limited-production special edition with a Five Axis-inspired body kit, TRD lowering springs, a center-exit TRD exhaust, red interior stitching, and a numbered badge.
Is the regular 2013 Scion tC different from the 2012 model?
No major changes affect the regular 2013 tC. Its 2.5-liter engine, six-speed transmissions, basic styling, safety equipment, and chassis carry over from 2012.
Did the 2013 Scion tC get a new engine?
No, the 2013 tC keeps its 180-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic. Release Series 8.0 adds a TRD exhaust but not a different engine.
What makes the 2013 tC Release Series 8.0 different?
Release Series 8.0 has unique bodywork, TRD lowering springs, a center-exit TRD exhaust, red-stitched cabin trim, and an individually numbered badge. It is a factory special edition rather than a full redesign or a higher-powered model.
Is the 2013 Scion tC worth considering over the 2012?
The 2013 is most compelling if you want the Release Series 8.0 styling and TRD hardware or a car fitted with the BeSpoke Premium stereo. Otherwise, the regular 2012 and 2013 models are very similar.