“Scion tC's are a wonderful, affordable car for someone who wants a “sporty” look and feel without the price tag. They're easily repaired and overall low maintenance. The stock sound systems are much better than most. The only downside is the lack of body repairs, when needed, as the Scion brand has been discontinued in 2016.”
Scion tC: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Scion tC is a sporty two-door coupe with a roomy hatchback-style cargo area, a usable rear seat, and generous standard equipment. It is known for pairing bold looks with more everyday usefulness than many sporty coupes.
Across both generations, the tC stayed focused on giving everyday drivers style and useful features without becoming a hard-edged performance car. Its panoramic glass roof, roomy cargo area, and Toyota-based mechanical simplicity were central to its appeal. Later updates sharpened the design and driving feel, but the basic formula remained intact through its final year in 2016.
Strengths
- The hatchback-style cargo area gives the tC more everyday carrying room than its coupe shape suggests.
- The rear seat is usable enough to make carrying friends more realistic than in many sporty two-doors.
- The panoramic glass roof and long standard-feature list help even the regular tC feel well equipped.
- Its Toyota-based mechanical layout keeps the underlying formula straightforward rather than exotic or complicated.
- The tC delivers sporty styling without demanding the compromises of a track-focused performance car.
Who it's for
The tC fits someone who wants a sporty-looking used car but still needs space for friends, groceries, or weekend gear. It makes the most sense for a daily driver who values distinctive styling and built-in features more than serious track performance.
Scion tC lineup
The Base tC is the heart of the lineup, with the well-equipped, practical character that defined the model. Pick it if you want the core tC experience without paying extra for a limited-edition look. The recurring Release Series models added factory styling and, in some years, suspension or convenience upgrades; the Release Series 10.0 served as the final special edition in 2016. Short-lived versions such as the 2014 Monogram Series leaned more upscale, while the earlier Spec model offered a lower-content take on the same basic car.
Scion tC generations
From 2009 to 2016, the tC spans two generations. The current 2nd Generation arrived for 2011, following the 1st Generation (2005–2010).
2nd Generation (2011–2016)
The second-generation tC brought a larger 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, six-speed transmissions, a wider and lower chassis, and added safety equipment. A 2014 refresh revised the styling, touchscreen system, cabin materials, and driving feel.
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2016Trim changes
The limited Release Series 10.0 arrives for the tC’s final year. A 7-inch touchscreen, push-button start, and a rear wiper become standard.
2015Trim changes
The limited Release Series 9.0 arrives with a lowered stance and body kit. Automatic models gain steering-wheel paddle shifters.
2014Mid-cycle update
Refreshed front and rear styling, new LED taillights, a standard touchscreen, upgraded cabin materials, and revised steering, suspension, and automatic-transmission tuning.
2013Trim changes
The limited Release Series 8.0 arrives with a body kit and performance-oriented hardware. The regular lineup is largely unchanged.
2012Trim changes
The limited Release Series 7.0 arrives. The standard audio system gains Bluetooth calling and streaming plus HD Radio.
2011New generation
Fully redesigned with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, six-speed transmissions, a wider and lower chassis, larger brakes, and more standard safety equipment.
1st Generation (2005–2010)
The original tC paired a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with a panoramic glass roof and a generous standard-equipment list. The 2009 and 2010 models covered here retain the styling and equipment introduced by the 2008 refresh.
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2010Trim changes
The limited Release Series 6.0 arrives. Otherwise, the regular tC carries over for its final year before the redesign.
2009Trim changes
The lower-content Spec version leaves the lineup. The standard tC carries over with the 2008 styling and equipment updates.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Scion tC.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Scion tC a coupe or a hatchback?
It is a two-door coupe with a hatch-style rear opening. That layout gives the tC a sportier shape while making its cargo area easier to use than a conventional coupe trunk.
Does the Scion tC come as a hybrid?
No. The tC uses a gas four-cylinder engine. First-generation cars have a 2.4-liter engine, while the redesigned second generation uses a 2.5-liter engine.
Does the Scion tC have all-wheel drive?
No. The Scion tC is front-wheel drive. There was no all-wheel-drive version in the lineup.
What is the Scion tC known for?
The tC is known for combining sporty coupe styling with useful everyday features. Its panoramic glass roof, roomy hatch-style cargo area, folding rear seat, and Toyota-based mechanical layout are central to its appeal.
Is the Scion tC practical enough for daily driving?
Yes, if a two-door layout works for you. The tC seats five, has a reclining and folding rear seat, and offers useful hatch-style cargo space. Rear-seat access is less convenient than in a four-door car.
How do the first- and second-generation Scion tC differ?
The second generation arrived for 2011 with a larger 2.5-liter engine, six-speed transmissions, bigger brakes, 18-inch wheels, and added safety equipment. The first generation ran through 2010 and used a 2.4-liter engine with 161 hp in its final year.
Is the Scion tC still being made?
No. The tC ended after the 2016 model year, with production stopping in August 2016. Release Series 10.0 served as its final factory special edition.
Scion tC Reviews
What owners are saying about the Scion tC.
4.3
Scion tC
(123 reviews)
“The front seat is very uncomfortable and it is hard to get in and out of car. I have actually been treated by a Chiropractor several times and have changed the way I get in and out of the car completely. It would be nice to have a better quality seat.....it is too low....”
“I loved the new Scion tC from the moment I sat in the driver's seat. Once I took it for a test drive, I knew I was not leaving the lot without it.”
“My daughter purchased an early version of the tC. I've driven it several times and I thought it was a great little car. I would have bought the FR-S but wanted something with a more torque and a bit more room. If a turbo version of the FR-S had been offered, I would have chosen it over the tC, despite the extra cost.”
“I do not know as of right now have not had the car that long yet give me another 6 month I'll be able to let you know something thanks”
“It is a previous-cycle vehicle with proven technology but is dated in every regard.”