Scion, a division of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., is obsessed with North American youth...literally.
Started less than a decade ago in 2003, Scion dared to be different from the start with no-haggle pricing and higher-mileage, four-cylinder models with limited trim levels, but a potpourri of dealer-available add-on accessories. Pricing and body dimensions are kept tiny to appeal to a monetarily-limited Generation Y (those born between 1977-1987) crowd vowing never to set foot or any other anatomy part inside the dreaded, three-row minivan once the domain of their parental units. Desiring to reach web-savvy clientele, Scion directs much of its advertising and marketing virally online and at participatory, experiential events. While Gen Y is the target demographic, Scion also draws from those with a touch of grey. The brand remained a United States phenomenon until 2010 when Scion opened its doors in Oh Canada.
Currently, four 2012 models are offered. The most recognizable may be the urban-intended xB with a silhouette resembling a box on wheels. The 'hip-to be square" idea caught on, so much so that rivals soon began serving up their own incarnations (think Kia Soul and Nissan Cube). Joining xB in the 2012 lineup are the five-door xD compact wagon, the iQ two-seat mini car and this week's tester, the tC three-door hatchback. Later in 2012, Scion debuts its first rear-drive effort, the FR-S sports coupe shown as a concept vehicle this past spring at the New York Auto Show.
First debuting in the 2005 model year, tC saw a complete second-generation makeover in 2011. Scion's mission statement promises timely makeovers and new model introductions at a quicker pace than the industry norm. For those seasoned enough to remember, tC bears a family resemblance to the Toyota Celica of yesteryear. The tC is the least polarizing of the Scion lot choosing the most aerodynamic structure rather than a square peg.
Little changes for the front-wheel-drive tC from the 2011 redo save for an upgraded audio sound system boasting Bluetooth audio streaming and HD radio capacity. The most notable 2012 update is a new limited-edition (only 2,200) Release Series 7.0 model sporting bright, high-voltage yellow exterior paint, upgraded sound system and push-button start.
All tCs come well equipped with moon roofs; cruise control; air conditioning; power locks, windows, doors; compact disc player and rear defroster. The nice compliment of air bags include dual front, seat mounted, knee and side curtain. One of the few choices shoppers need to ponder is six-speed manual versus a six-speed automatic transmission. Manual editions start at 18,575. Add $1,000 for automatic. Our tC tester with automatic transmission had a bottom line of $19,995 including destination charge. Pricing for a screaming yellow Release Series 7.0 edition starts at $20,905 and $21,905 when equipped with automatic transmission.
A plethora of tC add on accessories can be found at scion.com including lower body graphics ($109), illuminated door sills ($375) and carbon fiber B pillar appliqué ($89) just to name a few. Approximately 150 are available.
The sole powertrain is a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder delivering a class-impressive 180 horsepower, 19 better than the first-generation. Mated with six-speed automatic transmission, expect 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, strictly average for the class as more compact entries come online eyeing the coveted 40 mpg highway. Identical fuel estimates are found with six-speed manual. The fuel tank holds 14.5 gallons of regular unleaded fuel.
The sloping, 45-degree angle hatch is without a handy rain wiper, something Scion could easily incorporate before a next-generation makeover. Static rear side windows with an arrowhead shape point directly to a thick, rear "C" pillar. This, coupled with narrow door windows, enhances blind spots. Side view mirrors smartly incorporate secondary blinker bands alerting other drivers of your next potential move. Doors, with strap-like handles, swing out wide when entering and posses a wider length than sedan-type designs. Narrow headlights gently reach around to side fenders flanking a small grille with prominent 'S' shaped logo.
The thick, three-spoke, manually operating tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel incorporates a flat bottom, something found in competitive racing cars. Also on board are secondary volume and station pre-set toggle buttons (left side) and a cruise control appendage at 5 o'clock. A power mirror touch pad is on the far left dashboard while power window and lock operation adorn both doors, each sporting a long, thick grab bar.
The dashboard's center console skews towards the driver. The sound system, with a myriad of small preset buttons and tiny type, is on top. More user friendly are the ventilation controls below, with three large, easy-to-grab dials controlling fan speed, direction and single-zone temperature. Below are plug-in auxiliary and USB ports for portable electronic gear. Soft-touch materials are noticeably absent; something needed to keep up with the competition. Doors include molded beverage holders. Two additional in-line varieties are positioned between the front bucket seats.
The tC's instrument cluster features an arched bottom with two, deep-set, three-quarter-circled analog gauges with an analog fuel gauge in between. The ignition cylinder is found on the right-side steering column.
Seats rest relatively close to the ground with front sport buckets aggressively contorting around the tush Cloth materials comes standard. Row two seatbacks fold semi flat onto seating cushions creating a larger cargo region. Historically, Toyota's tilt-and-slide passenger-side seat eases second-row entry. Scion tC carries forward the tradition. Once in back, head and leg room are surprisingly adequate for those 6-feet and shorter. With seats prone, a limited 14.7 cubic feet of cargo space is available. A temporary spare situates under the cargo floor.
While no current Scion model offers a gas-electric hybrid engine, it's not a stretch to envision future versions with one since parent company Toyota has earned leader status, building and perfection the mileage-extending technology for more than a decade. Introduced in 2010, Honda's compact, two-seat CR-Z ($19,545) is powered by a 'mild' gas-electric hybrid engine providing fuel economy of 35 mpg city and 30 highway.
During its initial introduction in 2004, tC experienced less directed competition than today. It stood out as the coupe de-jour. Now, tC must contend with Hyundai's all-new 2012 compact, four-cylinder sporty Veloster (138 horsepower, $17,300 starting price) which includes a handy rear door only on the passenger side for easier access to the back row. Honda's aforementioned CR-Z and Nissan's funky, recently released four-cylinder Juke ($19,570) are two more competitors.
While tC has many eye-appealing nuances, it's a sporty car, not a sports car in the genre of the venerable Corvette. Driving dynamics take a back seat to attractive pricing and dare-to-be-different exteriors. It's certainly competent around town, but won't take your breath away. Opting for the manual transmission provides more driver put and superior acceleration.
Powertrain coverage is good for five years or 60,000 miles. Scion dealers get paired with Toyota franchises throughout Chicago and from sea to shining sea.
2012 Scion tCWheelbase: 106.3 inches
Overall length: 174.0 inches
Overall height: 55.7 inches
Overall width: 70.7 inches
Price as tested: $19,995
Engine: inline four-cylinder
Horsepower: 180
Fuel economy: 23 mpg city, 31 mpg highway
Curb weight: 3,060 pounds
Assembly: Tsutsumi, Japan