Though the boxy xB is the image leader, the tC is as upscale as Scion goes. Designed to serve the needs of the personal-coupe market so well attended by the Honda Civic, Saturn ION and Chevrolet Cobalt, the tC offers more space and a richer ride than some of those competitors, and packs it all into a vehicle with a smaller footprint. The stylish little tC is more car than its diminutive size would suggest.
The styling is subdued, especially compared to the standout xA and xB four-doors, but the tC isn’t boring by any stretch. Look closer and you’ll see intricate details in the headlight units and gentle side sculpting. The basic design is a seven-eighths scale interpretation of the long-hood, short-tail proportions of a classic sports car. The tC’s squared-off hood is comparatively stubby, but still makes up a good chunk of its length. A standard double-paned moonroof opens up most of the roof area to the sky and makes the cabin feel more spacious.
Inside, it’s surprisingly roomy. Although it’s only a two-door, the tC has a generous back seat with plenty of legroom. Driving position is somewhat legs-out and the tC sits low, so drivers used to riding high in an SUV may find it a bit constrained at first. However, there’s plenty of legroom and elbow room. The console includes a handy cubby hole for swallowing loose items. A measure of security is provided for the sound system as well, in the form of a cover panel that can be folded down to hide the stereo controls. The amenities are surprising, from the small things like the sun visors with extenders to the available iPod-compatible Pioneer sound system. Cruise control, a first aid kit and keyless entry are standard equipment. Side airbags are available. The tC may be relatively inexpensive, but it’s not a stripped-out entry-level car.
Will it really seat four, you ask? We trusted the Scion’s back-seat space enough to put our in-laws back there for a trip to dinner. There were no complaints...about the car, at least. A twelve cubic-foot cargo area hides under the yawning hatchback, as well.
Equipped with the optional four-speed automatic transmission, the tC is cheerful around town. Power from the relatively big-bore 2.4 liter four-cylinder engine is available immediately, and it isn’t buzzy or noisy. Variable valve timing broadens the torque curve while keeping fuel economy respectable. The standard five-speed manual ups the sport ante a little bit with faster responses and greater control over gearing, naturally. The tC is enjoyable with either gearbox installed, however.
The strut-front, wishbone-rear suspension is compliant enough to deal with potholed city streets, but provides plenty of feedback when cornering as well. The relatively wide stance and light, stiff body structure lend themselves well to feats of handling. Steering is responsive, and anti-lock brakes are standard. In stock form the tC is surprisingly well planted; enthusiasts who intend to go for more race-ready performance wheels and tires should find that the Scion responds well to tuning. With that in mind, Scion offers a Spec Package tC with plain steel wheels and limited options, that’s ready for modifying.
If cars were sold in department stores, you’d likely find the tC in the "Petite Sophisticates" section. That isn’t to say that all of the guys out there who have issues about being seen in a "chick car" should stay away, of course. Like the rest of the Scion lineup, the tC is a blank canvas upon which the owner is all but expected to imprint his or her personality. With surprisingly elegant style, excellent and entertaining road manners and versatile performance, the tC makes a good starting point. Pricing starts at $17,000. Tack on the automatic transmission, XM satellite radio and a security system, as with our test car, and you’ll get a sexy little $18,685 commuter that proves frugal doesn’t have to be boring.
by Chris Jackson
www.car-data.com
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