2007 Scion tC Review
The Scion tC is Toyota’s latest edition to its youth-oriented brand, first introduced for the 2005 model year. Intended as the heir apparent to the Celica, the tC is a low-priced sports coupe. It hasn’t changed much since its debut, but the 2006 model received steering-wheel mounted audio controls. In 2005, the tC was named J.D. Power’s “Highest Ranked Sporty Car in Initial Quality.”
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
Aimed primarily at the first-time buyer, the Scion tC offers a balance of price, performance, features and fun. Surprisingly, the initial quality rating were low for a new car from the Toyota stable, but high safety scores and low gas consumption makes the tC a serious player in the economy market, well worth a test drive.
What’s New For 2007:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power and Associates gives the tC only two and a half out of five stars in initial quality. However, it has had very few reported problems since its inception, and all of them are related to the 2005 model. Issues include loose air conditioning vents, odorous exhaust, rear axle noise, and misaligned steering. The 2005-06 tCs have been recalled twice: Once for weak airbags and again for brittle glass wind deflectors. Expect average quality. The standard warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The tC scored strongly in government crash tests, earning four and a half out of five stars in frontal impact tests, and four stars in side collisions. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has no data available yet. Standard safety equipment ion the tC includes anti-lock brakes, driver’s knee airbag, and a first aid kit. Side airbags are optional.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Surprising amount of standard features
+ Simple pricing scheme
+ Roomy interior
Cons
– Boring Toyota exterior
– No traction or stability control
– Could deliver better gas mileage
Head-To-Head Competition:
The tC fills in an odd niche in the auto world: A compact, economical sports car. And it’s a niche that it fills quite well — but there are other options out there, depending on what you’re going for. If you want more fuel efficiency, the MINI Cooper, at about $2,000 more, also gets about ten more miles to the gallon, but at the cost of 40 horsepower. If you want more power, the Honda Civic Si, a favorite among enthusiasts, delivers for around $4,000 more than the tC. The Civic has a six-speed compared to the tC’s five speed, and delivers 36 more horses without compromising gas mileage. It also features a standard moonroof, which other competitors lack. You might also consider the Pontiac G6, which has more established reliability, but it costs about $2,000 more, and is matched or beaten by the tC on every other count.
What Others Are Saying:
“One of the best values we’ve seen, the 2006 Scion tC offers strong audio options and decent performance, but leg- and headroom are limited for taller people.” – C|Net
“However, don’t be fooled into thinking that Scion has carved itself a niche among young consumers by relying solely on hype or clever marketing. The cars are undeniably unique and include many standard features that other vehicles in this price range only offer as options, if at all.” – Forbes
“This new Scion gives you your money’s worth and then some. The tC is a cool ride that will make any first time car buyer feel good about their choice long after that new car smell wears off.” – The Family Car
Read more about the 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix at the Scion manufacturer web site.
