2007 Scion tC [ 2009 , 2008 ]

MSRP: $15,000 - $17,200
Invoice: $14,250 - $16,340
MPG: 23 City / 30 Hwy
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U.S.News Scores
Overall:8.6
Performance:7.4
Exterior:8.2
Interior:7.5
Safety:8.1
Reliability:9.3
Pros
  • Modern, sporty design
  • More powerful engine than most competitors
  • Better than average value within its class
Cons
  • Limited space for rear passengers

Scion tC

Overall Score - 8.6 (Very Good)

The tC provides sporty design, acceleration and handling for an affordable price. If you're in the market for an affordable small car, you should also consider the 2007 Honda Fit or the 2007 Honda Civic Hybrid.

The 2007 Scion tC is as sporty as you'll find in this price range, and is praised for its quick, stable ride and its upscale design and features. "For shoppers desiring a fun and affordable sport coupe or hatchback, the tC is certainly worth taking a look at," explains Edmunds. Designed to be a "blank canvas" for adding options, even the base exterior and interior finishes impressed reviewers. The Washington Post calls the 2007 Scion tC "a compact, fuel-efficient hot rod," with a low starting price, loaded with standard equipment, and good looks.

Reviewers find other things to love besides looks. As Cars.com describes, "the tC gets more appealing after a few days of driving." Consumer Guide agrees, rating the 2007 Scion tC as a "Best Buy".

Reviewers agree the tC comes at a great price with or without extra options, and Kelley Blue Book predicts an "excellent resale value," partially based on the reputation of parent company Toyota. IntelliChoice gives the 2007 Scion tC a rating of "better than average" based on the total cost of ownership. Edmunds sums up auto writers' popular opinion by noting, "with its bargain price tag and many standard features, the 2007 Scion tC is one of the best choices around for a budget-friendly sport coupe or hatchback ... we think it's a better choice than the Ford Focus or any of General Motors' coupes."

tC Performance - 7.4 (Good)

The 2007 Scion tC aced most reviewers' test drives, providing an excellent ride for its size and class. Left with an impression of sharp handling and steering, quick brakes and precise cornering, many reviewers concluded that the tC is an overall fun drive. continue

tC Exterior - 8.2 (Very Good)

Almost all reviews feature the words "blank canvas" to describe the 2007 Scion tC coupe hatchback, but don't use the word "blank" to mean lack of quality -- the popular opinion is that the tC's canvas is a great launching pad. In the words of About.com, "The whole effect is very modern, sleek and clean, but tasteful and not flashy." continue

tC Interior - 7.5 (Good)

A majority of reviewers enjoy the 2007 Scion tC's interior design and upscale features, causing Edmunds to say, "you'll have a hard time believing you're in an economy car." However, these same reviews note that the five-seater's compact nature could make riding in the rear seats a squeeze. continue

tC Safety - 8.1 (Very Good)

Many reviewers are confident in the tC's capabilities to avoid an accident and protect in the event of one. In fact, the tC scores well in government crash tests. continue

tC Reliability - 9.3 (Excellent)

The 2007 Scion tC reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The tC features a three-year or 36,000-mile basic warranty. continue

Review Last Updated: 5/2/08