2008 Scion tC [ 2009 , 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 39 tC reviews and test drives.
Scion tC - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Scion tC ranks 3 out of 29 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 39 published reviews and test drives of the Scion tC, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The tC provides sporty performance and design for an affordable price. If you're in the market for an affordable small car, you should also consider the Honda Fit or the Honda Civic.
Our analysis shows that the 2008 Scion tC's best qualities are sportiness, versatility and upscale features and design, all at a hard-to-beat price. Plus the tC's one-up on its class is the ability to customize its models -- a trademark of the Scion brand. For 2008, Scion made some pre-customization changes to the tC's design. The coupe now has a new front grille and sleeker taillights, in addition to cabin enhancements like new upholstery and a standard auxiliary audio input jack.
The 2008 tC is a two-door coupe available in one trim.
- "The 2008 Scion tC delivers on the promise of stylish and sporty transportation at affordable prices." -- New Car Test Drive
- "The tC isn't a real sporty coupe like the old Toyota Celica was, but it does offer a lot of style for relatively little money and comes with standard anti-lock brakes, power windows, and driver's knee airbag." -- Car and Driver
- "The tC coupe is the sportiest model in Toyota's youth-oriented Scion line and a bargain among small, sporty cars. It offers style, lively performance, and a versatile interior at a great price." -- Forbes
- "One of the best values we've seen…tC offers strong audio options and decent performance, but leg- and headroom are limited for taller people." -- CNET
tC Performance - 7.6 (Good)
Although a few reviews say the tC isn't as sharp as some competitors, most describe the car as a sweet ride for its size and class. According to Car and Driver, "It's reasonably quick but not so much that you'll fear for your life." Continue with our full Performance Review for a clearer picture of the tC's performance capabilities. continue
tC Exterior - 7.9 (Good)
The Scion tC gets good scores for its exterior styling, thanks to its compact, sporty and stylish look. For 2008, Scion revised the two-door tC's front and rear end with a different grille and modified taillights. Check out the Scion tC Photo Gallery to see images of those changes, or continue with our full Exterior Review to read about Scion's "blank canvas" design philosophy. continue
tC Interior - 7.5 (Good)
Some say the 2008 tC's cabin is roomy and well-assembled. Motor Trend comments, "The interior affords surprising luxury and space for a coupe. Legroom and headroom approach those of a Camry Solara, despite the tC's shorter length and height." But several reviewers side with CNET, which notes, "we had to recline the front seats slightly to have adequate headroom. What really puzzled us, though, was the lack of front legroom, especially for the driver." Check out the Scion tC Photo Gallery to survey the available legroom, or continue with our full Interior Review for information on the tC's additional interior amenities. continue
tC Safety - 9.5 (Excellent)
The Scion tC does very well in government crash tests, and has an extensive list of standard safety equipment for the class. Continue with our full Safety Review for a complete account of the tC's standard and optional safety equipment. continue
tC Reliability - NA
All Scions have a three-year or 36,000-mile basic warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review to for more information on Scion warranties. continue