The front-wheel-drive 2014 Scion tC comes in one trim level from the factory. Buyers can choose to equip it with either a 6-speed manual or a new 6-speed sequential sport automatic transmission, which cuts shift times in half over the previous unit, and includes Dynamic Rev Management, which blips the throttle on downshifts.
Power for the tC comes from a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine with dual variable valve timing. The unit produces 180 hp and 173 ft-lb of torque, making plenty of power at the first stomp of the gas. However, this power does not come at the cost of fuel economy, as the Scion tC is still rated at 31 mpg on the highway.
The tC benefits from MacPherson front, while the rear utilizes an independent double- wishbone system. Steering is quick thanks to electronically assisted rack-and-pinion power steering.
Standard features include 18-inch gray metallic alloy wheels, power mirrors, windows and locks, a tilt/telescopic steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, sport seats, a 60/40 split folding rear seat, keyless entry, panoramic power moonroof, Bluetooth and an 8-speaker, touchscreen Pioneer audio system with USB port and iPod connectivity.
The accessories list is extensive and includes body graphics, rear spoiler, door sill accents, remote start, TRD performance accessories, and BeSpoke premium audio.
Safety is paramount in the tC, with advanced front airbags, front side-mount airbags, front and rear side airbags, active headrests front and rear, a first aid kit and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Endlessly Customizable
Affordability
Interior Space And Amenities
Sporty Character
The Scion tC coupe receives a host of changes for 2014. Among them is a revised front end with an aggressive "shark mouth" grille, distinctively styled headlights, LED driving lights and taillights and new 18-inch dark gray metallic alloy wheels. A new optional 6-speed sequential sport-shift automatic transmission is borrowed from the sporty Scion FR-S and cuts shift times in half from the previous automatic. The unit also features Dynamic Rev Management, which blips the throttle during downshifts. Cars with the 6-speed manual now include a "pre-load" differential -- similar to those found in Lexus models -- which better manages torque to the front wheels. Retuned dampers give the suspension a more balanced feel while retaining a performance edge.
Inside, the 2014 tC features a new standard 6.1-inch LCD audio touchscreen. A BeSpoke Premium stereo is optional and new soft-touch materials have been incorporated throughout.
A special-edition model, the "Scion 10" Series tC, features Silver Ignition paint, with illuminated front and rear badging, a premium Pioneer audio system, a solar-powered illuminated shift knob, silver seatbelts and special interior details.
The 2014 Scion tC is a car designed and marketed at younger buyers. It offers sporty performance while also rewarding drivers with decent fuel economy. The interior is second-to-none in terms of comfort and ergonomics and the extensive array of factory accessories means the tC is basically a blank canvas that Scion encourages buyers to customize in to their liking. With a base price under $20,000, the Scion tC is an affordable, stylish coupe that offers plenty of features and fun.