The 2009 Scion tC comes to the market largely unchanged from its previous incarnations. The vehicle loses the Spec Package model, but otherwise offers no changes. The Scion tC is a two-door hatchback coupe that competes with other youth-oriented cars like the MINI Cooper and VW GTI. Scion is a division of Toyota geared to market towards younger drivers and those seeking a more youthful driving experience and has gained much recognition since its debut.
The Scion tC offers a single engine, but two available transmissions. The 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine produces 160 hp and is mated to either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The tC offers many safety features, including ABS and numerous types of airbags, as well. For 2009, the tC will be available in a single trim level, only, though options such as 17-inch alloy wheels, factory sunroof and a navigation system are still available. Other upgrades include a special 18-inch alloy wheel setup, a sport-tuned exhaust system and several other accessories available at the dealer.
2009 Scion tC Performance
The 2009 Scion tC offers adequate take off power from the starting line. However, the vehicle takes considerable throttle pressure to shift down during passing. The manual transmission provides better performance than does the automatic, which can be quite harsh during acceleration. The tC is capable of 0 – 60 times in the neighborhood of 8 seconds, making it somewhat slow when compared to other vehicles in its class. The Scion tC receives better than average scores for fuel economy, averaging 27 mpg in highway driving. The vehicle averages just over 20 mpg in city driving, as well. However, we think a car the size of the tC should offer more miles per gallon than it does.
The tC offers quality handling and braking for drivers, as well. While it does not handle with the alacrity of some other models in the class, it doesn't come in last, either. The tC offers solid construction, capable steering and aggressive braking. Body lean during turning is noticeable, but not dramatic. Additionally, the vehicle is small enough that maneuvering it through urban areas is not a chore.
Ride quality is not impacted by the relatively small size of the vehicle. The suspension is firm, but not harsh. Adding larger wheels increases the stiffness and harshness of driving over rough roads, but not overly so. The tC does suffer from engine noise at high RPM ranges, as well as during acceleration. Wind noise is also noticeable at highway speeds. Road noise can be quite intrusive, especially if driving over rough pavement. Finally, the addition of the sunroof does increase wind noise significantly.
2009 Scion tC Interior
The cabin of the tC helps mitigate some of the performance issues noted above. All plastics are textured for a pleasant, quality appearance. In addition, the cloth used throughout is of high quality, with pleasant patterns and designs. All driver controls and gauges are simple and easy to read, located exactly where they should be. Audio and HVAC controls are also easily reached from the driver's position, helping to keep the driver's eyes on the road during control adjustment.
The front seats offer considerable comfort and support, especially during turning. However, legroom is somewhat restricted and headroom is less than adequate for taller people. Visibility is excellent all around and is not restricted by the sloped rear roof, roof pillars or headrests.
Rear seating is better than expected on a car of this size. Legroom is tight, but headroom is surprising considering the sloping roofline. Legroom becomes very cramped with the front seats extended to the full aft position, but no worse than other models in the class. Cargo room is less than what one would wish, but the rear seats do fold for better storage space. The cabin also features numerous storage areas for added convenience.
2009 Scion tC Safety Features
Tire pressure monitoring, a brake assist system, 4-wheel disc brakes, dual front airbags, side curtain airbags and front side airbags are all standard safety features on the tC. An antitheft system is also standard, as are auto-off headlights. The tC received high marks from the NHTSA for impact ratings. Scores ranged from 5 out of 5 to 4 out of 5.
Summary
The 2009 Scion tC offers numerous options and a quality ride, making it one of the best picks in its class. The value provided by the vehicle is considerable and it makes an excellent choice for drivers seeking a compact hatchback coupe for daily driving and for increased fuel economy.