New for 2015

Major changes for the 2015 model year are limited to steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters for the automatic transmission, and two new colors: Blizzard Pearl and Cosmic Gray.

Something Different 

The words “affordable” and “stylish” generally aren’t compatible when it comes to cars, but the 2015 Scion tC is one of the rare exceptions. It may have the price and footprint of a compact economy car, but those practical elements are clothed in attractive two-door coupe bodywork

So the tC gives its buyer something interesting to look at and fun to drive, but still comes with a low starting price, good fuel economy, and enough trunk space to haul groceries in a pinch. It’s a great no-compromise car for the buyer on a budget.

Powertrain and Performance

The 2015 Scion tC is a small and nimble car with a suitably small engine that packs a remarkable amount of performance and impressive fuel economy.

That sole engine option is a 2.5-liter four cylinder, which produces 179 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque. It drives the front wheels through either a six-speed manual transmission, or a six-speed automatic with (new for 2015) steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters.

Whether you choose to change gears yourself or let the torque converter do all the work, EPA fuel-economy ratings are the same. Both the manual and automatic are rated at 26 mpg combined (23 mpg city, 31 mpg highway),* in part thanks to VVT-i variable-valve timing tech borrowed from parent company Toyota, and Dynamic Rev Management, which helps better match engine speed to road speed.

Features and Trims

Scion designs its cars to be stylish and fun, but also affordable. Starting at $19,210,** the 2015 tC two-door coupe is no exception.

That price buys plenty of standard equipment, including 18-inch alloy wheels, LED front-accent lamps and side-view mirror mounted turn signals, and a panoramic moonroof. On the inside, there’s a tilt/telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, a 60/40 split-folding rear bench seat, and 6.1-inch LCD touchscreen display.

Unlike most other car brands, Scion includes all of the major equipment offered on a given model as standard. The options list is reserved for a la carte items that allow owners to personalize their cars.

So while others are spending money on a whiz-bang feature that turned out to be an optional extra, Scion buyers can mull things like a rear spoiler, 19-inch Toyota Racing Development (TRD) alloy wheels, and a BeSpoke Premium Audio system with Aha integration.

This tech upgrade adds features like push-to-talk voice navigation, geo-located points of interest, and up to 1,000 audio stations including seven “signature” Scion stations. Travelers can also get help from TripAdvisor and Yelp features.

On the performance front, the tC is also available with a TRD Quickshifter short-shift kit, performance exhaust system, upgraded brakes, and lowering springs for the suspension.

Exterior/Interior

There’s no point in buying a coupe unless it looks better than the sedan alternative, which isn’t a problem with the 2015 Scion tC.

The chiseled lines are accentuated by sharp, angular headlights and an aggressive froth fascia with a gaping grille flanked by vertical side gills that house LED accent lights. At the back, there’s a black-out panel inspired by the FR-S sports car, LED taillights, and a chrome exhaust tip.

The interior is just as sporty as the exterior, with bucket seats, orange instrument-panel illumination, and the aforementioned leather-wrapped steering wheel. The space can be further dressed up with illuminated door sills, and an interior lighting kit.

Safety

All of that style wouldn’t be worth much without the substantial reassurance of safety, though. Standard safety equipment on the 2015 Scion tC includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control, eight standard airbags, and active head restraints.

Bottom Line

The 2015 Scion tC proves that a stylish, sporty coupe doesn’t have to be expensive. It has the footprint and engine of an economy car, and the practical implications of those elements. Yet the tC is also much nicer to look at than the average economy car, and can be jazzed up with an array of accessories available right from the dealership. It’s the perfect way to inject some fun into your morning commute.

For more information, or to schedule a test drive, be sure to visit or contact our dealership today.

*EPA estimated MPG rating. Actual mileage will vary.

**MSRP includes delivery, processing and handling fee. Excludes taxes, title, license and optional equipment. 

Image: Scion (Vehicle shown with optional equipment)