The 2008 Scion tC gets a slightly revised front- and rear-end appearance. This 2-door coupe comes from Toyota’s youth-oriented Scion division. It has a 160-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine and a 5-speed manual transmission or optional 4-speed automatic. Available safety features include ABS, a driver knee airbag, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Neither traction control nor an antiskid system are available. The front-passenger seatback reclines to form a long surface in tandem with a split folding rear seat. The base tC comes with 17-inch alloy wheels and a sunroof. Dealer-installed options include 18-inch wheels and special trim items. Newly standard is an auxiliary input jack for digital music players. The Spec Package model comes with 16-inch steel wheels, nonopening sunroof, and unique upholstery.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. The Sporty/Performance Car class consists of two-seat roadsters, 4-cylinder hatchbacks, and V8 muscle cars. Regardless of configuration, all have an emphasis on affordable performance.
Our Best Buys include the Mazda MX-5 and Scion tC. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Mustang and Mini Cooper. New this year is the Mini Cooper Clubman.