2009 Initial Quality: Sporty Cars

Compact Sporty Car Segment


Highest Ranked: 2009 Scion tC
Among compact sporty cars, the Scion tC is the highest-ranked, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2009 Initial Quality Study^SM (IQS). In production virtually unchanged for five years, the tC boasts a standard features list that rivals most of its competition. The base price includes air conditioning, one-touch power windows, power mirrors, panoramic glass roof, tilt steering wheel, and cruise control. All tC models also arrive with factory 17-inch alloy wheels, variable intermittent wipers, and a chrome exhaust tip. Scion allows buyers to customize the tC with its unique “monospec” program, through which consumers choose from a wide selection of factory performance-oriented Toyota Racing Development options and cosmetic add-ons. Under the Scion tC’s hood is a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine. It sends power to the front wheels through a 5-speed manual or an optional 4-speed electronically automatic controlled transmission. When equipped with the automatic transmission, the economical tC earns 21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.

According to owners of the 2009 Scion tC, the top five problem areas are:

• Excessive wind noise
• Vehicle pulls noticeably
• Paint chip or scratch at delivery
• Engine cranks too long before starting
• Materials that scuff/soil easily

Learn More About the 2009 Scion tC
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Ranked No. 2: 2009 Volkswagen GTI
Ranked No. 3: 2009 Volkswagen Eos