The Scion tC is a compact sports coupe that debuted in 2005 to flesh out Toyota’s fledgling youth-oriented Scion lineup of vehicles. A new model when it debuted, the tC paired unique interior and exterior design with a Camry-sourced four-cylinder engine and the platform from Europe’s Toyota Avensis. Scion’s goal with the tC was to provide exceptional value in an affordable car with peppy performance, high quality and a luxurious look and feel. This is likely the final year for the Scion tC.

Here is what changed on the 2009 Scion tC:
• The tC Spec Package is discontinued for 2009

The 2009 Scion tC is sold in what is called “mono-spec” trim with either a manual or an automatic transmission, meaning that it comes just one way out of the box. Standard equipment includes a panoramic glass sunroof; air conditioning; cruise control; side mirrors with integrated signals; power door locks, windows and mirrors; remote keyless entry; outside temperature display; first-aid kit; and 17-inch alloy wheels. Free scheduled 5,000- and 10,000-mile maintenance intervals are also included.

Options are sold as accessories by the dealer. Accessories are available from the Scion Genuine Accessories and Toyota Racing Division (TRD) catalogs, making it easy for a buyer to customize a new tC. Among the items that can be added to a Scion tC are a ground effects kit, a choice of spoilers, fog lights, unique taillights, and bigger wheels and tires. Buyers can equip the interior with a navigation system, upgraded sound system, LED nighttime illumination, and a variety of special décor touches from shift knobs to sport pedals. Handling and performance can be enhanced with a number of mechanical upgrades from the TRD parts catalog.

The 2009 Scion tC is powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine making 161 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 162 lb.-ft. of torque at 4000 rpm on regular unleaded fuel. The engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. A 4-speed automatic transmission is available.

Standard safety features on the 2008 Scion tC include seven airbags with side curtains and a driver’s knee airbag, a tire pressure monitor, and antilock brakes. Stability control is not available on this model.

J.D. Power and Associates says the Scion tC competes against compact sporty cars like the Subaru Impreza and Volkswagen GTI.

More information on the 2009 Scion tC
More photos of the 2009 Scion tC
Ratings for the 2009 Scion tC