The 2014 Scion tC wears some updated duds, has a better automatic transmission, upgraded interior toys and has some suspension tweaks. Most importantly, the 2014 Scion tC is still the excellent, surprisingly utilitarian two-door coupe with the 179 horsepower (it was rated at 180 hp) 2.5-liter, four-cylinder, Camry engine. The whole enchilada gives the 2014 Scion tC a decidedly Scion FR-S feel.
Nothing wrong with that.
I really like the Scion tC and so do you. I think it’s still the best compromise of a sporty, front drive coupe and comfy hatchback for under $20,000. The only issue was, when they updated the Scion tC a few years back, they neglected the exterior. It was a mellow restyling at best.
“The 2014 Scion tC is defined by more assertive styling, starting from the front with distinctive new headlamps and an all-new hood that extends lower toward a more open, muscular grille with an embedded tC logo. The new upper- and lower-grille treatments are bordered by LED accent lighting.
Beneath the rear bumper, a new black-out valance features an FR-S style, lower-center trim piece and lower perimeter reflectors; new advanced LED tail lamps complete the picture. New 18-inch alloy wheels with 225/45R18 tires carry the aggressive character through to the car’s profile. Standard on the tC, the wheels feature a premium dark gray finish, contrasted by eye-catching machined-spoke surfaces.
The tC will be available in seven exterior paint colors, including two new additions, Absolutely Red and Blue Streak Metallic.” – – Scion Media
The six-speed manual transmission remains and, in my estimation, is the choice for folks who are cool. Still, there is the new six-speed automatic transmission with “Dynamic Rev Management” technology. Basically, like the Scion FR-S, the 2014 Scion tC will have an automatic six-speed that will rev the engine between gear changes. It shifts much faster too. So, I suppose you’re medium cool if you choose the auto-box.
Scion significantly revised the interior too: ” Upgraded Materials and Scion Standard Display Audio Enhance Interior –The 2014 Scion tC’s cabin adds new technology, additional convenience features and upgraded materials. The tC will be the first model in the family to come with the all-new Scion Standard Display Audio, featuring a 6.1-inch LCD touchscreen. The system will be incorporated into all 2014 Scion models, making Scion the industry’s first non-luxury brand to feature a touchscreen audio system as standard equipment across its entire lineup. The new audio system comes equipped with features that Scion drivers will enjoy, including Bluetooth® compatibility, HD Radio™ Technology and steering wheel-mounted controls.
The new base audio system will be joined by an available, all-new Scion BeSpoke Premium Audio system featuring Aha™. This upgraded system includes full navigation, as well as the ability to connect compatible smart phones through Aha to access 30,000 free audio stations, including Scion’s own signature station featuring a lineup of its 17 music channels. In addition to audiobook stations, sports, news and entertainment, the Aha service utilizes location–based services like Yelp and TripAdvisor, and integrates most of the popular social media applications, all at a great value for consumers.” – – Scion Media
Scion upgraded the suspension and steering on the 2014 Scion tC too. The body is more ridged due to additional spot welds. Scion modified the stabilizer bar and its components – thus optimizing the shocks and springs for a sportier ride. They also modified the electric power steering for better response.
This appears to be augmentation to an already fun package. As I said, this is a fantastic car, one that defined Scion’s youth market in the past. Is it a better car than the FR-S? God no. The FR-S is a jock with a bent on performance. The Scion tC is a jack of many trades. Any high school/college kid who needs utility to go with some sport (and can’t pony up the bucks for a GTI/Mazdaspeed3) needs to test a Scion tC.
Look for the 2014 Scion tC in dealerships in June 2013.
Check out this early TFLCar video review of the Scion tC in Las Vegas!
Our videos have improved since 2010 – and, apparently, so has the 2014 Scion tC.
