In its class and among most of Toyota’s product line, the 2014 Scion tC is one of the most value-packed, fun cars out there. Not much has changed this year other than the front and rear design (which looks more akin to the Scion FR-S) and some interior goodies. The real story for the 2014 Scion tC is its new, well-sorted six-speed automatic transmission. Equipped with a nifty rev-matching downshift ability, the new six-speed automatic is smooth, sporty and (almost) fun to use. I still recommend for sport-minded folk the six-speed manual, but this new automatic is outstanding.
The other new notables consist of a more aggressive front end and an updated infotainment package. It has a larger 6.1-inch screen, more usable components and it’s fairly app-savvy. Options are limited, but I highly recommend the TRD exhaust and quick-shifter. Oh, and the awesome dual-pane sunroof is standard!
Nothing has changed with the 2014 Scion tC’s 179 horsepower, 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine that makes 173 lbs-feet of torque. It’s a free-spinning engine that’s fairly economical (23 mpg city & 33 mpg highway), and has a great buzz when paired with the TRD exhaust system. Off the line, it pulls nicely and the snappy auto gear changes definitely help make it zoom.
Oh yes – if you must be a punk-ass and call the four-cylinder a “Camry” engine, fine… go ahead. It may be from the Camry, but it’s a great match for the 2014 Scion tC. Good pulling torque, great revving horsepower. Very different from Honda’s power – but it’s good nonetheless.
Handling is excellent considering its overall size. Remarkably, it’s one of those cars that looks smaller than it actually is. Rear seats can truly hold adults and the hatch (yes, it’s a hatchback) reveals oodles of cargo room. It holds more than just about any car in its class and is remarkably utilitarian.
Great car. Considering they start at about 20K and you can get one loaded for under 25K – it’s a good bargain too. By the way – that “Camry” engine? It’s known to be very reliable as well. Everybody wins.
Dislikes? Sure, there are a few issues. The competition offers many things the 2014 Scion tC does not, such as: heated/cooled seats, keyless starter and leather. It needs a higher quality interior to match the upcoming Koreans too. Maybe a lighter-colored interior would be a fresh change as well.
I’m about to pit this 2014 Scion tC against its cousin, the 2014 Scion FR-S. I think the 2014 Scion tC will surprise a few punks out there. Yep, it’s that good.
Here’s a video preview of the epic Scion FR-S vs Scion tC race(s)!
