2013 Scion tC Ml320 4dr AWD 3.2L SUV

The Scion tC is a five-seat compact hatchback coupe. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder is standard, boasting 180 horsepower and 173 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a six-speed automatic is the lone factory option. Although the tC's combined fuel economy estimate of 26 mpg is respectable, most rivals are notably more fuel-efficient., , The tC comes in two trim levels: base and Release Series 7.0. Standard features for the base tC include 18-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, a telescoping steering wheel, side curtain airbags, Bluetooth phone/audio connectivity and an eight-speaker Pioneer sound system with CD player, HD radio, an auxiliary audio jack, an iPod/USB interface and RCA output jacks. Additional features of the Release Series 7.0 include "High Voltage" yellow paint, a body kit, black 18-inch wheels, keyless ignition/entry and yellow-accented black upholstery. Dealer-installed options include a navigation system, upgraded audio units and multicolored interior mood lighting., , Although the Scion tC is classified as a compact car, its relatively long wheelbase provides ample legroom, especially for those riding in the back. Long doors and sliding seats make entry and exit relatively easy, and rear passengers will also enjoy the split-folding rear seats that recline up to 45 degrees. With its rear seats folded down, the tC has nearly as much cargo volume as a compact SUV. The tC's passenger-side front seat also folds flat, which enables the car to accommodate long items such as snowboards or surfboards., , Though the tC isn't especially sporty to drive, the interior does its best to indicate otherwise. The rim of the flat-bottomed steering wheel is quite thick, as if pulled from a racecar. Controls canted toward the driver are another interesting touch. Unfortunately, the interior is filled with hard, flimsy plastics that seem cheaper than those found in the cabins of the competition. In particular, the center armrest is rock hard., , On the road, the Scion tC is responsive and involving enough to keep you entertained around town, but not so sporty that you'd relish driving it on a back road somewhere. The steering doesn't provide much feel, and the stability control has a tendency to kick in frequently during aggressive driving., , Overall, the Scion tC is a respectable choice for a compact coupe. If driving fun is a priority, there are better choices, including Scion's own FR-S. But for those shoppers mainly wanting something stylish and practical, the tC will certainly satisfy.