Disappointing engine
I can't figure out why a so-called ''new'' model would house an aging powerplant. Sure, 180 horsepower sounds like a lot, especially by small car standards, but it's still not quite enough to pretend to be a real sports car.
The six-speed manual gearbox lacks precision and fails to deliver the kind of thrills driving enthusiasts are looking for. Meanwhile, the poor suspension settings translate into significant discomfort and body roll on the road. This is everything a sports coupe should NOT be.
It has to be said, however, that I was far from the first journalist to test-drive this particular specimen, which may have been abused and substantially reworked.
''My'' Scion
Of course, the trademark of any Scion remains their myriad of tuning components. In reality, these products serve as canvases for people who want to express their personality through their car.
Upon launching in Canada last September, Scion announced a catalogue of 75 unique parts and accessories. American customers, meanwhile, have a choice of about 400.
That means tons of possibilities for modifying, enhancing or customizing your ride. As you can imagine, some of these options are pricey, others very affordable. Overall, they represent simple yet smart additions to Scion cars.
Wrap-up
The 2011 Scion tC is not the sports coupe I dreamed of. Sub-par handling and power left me wanting for more. Then I looked at the spec sheet and realized it offers a fairly-decent package at just over $20,000.
In the end, you won't see me rushing to the nearest dealer to buy one, but the company doesn't really care since it targets drivers half my age.
I can't figure out why a so-called ''new'' model would house an aging powerplant. Sure, 180 horsepower sounds like a lot, especially by small car standards, but it's still not quite enough to pretend to be a real sports car.
The six-speed manual gearbox lacks precision and fails to deliver the kind of thrills driving enthusiasts are looking for. Meanwhile, the poor suspension settings translate into significant discomfort and body roll on the road. This is everything a sports coupe should NOT be.
It has to be said, however, that I was far from the first journalist to test-drive this particular specimen, which may have been abused and substantially reworked.
''My'' Scion
Of course, the trademark of any Scion remains their myriad of tuning components. In reality, these products serve as canvases for people who want to express their personality through their car.
 |
| Sure, 180 horsepower sounds like a lot, especially by small car standards, but it's still not quite enough to pretend to be a real sports car. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com) |
Upon launching in Canada last September, Scion announced a catalogue of 75 unique parts and accessories. American customers, meanwhile, have a choice of about 400.
That means tons of possibilities for modifying, enhancing or customizing your ride. As you can imagine, some of these options are pricey, others very affordable. Overall, they represent simple yet smart additions to Scion cars.
Wrap-up
The 2011 Scion tC is not the sports coupe I dreamed of. Sub-par handling and power left me wanting for more. Then I looked at the spec sheet and realized it offers a fairly-decent package at just over $20,000.
In the end, you won't see me rushing to the nearest dealer to buy one, but the company doesn't really care since it targets drivers half my age.
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