2011 Scion TC Experienced an Evolution

Most reviewers aren’t pumped about the redesigned 2011 Scion TC. Critics say the 2011 Scion TC is an improvement from the 2010 Scion tC model year, but none say the tC is a must have. Scion tried to accomplish lot in updating the 2011 Scion TC while still keeping the tC’s price under $20,000. Therein lays the Scion tC problems, because the Scion TC 2011 is a car without a singular mission.

2011 Scion tC at night with lights on-image1

This coupe-hatchback has to do too much. Scion TC 2011 has to give equal priority to style, feature content and out-and-out affordability. There’s just not enough money left in the budget to do anything very exciting with the car’s chassis. The new Scion TC is very similar to the outgoing model. The majority of the press agrees, however, that 2011 TC made improvements in three key areas: the engine, the steering wheel and the stereo options.

Though the Scion TC 2011 concept is based on the same platform as the 2010 Scion tC, the tC has been improved in a number of key areas. The punchy four-cylinder engine has been swapped out for an even punchier four-cylinder borrowed from the latest Camry and other Toyotas. It produces 19 more horsepower than before and Scion tC, more important, boasts improved fuel economy whether you opt for the easy-to-row six-speed manual transmission or the new six-speed automatic transmission.

Scion says 2011 TC has turned the suspension for improved handling and then replaced the hydraulic power steering with an electric system for improved fuel economy, but neither is successful in transforming the tC into a truly sporty car. Despite its coupe body style, chunky flat-bottomed steering wheel and well-bolstered seats, it is very much all show and no go. Mind you about this 2011 Scion TC, that’s OK if you want the look of a sport coupe without the rough ride and general aggressive nature of one.

2011 Scion TC Reviews

The new Scion TC is a good choice among compact coupes thanks to its roomy interior and generous cargo capacity. Just don’t expect it to drive as sporty as it looks. Reviewers agree that the engine upgrade from a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine for the 2010 Scion tC to a 2.5 four-cylinder in the 2011 Scion TC is a huge improvement. The 2011 Scion TC, however, doesn’t drive like a sports car.

The 2011 Scion TC handles are like a “slightly more nimble Camry,” according to Popular Mechanics. That’s not a compliment in the world of sportier cars. The steering wheel, however, isn’t something you’d find in a Camry. It’s flat on the bottom, wrapped in leather, fat and has titanium-colored plastic accents and audio controls. Motor Trend says 2011 Scion TC is just as fat, if not fatter than BMW’s, and that’s a good thing.

In comparison to the engine, steering wheel and updated stereo options, the exterior styling experienced fewer changes, and has some reviewers calling the change a evolution, rather than a revolution. Scion straightened the 2010 Scion tC curvy exterior to produce a more aggressive look for the 2011 Scion TC.

Some members of the auto press aren’t thrilled about the redesigned Scion TC 2011, they say it’s an improvement, but that it’s rather unimpressive and doesn’t make a statement. Overall, the Scion 2011 TC is a solid car for youngsters who want to look good while they drive and want a solid list of standard features, but need to avoid steep car payments.