2009 Scion tC

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The 2009 Scion tC is still powered by a single engine option, a sporty 161-horsepower, 2.4L 4-cylinder with Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). It powers the front wheels through either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The VVT-i aids in responsiveness throughout the rev range as well as fuel-efficient operation. The tC is certified as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV), and with the manual transmission, the tC returns 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway.

The tC offers a range of comfort and convenience features compared to other sporty coupes in its price range. Well bolstered front sport seats are standard; in back, the seatbacks recline to 45 degrees and can adjust to ten different positions altogether. They're also split 60/40 and fold forward to an almost-flat cargo floor that is about 8.5 feet long. Tie-down hooks are provided for cargo convenience. Throughout the rest of the interior the tC has numerous storage spaces, including a two-tiered center console and CD and cell phone holders.

Safety-wise, the tC comes with front seat-mounted side airbags, a driver's knee airbag, and side-curtain airbags that extend to front and rear occupants. Four-wheel antilock disc brakes are standard, along with electronic brakeforce distribution, and the four-wheel independent suspension with double wishbones in back helps give responsive handling.

Scion simplifies tC ordering by providing an extensive standard equipment list and only a transmission option to consider. That standard equipment list includes air conditioning, cruise control, a panorama glass moonroof, auto up/down power windows, power locks and mirrors, keyless entry, an audio cover and a 160-watt Pioneer CD sound system with iPod control, steering-wheel audio controls, and an auxiliary input.

A range of options are geared toward customization and include various wheel, trim, and appearance add-ons, along with an in-dash navigation system and a premium sound system that includes the capability to play "skins" and play four- or eight-second clips.

Most noteworthy is the Toyota Racing Development (TRD) line of performance equipment, including suspension kits, a high-performance clutch, quick-shift kit, and sportier-sounding exhaust system. Seven-spoke, 18-inch EMX alloy wheels with Pirelli PZero tires are also offered for an especially sophisticated look.

All Scions come with complimentary maintenance service at the 5,000- and 10,000-mile intervals, and special rebates are available for military service members and recent college graduates.
For 2009, the sporty Scion tC carries over little changed from its restyling last year. 17-inch 6-spoke aluminum wheels are now standard, and the seat fabric has been updated.
Value-for-money; superb front seats; sporty handling; wide range of standard features; customization options.
The 2009 Scion tC makes a strong appeal to young buyers, with its sporty yet economical performance and an appearance--inside and out--that feels more sophisticated than other vehicles in its price range. Many of its finer details, such as seating comfort and refinement are in a class above. And for those with a little extra money, some of the features and appearance cues of a luxury sport coupe can be added on.