2012 Scion tC

The Scion tC is pitched at the same youthful demographic as is its boxy four-door siblings, with a major emphasis on customization (via a catalog of extensive accessories sold at dealerships). The tC, though, is a cut above the other Scion models. And although the tC is the most expensive Scion offering, it's still fairly low priced. There's a lot of standard equipment included in the base price: Bluetooth (new this year), a power moonroof, a leather-wrapped tilt and telescoping steering wheel with audio controls, power door locks with remote, power windows, A/C, and eighteen-inch wheels. The interior is a mix of good and cheap, but the front seats are comfortable and the rear seats are usable, at least for passengers less than six feet tall. The tC's engine is more powerful than its siblings' engines, making a hearty 180 hp. The 2.5-liter isn't brimming with personality, but it will send this fairly lightweight coupe from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 7.6 seconds (8.2 seconds with the automatic). Speaking of transmissions, whereas the four-door Scions use a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic, the tC serves up two six-speeds, manual or automatic. Those additional gears help the tC deliver very good fuel economy despite its larger engine. The standard chassis setup is decent but not stellar. Buyers eager for greater responsiveness can select from the menu of TRD (Toyota Racing Development) upgrades. Just beware that going all in--with lowered springs, nineteen-inch wheels, et cetera--can result in a punishing ride.