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Scion tC
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Mackabee
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Mackabee
Good news if it is, the Absolutely Red on the Scion xA RS 1.0 looked great! Can't wait to see a tC with it!
2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick
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Mackabee
2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick
I LOVE MY NEW CAR. It is an Azure Pearl automatic with the rear lip spoiler and side airbags. It's so cute and I love the luxury of power everything. the stereo is great, the controls are all sleek and easy to use, the suspension is nice and sporty, but not overly tight...I don't have any complaints yet.
I'm enjoying the process of discovering little things. For example: I didn't know that when I turn off the car and take out the key I can still roll the windows up and down until I open and close the door. Very handy for someone who is not used to power anything!
I like the little hidden compartment between the driver and passenger seats in front- it's not THAT hidden, but it's cute and I didn't have that in my old car. People are consistently surprised to hear all the features I got for my money. I can't believe I have CRUISE CONTROL! I also find it amusing that I have a cigarette lighter. I won't use it for anything, but maybe if I'm camping someday it'll come in handy.
OK, thanks for listening to me ramble.
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Mackabee
BTW-the Enkei's on the xA RS 1.0 looked just right to me. They were mag-wheel shiny, like they should look. Transformed a plain xA into a little bombshell.
2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick
Btw, how is everyone's color holding up? My Azure Pearl stays looking clean and hides the dirt well. But, it sure does scratch easy. I have lots of scratch lines from parking lots. My father says: "They sure don't bake on 20 coats anymore...".
It arrived here two days ago... today I went in and signed the paperwork. They were detailing it, but had yet to install any of the options (even the stock stereo!)... it was hard to decide whether to drive it away or leave it there so it would be "done" when I drove it off the lot, but there it will stay another day.
I love it already - for many of the reasons that others here have said and said better. But I'll have to plug the amount of space in the car - it looks small on the outside, but inside it is almost cavernous.
One thing... the financing guy tried to sell me on the various warranty/service packages that they hawk on everyone. The only one that seemed like a *decent* deal was the 4 year service contract - covering oil changes and the 15/30/45K services. I'm skeptical about how much I'd really save - and I'd have to go to the dealer, instead of my trusted mechanic. But I'd also get a rental in the bargain.
They wanted over $900 for this. To me it seems pricey, and of course they are making a pretty penny on this or they wouldn't be selling it. Does anyone have a good reason why I would buy it?
The extended warranty they were selling was laughable - guy claimed it would cover everything, of course, and I knew better than that. Plus they wanted almost $1400! Nuts.
Also, out of curiousity, what are people paying for insurance? My six month rates will be going up by about $100-$130, depending on the carrier.
(Finally, if anyone here sees a blue tC in Seattle, be sure to beep and wave!)
tCcowboy
ps~thanks for the posts mackabee..those helped a lot
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
tCcowboy
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Mackabee
tCcowboy
by the way...any1 know how much lowering springs are and if u got them at all..are they worth it?
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Mackabee
There are also after market springs made by Tein and goldline. Just look around and try to find something within your budget.
Most people lower their cars to improve handling and looks. If you think the positives outweigh the negatives, then lower your car.
The Dark Cherry looks great in the showroom, but maybe not so on the street. Maybe too fem?
The Silver always works. Or maybe all Black?
I live in a very warm climate, so maybe not.
Does that Exhaust system add HP? Or just noise? Reduce Backpressure?
Very suave inside. Going from a base Civic to this is like shopping at Lexus!
Just wonder 'bout the exhaust. Looks cool, but would drive me over $19k.
DrFill
2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick
If the tC wasn't so damn soft in the performance department I'd probably be considering it right now. The supercharger will help, but unless they improve the handling and keep the price reasonable as well, my money will be going toward a Cobalt SS or WRX.
Considering the $18k price, I think the tC is a TRENDOUS value, EVEN over those two.
The tC has a bigger back seat than the Subi (i checked, I'm 6' 4"). And a turbocharger won't totally fix the Chevy's abysmal resale.
Unless you're autocrossin', the tC makes real world sense!
Saving $4k, you shouldn't be so hard on the Scion, that's a lot of coin!
DrFill
I can get a basic WRX for $21,300. Add the premium pkg, Bosal exhaust, turbo gauge and short throw shifter and it's still under $25,000. 227 hp and AWD, superb handling and power.
The SS is what, $21,500 base MSRP? Add the $1500 option for LSD and Recaros, $400 for side airbags, and another $800 for the sunroof and I'm looking at a touch over $24,000. I'd never pay MSRP for that car, even if the dealers are pushing for it now. I can also get an extra $1000 off with my GMcard earnings. So the SS would be about $22,000 (you were unintentionally right here) +/- $500. 205 hp and FWD, good power and handing.
Then there's the Scion. If you're deciding between the tC and Civic, by all means get the damn tC. But if you want performance, it ain't happening. Base tC - $16,500. Add on fog lights, pedestal spoiler, (which both cars above have standard), TRD exhaust, and side airbags and you're looking at $18,500. Slap on the supercharger (rumored to be a $4,000 option), which I already mentioned above would be needed to reasonably compare this car with the others, and you're looking at $22,500. Around 205 hp and FWD, with good power and average handling. This could end up being the most expensive car and have the worst performance. Unless they throw in a suspension upgrade with the supercharger, that's not a good value. The tC is great if you're looking for a slightly upscale economy car with a little more go than the Civic/Corolla, and you don't start adding on options. I've driven two, one AT and one MT. They're nice cars and I like them, shoot I was almost ready to buy one, but when it comes to performance the tC doesn't have it.
That's almost 20%.
The Scion tC is the best combo of style, features, quality, and power for LESS than $20k.
I like the WRX for $21k, but it NEEDS that prem. pkg., so it's not really $21k.
DrFill
I live in New Jersey, and those rates are LOW!
My first quote was over $300/month
You're luckier than you know...lol
- Dante
(It does a great job balancing sport/economy/luxury/affordability/resale value.) Couldn't agree with you more! THAT'S WHAT THIS CAR IS ALL ABOUT!!. Some people out there seem to think it is intended to compete with Porche, Vettes and SUV's.
If you want cargo and passenger room - buy an SUV
If you want a a pure-bred sports car - buy a Porche
If you want a compact coupe that strikes the remarkable balance that you described, at a price thousands less than it's closest legitimate comparable competetors (without giving up anything of any significance) - BUY A tC!
If your into handling, but a MINI S for $5k+ more, but don't complain about the wagon-like ride or quirkiness! If you want 4 doors, quit looking at coupes! If you want 300 HP, etc., etc.
I not only do not find the tC "buzzy", unless standing on the pedal, I rarely even notice the engine running.
Were compromises made to attain the "balance"? Yes indeed, but as an overall package, all things considered, there is nothing out there to compare to the tC at $17,265 (auto). Is it perfect? No more or less than anything else out there. That being said, for what it is intended to be, it comes pretty darn close. Critics just need to keep things in perspective as to what the car is intended to be and stop trying to compare it to things that are not relavent.
Sounds like you are in the market for a out-and-out pocket rocket - if you do not care about the great value, standard equip, compliant ride when not 'racing' in the neighborhood, reliability, quality and resale - then you are exactly right, the tC is not for you. But, if you want a car that did a pretty good job of balancing a lot of good attributes without cheaping-out on anything and at a remarkably good price, you may want to give the tC another try.
Appreciate the tC for what it is and intended to be. Owners who think they have a Vette are fooling themselves, but non-owners who insist on critisizing the tC for not being something it wasn't meant to be in the first place aren't being realistic either.
(It does a great job balancing sport/economy/luxury/affordability/resale value.) Couldn't agree with you more! THAT'S WHAT THIS CAR IS ALL ABOUT!!. Some people out there seem to think it is intended to compete with Porche, Vettes and SUV's.
I agree with this 100%. The tC does what it's supposed to do, and does it well.
That's the problem for me - I like the tC a lot, but as I stated above performance is going to determine which car I buy. Even with the supercharger the tC probably won't cut it and that's disappointing to me, because it has the potential to be the hands-down winner. I never indicated that I didn't like the tC or that it was a bad car, I just wish it had a higher level of performance, because that's the only thing keeping me from buying it.
One small gripe with your point about realistic comparisons - as soon as Scion offers a TRD supercharger as a factory-installed option, any comparisons with the WRX, SS, RSX, etc become valid and should be expected.
> $22,000. WRX w/o Premium pkg (which is definitely not NEEDed) < $22,000. Hey
look, I'm comparing two $22,000 cars. Amazing. Your point is that a naturally
aspirated tC can't be compared to a WRX. When was that ever in question? Your
post was pointless.
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2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h)
Review your vehicle
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
First off, thank you to all that have provided meaningful information about this vehicle. I am seriously considering the tC as my next purchase, I like what I see/hear about this car. I have yet to test drive, but coming from a '97 Civic DX, I can't imagine I will be disappointed. I'm sure Toyota would like to "steal me back" from Honda. :P
My question is in regards to the side airbag option. It's my impression that if I choose this option, an order needs to be placed at the factory and the wait time is approximately 6-8 weeks. Does this seem legitimate? The reason I ask is because if I purchase a tC, I would like to have it no later than mid-June. I know I need to talk to the dealership, but before I do that, I was curious to know if anyone has any thoughts regarding this. As a side note, I want the 2005 model... if I were to place an order within the next few weeks, would I still be able to get one? I am concerned because of the unknown roll-out date for the 2006's.
My next question has to do with SAB and insurance. Common sense tells me having this option would reduce insurance premiums, but I do not have any facts verifying this. Has anyone experienced this and if so, what kind of savings are you looking at?
All responses are greatly appreciated... thanks in advance!
Mackabee
found this guys page on cardomain...anyone know anything about painting your rims? also..brake calipers (red)?
Looks like I'll be heading into a dealership ASAP. I'm still trying to figure out if I really need the SAB option, it seems a little pricey... then again, you can't put a price on someone's life.
BTW... any "known" changes for the 2006 yet??
Mackabee
I am surprised to hear they are upgrading the stereos. When I was at the auto show recently, I was very pleased with the stock offering... I can't imagine much upgrading would be needed, at least on the xB and tC.
Thank you Mackabee for all your insight!
Also, what new colors are coming in 2006 for the tC? Will they bring over Absolutely Red on regular tC's for sale here in America? :P :P :P :P
2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick
Yes, the revs are higher than (IMO) they need to be, but if you maintain it, the engine is still going to last a long time. A nice tall OD 6th gear would be very nice, and help MPG too.
Toyota offers (or will, not sure if it is out yet) a factory supercharger kit. I think it is supposed to go for about $3K (or maybe 2K?). It will be a bolt on, and won't even void the warranty! Just don't expect it to help with your mileage.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.