2005 Scion tC Preview

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Introduction

DETROIT, MI - Fittingly, Scion chose the 2004 North American International Auto Show in Detroit to unveil the third product for its youth-oriented lineup. By the time a Scion dealer opens in the Motor City in the summer of 2004, the new 2005 Scion tC will be ready to cater to Generation Y buyers who desperately want a BMW 3-Series coupe but can only afford a used Ford Mustang. Displaying the new tC in Eminem's hometown should get the kids worked into a froth of anticipation, generating that all important buzz as Scion retailers bleed into the Great Lakes states. Not only does the 2005 Scion tC provide the upstart brand with significantly broader appeal, it also injects a dose of performance into Toyota's latest effort to reach young consumers. For example, the Scion tC offers:

• European-tuned, four-wheel-independent suspension with MacPherson struts in front and double wishbones in back
• Standard four-wheel-disc brakes with ABS
• Standard 17-inch alloy wheels with 45-series
• Z-rated performance tires
• Optional supercharger package to boost horsepower past the 200 mark, which Scion promises will be surprisingly affordable

The standard engine is an aluminum 2.4-liter inline four cylinder with variable valve timing that makes 160 horsepower. It's connected to a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels, and is expected to get about 25 mpg in combined city and highway driving. Though it appears to be a coupe with a traditional trunk, the Scion tC is actually a hatchback. The body is cleanly styled, but is slab-sided and a bit dull despite hints of Audi, Volvo and, to our eyes, the Pontiac G6. Interestingly, turn signal indicators are located in the exterior mirrors.