But we’re getting ahead of ourselves. At first glance the new tC is immediately recognizable as its make over is evolutionary of the first generation. It shares the same silhouette, the  same measurements length and height, and the same character traits that have helped Scion sell some 310,000 copies since 2005. Scion took an approach to improve and modernize the tC with refinements, new technology, and safety features people expect five years later. But make no mistake, this car is all new inside and out.

The platform is a continuing evolution of the 106 inch wheelbase that underpins the 2005-2010 tC, but has been massaged to work with the new for 2011 18” wheels which now sport wider 225-45R18 tires. The track has been widened 1.3” in the front and 2.1” in the rear for better stability and cornering feel. Larger diameter disc brakes and re-sized sway bars tighten up the handling further.

Under the hood is a new 2.5 liter engine, now featuring twin variable valve timing. This and other improvements have added 19hp to make 180. Additionally the engine now has 173lb-ft of torque with better fuel efficiency than before now rated at 23 mpg city, 31 mpg highway. When you add in either of the new 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmissions the 2011 Scion tC is now about a half second quicker from 0-60 mph.

On the road, the new tC feels vault like and solid. We had a chance to take it through its paces on some nice curvy roads as well as cruise the highways and streets around the Las Vegas strip. Pushed in the corners, the tC is progressive and predictable. The standard traction control and stability control programs are there to protect but can be turned off. The traction control will automatically turn itself back on at speeds over 31 mph however.

We drove both the six-speed manual and automatic. We of course highly recommend the manual transmission as it offers you better performance and fun. The shifter is pretty good in precision, though getting it in reverse does take some practice. The six-speed automatic shifts smooth under hard acceleration and does have a sport mode for manual shifts. Scion says it expects some 70% of buyers to opt for the six-speed automatic. 0-60 acceleration for the manual is 7.6 seconds with the automatic hitting it in a slightly slower 8.3 seconds.

Power from the new 2.5 liter engine is very linear in its delivery. It revs smoothly to its redline providing the familiar torque band drivers of the previous generation tC have come to love. The exhaust note now gives a sportier growl from start up and rowing through the gears. The new tC is fast enough to be fun, but not too much to be a handful for most drivers. Given that the majority of Scion tC’s go to first time buyers and drivers, this is a perfect balance.

Inside is where Scion really raised the bar. An all new interior, dash, and safety package make the 2011 tC feel like a much more expensive car than before. The sport seats have big side bolsters that hold you snug. New for 2011 is a thick grippy leather wrapped steering wheel with racing inspired thumb grips and a flat bottom. It includes audio controls for adjustments on the fly. Best yet is that the steering wheel now telescopes and tilts.

Three, count them, three stereo systems are available for the 2011 Scion tC ranging up to 300 watts. Standard is the Pioneer head unit, optional is a slick Alpine unit with HD radio that can support a back-up camera and plug-n-play NAV system. And you can also opt for the Scion Navigation System as well. All three provide a USB port for 2011 as well as an auxiliary mini-jack.

The tC sports 8 standard speakers as well. Front speakers include 1” door tweeters, 3.4” door mid-range and 6” x 9” door 2 ohm woofers. In the rear are 6.3” full-range speakers. We tested both the standard sound system as well as one equipped with the Scion NAV and both pounded out the beats exceptionally. Trust us they kick.

Safety was a big priority for 2011. The tC now sports 8 airbags, including driver and passenger bags, new knee front airbags, side curtain airbags, and also the side seat mounted airbags. Additionally the front seats now have an innovative active head rest system. When a rear collision is detected, they move upward and forward to meet occupant’s heads to help reduce the effect of whiplash.

Standard like before is the full length moon roof. The front panel slides open while the rear panel is fixed. Retractable sunshades are provided as well to keep the sun out should the driver prefer. The rear window also has a patterned shade printed on to keep rear seat passenger heads from getting sun burned.

On the outside, the new styling is self evident with a modern new look. Blockier and beefier from the wheels to the flat roof line, the new tC got lots of looks as we cruised the Las Vegas strip. New projector beam headlights really stand out while the new tapered rear tail lights have SCION emblazoned in the lenses. The folding side mirrors now sport slick LED signal indicators too, much like its Euro and Asian cousins.  The new tC will be sold as the Toyota Zelas in markets outside the US and Canada.

Overall we came away impressed with the new tC. With all the improvements in refinement, performance, and interior quality it feels like a substantial car for pricing that starts at $18,275. With an automatic, the 2011 Scion tC will cost $19,725. Delivery is $720 and of course there are all your local taxes and various fees. With Scion’s mono-spec format, they all show up the same and you work with your dealer for accessories or TRD upgrades. And know that your local Scion dealer already has a full catalog of wheels, brakes, suspension and appearance options ready and waiting for the new tC. Woot!

[View with PicLens]

The program is set on specific priced models and dealer added options are extra of course. And best of all the program is aimed toward first time buyers and buyers with shallow credit history. All three cars are based on 12,000 miles per year and equipped with the automatic transmission option. All standard Scion features and equipment are included.

The 2010 Scion xB lease special is $199 a month for 36 months with $849 due at lease signing. The 2010 Scion xD lease is $187 per month for 36 months with $837 due at lease inception. And the popular 2010 Scion tC lease program is $256 per month for 36 months with $906 due when you sign.

The advertised lease payments do not include tax and license which varies from state to state. So you need to expect an extra couple of bucks per month depending on where you live. The Scion Pure Lease also does not have a security deposit.

Like most leases, there are some requirements. For the Scion Pure Lease program if you are a first time buyer the stipulations are; 1) no established credit history, 2) no adverse credit, 3) three verifiable personal references, and 4) a full time job for at least 6 months.

If you are not a first time buyer but still do not have a lot of credit built up yet, Scion also offers their iFinance program. The minimum requirements for that are; 1) at least on satisfactory credit line of $500 or more, 2) no adverse credit, 3) three verifiable personal references, and 4) a full time job for at least 6 months.

So if you meet the qualifications, Scion has a great lineup of programs right now to get you into a 2010 model at a very low monthly payment and down. And in 36 months when the least is up you don’t need to worry about trading it in or selling it, just hand over the keys. The program ends on September 31st.

More information: Scion.com

SEMA Show organizers are seeking the nation’s most active and influential automotive enthusiasts to help identify future trends in the market. As part of the SEMA Enthusiast Opinion Leader Research Project, auto enthusiasts can apply to attend the 2010 SEMA Show and participate in a market research project.

The SEMA Show is an annual trade show that features thousands of new automotive specialty parts and accessories, as well as a spectacular collection of customized and classic vehicles. Serving as the industry’s premier gathering for parts manufacturers to meet with qualified buyers, the SEMA Show is not open to the general public.

“We’re looking for active enthusiasts to help us learn what truly resonates and what doesn’t,” said Thomas Myroniak, SEMA VP of marketing and member services. “Their input will be incredibly valuable and will undoubtedly aid in shaping future plans.”

SEMA launched the Enthusiast Opinion Leader Research Project at the 2009 SEMA Show, with 527 individuals invited to participate from a pool of thousands of applicants. Participants underwent a rigorous qualification process to ensure they were committed and influential automotive enthusiasts. Their input was used to create a series of market research reports, providing SEMA Show exhibitors and the industry with valuable insight and data.

“The information generated from the program was unlike anything else we’ve ever done before,” said Myroniak. “Exhibitors who reviewed the reports have indicated that they are incredibly valuable and will undoubtedly aid in shaping future plans.”

Organizers are expanding on the success and will increase the number of participants in the 2010 program. The program will take place on Friday, November 5, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Participants will get an exclusive preview of thousands of new products and be asked to share their opinions, as well as encouraged to share photos, videos, comments, etc. through their favorite social media. Interested individuals can register for $35 at http://www.sema.org/?q=node/6156 .

Engine:

2.4-liter, 4-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve SFI with VVT-i, aluminum alloy block and head
Compression Ratio: 9.8:1
Horsepower: 161 hp @ 6,000 rpm (2007-2010) 160 hp @ 5,700 rpm (2005-2006)
Torque: 162 lb.-ft. @ 4,000 rpm (2007-2010) 163 lb.-ft. @4000 rpm (2005-2006)
Ignition System: Toyota Direct Ignition (TDI)
Fuel System: Sequential multi-point fuel injection
Recommended Fuel: 87-octane unleaded
Emission Certification: ULEV II

EPA Estimated Fuel Consumption* (mpg) – City/Highway
5M: 20/27
4ECT: 21/29
*2010 EPA MPG Estimates. Actual mileage will vary.

Drivetrain:

Layout: Front-wheel drive
Transmission Type: 4-speed ECT automatic / 5-speed manual
Differential Ratio: 2.740 / 4.235
Chassis and Body:

Suspension Front: Independent MacPherson strut
Suspension Rear: Independent double wishbone

Stabilizer Bar Diameter:
Front/Rear Manual: 0.83/ 0.71 in. (21/ 18 mm)
Front/Rear Auto: 0.83/ 0.79 in. (21/ 20 mm)
Steering Type: Power-assisted rack-and-pinion
Steering Ratio: 17.7
Turns (lock to lock): 3.145 turns
Turning Circle Diameter (curb to curb): 36.1 Ft.
Brakes Front: Ventilated disc/10.83 in.
Brakes Rear: Solid disc/10.59 in.
Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
Standard Wheel Size: 17 x 7.0 in.
Tire Size: P215/45Z R17

Exterior Dimensions:

Wheelbase: 106.3 in.
Overall Length: 174.0 in.
Overall Width: 69.1 in.
Overall Height: 55.7 in.
Tread Width (front/rear): 59.3/59.3 in.
Ground Clearance: 5.2 in.
Coefficient of Drag: 0.32

Interior Dimensions:

Seating Capacity: 5

Weights and Capacities:

Curb Weight: 5M 2,932 lbs. / 4ECT 2,987 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 14.5 gal.
Engine Oil: 4.3 qt. (4.5 L)
Cooling System (manual/auto): 6.4 / 6.3 qt. (6.8 / 6.7 L)

Standard Features:

• 17-inch split six spoke alloy wheels with graphite finish, P215/45Z R17 tires
• Auto-off headlamps
• Chrome exhaust tip
• Fender-mounted antenna
• Keyless entry with electronic rear hatch locking system
• Panoramic moonroof with power retractable front glass panel and dual manual sunshades
• Side mirrors with turn indicators
• Variable intermittent front wiper

• Air conditioning
• Cargo area under-floor storage
• Cargo cover
• Center console box with cover
• Cruise control
• Deep orange instrument panel illumination
• Driver and front passenger vanity mirror with cover
• Driver and passenger power windows with one- touch auto up/down with jam protection
• Driver’s seat with adjustable height and front seat bottom angle (thigh support)
• First-aid kit
• Front sport bucket seats with woven fabric
• Fully reclining front seats with sleeping function
• One-touch walk-in with track and seat angle memory (driver’s side)
• Outside temperature gauge
• Power door locks and outside mirrors
• Power windows with one-touch auto down
• Rear window defogger
• Reclining and 60/40 split folding rear seats
• Sun visor with sliding extension
• Tachometer and trip meter
• Tilt three-spoke steering wheel with audio controls

Source: Toyota Motor Company, subject to change

Engine

2.4-liter, 4-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve SFI with VVT-i, aluminum alloy block and head
Bore x Stroke: 3.48 x 3.78 in.
Compression Ratio: 9.8:1
Horsepower: 158 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 162 lb.-ft. @ 4,000 rpm
Ignition System: Toyota Direct Ignition (TDI)
Fuel System: Sequential multi-point fuel injection
Recommended Fuel: 87-octane unleaded
Emission Certification: ULEV-II

EPA Estimated Fuel Economy* (mpg) – City/Highway
22/28 (5M)
22/28 (4-ECT)
*Actual mileage will vary.

Drivetrain

Layout: Front-wheel drive
Transmission Type: 4-speed ECT automatic/5-speed manual
Differential Ratio; 2.740/4.235

Chassis and Body
Suspension Front: Independent MacPherson Strut with stabilizer bar
Suspension Rear: Torsion beam
Stabilizer Bar Diameter: 1.04 in. (front), Steering – Type Electric power steering
Steering  Ratio: 16.0
Turns (lock to lock): 2.9 turns
Turning Circle Diameter (curb to curb): 34.8 ft.
Brakes Front: Ventilated disc/10.83 in.
Brakes Rear: Solid disc/10.98 in.
Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
Wheel Size: 16 x 6.5 in.
Tire Size: P205/55 R16

Exterior Dimensions:

Wheelbase: 102.4 in.
Overall Length: 167.3 in.
Overall Width: 69.3 in.
Overall Height: 64.7 in. (includes antenna base)
Tread Width (front/rear): 60.0/59.8 in.
Ground Clearance: 5.1 in.
Coefficient of Drag: 0.32

Interior Dimensions:

Seating Capacity: 5

Weights and Capacities
Curb Weight: 3,020 lbs. (manual) / 4ECT 3,086 lbs. (auto)
Fuel Capacity: 14.0 gal.
Engine Oil: 4.3 qt. with filter
Cooling System (manual/auto): 6.3 / 6.2 qt.

Standard Features

• Choice of three wheel cover designs
• Chrome exhaust tip
• Intermittent front wiper
• Multi-reflector halogen headlamps with projector lamp for low beams
• Rear privacy glass
• Rear wiper
• Remote keyless entry
• Roof mounted antenna
• Side mirrors with turn indicators

• 60/40-split, fold flat rear seat
• Air conditioning
• Auto-shift door lock (A/T models)
• Cargo area under-floor storage
• Center console
• Deep orange instrument panel illumination
• Cruise control
• Cup holders
• Digital clock and speedometer
• Driver and front passenger sunvisor with mirror
• Driver’s seat-mounted armrest
• Driver’s seat with adjustable height
• First-aid kit
• Front sport bucket seats with fabric upholstery
• Multi-information display
• Power door locks, outside mirrors and windows with one-touch auto down on driver’s side
• Rear window defogger
• Storage tray under rear seat
• Tachometer and trip meter
• Tilt steering wheel with audio controls

• Auxiliary audio input and iPod/USB connectivity
• Pioneer 160-watt maximum output AM/FM/CD/USB head unit (MP3/WMA/AAC CD and satellite-tuner capable) with six speakers, Scion Sound Processing, a customizable organic electroluminescent (OEL) screen, a subwoofer RCA output and Advanced Sound Retriever (ASR)

• Driver and front passenger airbags SRS, front seat-mounted side airbags and front and rear side curtain airbags SRS
• Vehicle Stability Control and Traction Control
• Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA)
• Three-point front seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters; ALR/ELR retractors on all passenger seatbelts, three-point rear outboard and center seatbelts
• Headrests in all seating positions
• ISOFIX CRS top tether anchor brackets and ISOFIX CRS anchor attachments
• Tire pressure monitor system
• First-aid kit

• 3-year/36,000-mile Comprehensive
• 5-year/60,000-mile Powertrain
• 5-year/unlimited-mileage Corrosion Perforation

Source: Toyota Motor Company, some information subject to change

They take great care to dyno-tuned them to compliment their performance intake systems which we have also talked about here. In doing so, the Injen Super SES provides maximum horsepower and torque across the power band. Their Super SES exhaust system looks like a million bucks because it is manufactured from 100% 304 stainless steel. Each exhaust system features CNC mandrel-bent stainless steel tubing, CNC machined flanges, and robotic TIG welding.

This gives that highly machined quality look, but more importantly a factory fit that makes for an easy installation, though professional installation is recommended. The 60mm piping wraps back to a meaty polished 4” tip for the look we love.

All Injen Exhaust systems comes with everything needed for installation. A detailed installation instruction guide is included as well.  This SES system is available for 2005-2010 Scion tC. Retail pricing varies from about $340-380.

Part Number: INJ-SES2110

More Information: http://www.injen.com/

Running in the ultra high competitive division of Pro Stock on the Pro Racing Association circuit, he again found huge success as a driver finishing in the top five in points until 1999 when he broke through and won his first National Championship. In 2000 Scott turned his attention to the newly formed NHRA Sport Compact Circuit.

Over the next five years Scott made quite a name for himself finishing in the top five in points over that period of time and adding another National Championship Title in 2001. In 2001 Scott also captured both ends of the NHRA National Records for Elapsed Time and Speed.

He also ranks number 3 on the NHRA Sport Compact All Motor Winningest Driver list with an impressive 6 National Event Wins. 2005 was a year of change as Scott parked his now legendary Toyo Tires Bullet Fastback and partnered with Toyota Racing Development and Toyo Tires and built a state of the art tube chassis Toyota Corolla XRS.

The new “Bullet” debuted with much fanfare and did not disappoint running as good as it looked covering the quarter mile in the mid nine second range at speeds over 145 miles per hour. Now in 2010 Scott has partnered with Scion to build one of the most unique drag cars ever built, a Scion xB.

The car will sport an all new look and will be powered by the current NHRA Super Stock EX Record Holding power plants. As one of the premier drivers on the NHRA circuit Scott looks to the future with great optimism and with good reason.

That reason can be summed up with two words … Scion Racing. With Scion power and Scott’s incredible driving skills look for them to stay atop the NHRA Super Stock class and bring home many more National Records, Event Wins and National Titles!

Car/Driver Profile:

DIVISION: NHRA Super Stock/BOTI Pro Stock
RACE CAR: 2010 Scion xB
ENGINE: 2.6L Toyota 3RZ
CREW: Larry Kelley
HOME: Anaheim Hills, CA

Source: Scion Racing

The Takeda Attack Intake is a true cold air intake. In recent testing the company provided, the intake is said to produce 5hp and 5lbs. x ft. of torque. Takeda intakes are constructed out of lightweight clear-coat anodized tubing for maximum air flow and a great style.

Each intake uses a large 360 degree high flow PRO Dry S air filter for maximum flow, filtration and convenience. The PRO Dry S air filter requires no oils and cleans with simple soap and water. Takeda intakes come complete with all tubing, filters, couplers and hardware for an easy installation.

Package Includes:

* Intake Piping
* Filter
* Silicone Couplers (If Applicable)
* Mounting Hardware
* Instruction Manual

Model Number:  TA-2005P

Even our 2004 Scion xB as small as it is in footprint requires a very careful and slow approach and getting it in the right spot so we can close the garage door behind it. We have to get it right up against the cabinets close, but not so close that we hit something. And at night we often get one another to spot the distance while the other drives the car in just to be sure we don’t hit anything. It has been a pain in the you know what.

The good news is that we finally found a new toy that has made the whole process easier for both the wife and I. The LED Stop Sign Garage Helper from SteedShop.com sits in the garage at the spot where we need to stop. When we drive the car in we slowly approach the flexible plastic post until the bumper touches the sign. When that happens, it lights up with flashing LED lights.

The sign is mounted on a stout plastic base and has a spring mount at the bottom. So you can kiss it pretty good with your bumper and it just bends out of the way. The pole is made of a flexible plastic that is a lot like a fishing pole, so it wont hurt your paint. It stands about 48″ tall so seeing it over the hood of our xB is no issue. It is compatible with all cars however regardless of bumper height.

It took about five minutes to put together and only needed two screws to be tightened to hold the base together. The rest of it snaps together and it come with two small batteries already installed and ready to go. It costs about $23 bucks and is exactly what we have been wanting for a long time.

More information: SteedShop.com

Toyota has announced the first group of chosen dealerships in Canada who will sell the cars. Like in the States, carefully chosen franchises will carve out a space within their existing stores to provide a Scion environment.

Scion will utilize the same straight-sell strategy as in the States where the traditional haggle and dance process is supposed to be simple and pure. Customers should be able to build their Scion online, then complete the purchase process at the dealership without encountering any haze and maze from salesmen.

Scion has announced 40+ dealers that will be located in Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver to open in September of this year. The three models that will be sold in Canada are the tC, xB, and xD. Early in 2011, the new Smart-Car challenger iQ will come online in Canada too.

“This is a great time to launch SCION in Canada,” said Larry Hutchinson, Director of SCION in Canada. “As the auto industry emerges from recession, one of the largest and youngest demographics will be entering the marketplace. Young buyers will be looking to the ever-growing small car market. They are not only looking for a safe, high-quality and fuel efficient vehicle, it is important to them that the vehicle reflects their personality and lifestyle, and the stylish and trendy SCION brand will be there to fulfill that need.”

Here is the list of Canadian Scion dealers:

Montreal

Houle Toyota
Chambly Toyota
Chomedey Toyota
Spinelli Point Claire Toyota
Brossard Toyota
Duval Toyota
Gabriel Toyota
Chateauguay Toyota
Toyota Montreal Nord
Chasse Toyota
Ste-Therese Toyota
Toyota Candiac
Vimont Toyota
Toyota St-Leonard
Longueuil Toyota
Repentigny Toyota
Toyota President
Woodland Toyota

Toronto

Wietzes Toyota
Oakville Toyota
Don Valley North Toyota
Attrell Toyota
Scarborough Toyota
Mississauga Toyota
Markville Toyota
Northwest Toyota
Aurora Toyota
Whitby Toyota
Burlington Toyota
Yorkdale Toyota
Milton Toyota
Woodbine Toyota
Maple Toyota
Meadowvale Toyota
Brimell Toyota
Woodbridge Toyota
Toyota on Front
Erin Park Toyota

Vancouver

OpenRoad Port Moody
Jim Pattison North Shore
Jim Pattison Surrey
Langley Toyota
OpenRoad Richmond
Valley Toyota
Jim Pattison Downtown