Are Scion cars good?
Yes. Scion cars are generally considered good value in the used-car market, offering Toyota-based reliability with approachable pricing and, in several cases, engaging driving dynamics. Because the Scion brand was discontinued in 2016, model-by-model reliability and parts support vary, so buyers should review individual histories and verify parts compatibility with Toyota models.
Brand history and what Scion offered to buyers
Scion was created by Toyota in the early 2000s to attract younger buyers with affordable, simple cars built on proven Toyota underpinnings. The lineup emphasized compact efficiency, practical hatchbacks, and a sportier edge with the Scion tC and the rear-wheel-drive FR-S. In 2016, Toyota retired the Scion brand and folded most models into Toyota (and Lexus for some lines), with notable name changes like the FR-S becoming the Toyota 86 and the iM becoming the Toyota Corolla iM. The move aimed to streamline parts and dealer networks, but it also left some models with a more complicated ownership path for current and prospective buyers.
Notable Scion models and what they offered
Here is a quick guide to standout Scion models and what they brought to the table in terms of practicality, reliability and driving experience:
- Scion xA — A compact, efficient starter car built on solid Toyota engineering; praised for low upkeep and thriftiness, with room for improvement in interior materials by today’s standards.
- Scion xB — A roomy, uniquely styled hatchback with flexible cargo space and a loyal following among practical buyers and tuners alike; later generations grew more polarizing in appearance but retained versatility.
- Scion xD — A compact hatch with good fuel economy and modest but usable interior space; valued for cheap ownership costs, though it shows its age in tech and comfort by modern standards.
- Scion tC — A sporty coupe that offered a balance of daily usability and driver engagement; known for a fun-to-drive character but criticized at times for cheap interior materials on earlier versions.
- Scion FR-S (now Toyota 86/GR86 in the current lineup) — The enthusiast’s pick in the lineup: light, rear-wheel drive, and precise handling; power is adequate but not punchy, which many buyers view as a deliberate, balanced choice; ownership today is bolstered by strong aftermarket support and a loyal community.
- Scion iQ — A microcar crafted for city living with excellent parking dynamics and high efficiency; its small size means limited practicality for more than one passenger or cargo beyond basics.
- Scion iM (and later Toyota Corolla iM) — A practical hatchback that offered a roomy interior and solid reliability, serving as a bridge model between the Scion era and Toyota’s current hatchbacks.
Taken together, the Scion lineup covered everything from budget commuter cars to a genuine performance-oriented option with the FR-S, all built on Toyota-sourced platforms. The core strengths across the range often centered on reliability, ease of maintenance, and affordability, while some models showed aging interiors or limited power compared with modern compact rivals.
Buying considerations for used Scions today
Before buying a used Scion, buyers should consider how well the specific model has aged and how easy it will be to source parts and service. The following points help frame the decision:
- Brand discontinuation and parts compatibility — While many mechanical parts are shared with Toyota vehicles, Scion-branded parts and dealer support for older models may be harder to find.
- Model-by-model reliability — Most Scion models are built on proven Toyota platforms, but age and model-specific issues (interior wear, suspension components, or electronics) can vary widely by year and trim.
- Safety and recalls — Check for open recalls and ensure safety features remain up to date; Takata airbag recalls and other campaigns affected several Toyota-based vehicles in this era.
- Maintenance history — A detailed service history matters more for aging vehicles; verify timing chains/belts, fluids, and prior accidents or insurance claims.
- Ownership costs — Insurance, tires, and fuel economy are generally reasonable, especially for the FR-S/86 and the more economical hatchbacks, but performance variants can have higher maintenance costs over time.
- Frugality vs. modern tech — Early Scion models tend to lack the latest infotainment and safety features found in newer Toyotas; consider whether older tech meets your needs.
In practice, a well-maintained Scion—particularly the FR-S/86, or the practical xB and iM variants—can still deliver dependable, enjoyable ownership. The key is careful shopping, a thorough inspection, and confirmation that parts and service align with current Toyota networks.
Bottom line and recommendations
The Scion brand offered value-driven vehicles with a mix of practicality and performance character. For buyers today, the strongest options tend to be the sports-oriented FR-S/86 for driving enthusiasts and the more utilitarian xB or iM variants for daily practicality. Expect to navigate some brand discontinuation realities, especially around parts availability and official Scion support, but rely on Toyota’s extensive service and parts backbone for maintenance and repairs. If you value affordable ownership with a touch of driving fun, Scion models remain respectable choices in the used-car market when properly vetted.
Summary
Overall, Scion cars are a good value proposition in the used-car market, offering reliable Toyota engineering, approachable prices, and a spectrum from practical hatchbacks to a celebrated sports coupe. The brand’s closure means buyers should prioritize model-specific histories and verify parts compatibility with Toyota vehicles. When well-chosen and well-maintained, Scion models can still provide dependable, enjoyable transportation with a dash of enthusiast appeal.
Is a Scion really a Toyota?
The Scion brand started as a youth-oriented division of Toyota, offering smaller, less-expensive coupes and hatchbacks with sportier designs.
What are the bad years for Scion?
Avoid Scion years with known oil consumption issues, such as Scion tC models from 2007–2009 and Scion tC models from 2004–2016 which can have excessive oil burning from worn piston rings or sludge buildup. Scion xB models from 2009–2015 should also be checked for potential airbag recall issues due to defective inflator modules.
Engine and oil consumption
- Scion tC 2004–2016: These models are known for excessive oil consumption. The cause can be worn piston rings or sludge from infrequent oil changes, often requiring an oil change every 3,000 miles to prevent future issues.
- Scion tC 2007–2009: Specifically, the 2.4L engine in these models is known to have a manufacturing defect with faulty piston rings that causes excessive oil consumption.
- Scion tC 2004–2016: The 2006 model year had reported alignment issues and engine ticking noises.
- Scion tC 2014–2016: Some owners report that the 2nd generation manual transmission input shaft bearing is known to fail.
Airbag issues
- Scion xB 2009–2015: These models were subject to recalls for potentially exploding airbag inflators, which could injure occupants.
Other
- Scion tC: Some sources mention potential engine issues in the 2.4L engine from model years 2007-2009.
- Scion iQ: Some sources suggest that these are not reliable cars.
Do scions last long?
Typical Scions will last around 200,000 miles, which is an okay number. The Scion matches right up with this standard. Keep reading to learn more about the cars like Honda Elements that you can invest in for your method of transportation.
Is Scion a reliable car brand?
As a division of Toyota, Scion cars are generally considered reliable. RepairPal gave Toyota an overall reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent.
