Scion tC
26 MPG The 2016 Scion tC is EPA-rated at 26 MPG combined (23 city / 30 highway). Over 15,000 miles a year that is about 577 gallons, $1846 a year in fuel, or $0.123 per mile at $3.20/gal.
Across its full 2005–2016 run it averages 24.3 MPG, improving by 3.5 MPG over 12 model years.
Running cost at different fuel prices and mileages
The figure everyone actually wants, and the one the EPA does not publish — because it depends on a fuel price no agency will commit to.
| Fuel price | Per mile | 10,000 mi/yr | 15,000 mi/yr | 20,000 mi/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2.50/gal | $0.096 | $962 | $1442 | $1923 |
| $3.00/gal | $0.115 | $1154 | $1731 | $2308 |
| $3.20/gal | $0.123 | $1231 | $1846 | $2462 |
| $3.50/gal | $0.135 | $1346 | $2019 | $2692 |
| $4.00/gal | $0.154 | $1538 | $2308 | $3077 |
| $4.50/gal | $0.173 | $1731 | $2596 | $3462 |
| $5.00/gal | $0.192 | $1923 | $2885 | $3846 |
Every model year
| Year | Combined | City | Highway | EPA fuel cost/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Trims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 26 MPG | 23 | 30 | $2400 | 342 | 2 |
| 2015 | 26 MPG | 23 | 30 | $2400 | 342 | 2 |
| 2014 | 26 MPG | 23 | 30 | $2400 | 342 | 2 |
| 2013 | 25 MPG | 22.5 | 30 | $2500 | 348 | 2 |
| 2012 | 25 MPG | 22.5 | 30 | $2500 | 355 | 2 |
| 2011 | 25 MPG | 22.5 | 30 | $2500 | 355 | 2 |
| 2010 | 23.5 MPG | 20.5 | 28 | $2650 | 378 | 2 |
| 2009 | 23.5 MPG | 20.5 | 28 | $2650 | 378 | 2 |
| 2008 | 23.5 MPG | 20.5 | 28 | $2650 | 378 | 2 |
| 2007 | 23.5 MPG | 20.5 | 28 | $2650 | 378 | 2 |
| 2006 | 22.5 MPG | 19.5 | 27 | $2775 | 395 | 2 |
| 2005 | 22.5 MPG | 19.5 | 27 | $2775 | 395 | 2 |
Where a model year offered several engines or drivetrains, the figure is the average across all EPA-tested trims that year — the trim count is shown so you can see how much averaging is involved.
How it compares in its class
Among the 229 subcompact cars models tracked here, the Scion tC ranks 62 on current figures, against a class average of 24.2 MPG.
Closest more-efficient alternatives in the same class: Suzuki Esteem (26.3), Geo Prizm (26.5), Mitsubishi Precis (26.5), Suzuki Swift (26.5), Eagle Summit (26.8).
Tailpipe CO₂ is rated at 342 grams per mile, which works out to roughly 5.1 tonnes a year at 15,000 miles.
Questions
What MPG does the Scion tC get?
The 2016 Scion tC is rated at 26 MPG combined by the EPA — 23 city and 30 highway. Across all 12 model years in the database it averages 24.3 MPG, ranging from 22 to 26 depending on year and trim.
How much does a Scion tC cost in fuel per year?
At 26 MPG and 15,000 miles a year, it burns about 577 gallons — roughly $1846 a year with fuel at $3.20 a gallon, or $0.123 per mile. The EPA's own published annual figure for the 2016 model is $2400.
Has the Scion tC become more efficient over time?
Yes. It has gone from 22.5 MPG in 2005 to 26 in 2016 — an improvement of 3.5 MPG, or 16% across 12 model years.
Is the Scion tC efficient for its class?
It ranks 62 of 229 in the Subcompact Cars class on current figures, against a class average of 24.2 MPG. That is 1.8 better than typical for the class.
EPA test figures from fueleconomy.gov. Cost per mile and annual fuel spend are computed at a reference price of $3.20 per gallon — use your own price. Estimates based on official test figures and average fuel prices. Real-world consumption varies with driving style, load, terrain and maintenance.