With all the hype surrounding the Scion FR-S, it's easy forget that the Scion tC coupe is the starter brand's most popular model. From 2005 through 2007, the Scion tC accounted for nearly half of all Scion sales.
However, Scion and Toyota later focused its attention on developing the FR-S halo car for the young brand. A highly acclaimed front-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car, Scion finally earned the enthusiast model it's always deserved. However, the shift in attention caused Scion to neglect its volume seller. By 2010, tC sales dropped to just 15,204 units (compared to 79,125 in 2006).
An interesting correlation, South Korean compact coupes including the Kia Forte and the Hyundai Veloster and Elantra Coupe began to gain popularity as demand for the tC steadily declined. Make no mistake -- the success of the next-generation tC is crucial for Scion.
Toyota and Scion are keeping information on the next tC close to its chest. Earlier this morning, the company finally revealed a dark overhead outline of the next 2014 tC.
Despite the rising competition in compact coupes, sources expect the next 2014 Scion tC will be more evolutionary than revolutionary. Horsepower isn't expected to increase significantly from its current 180 hp and 173 lb.-ft. of torque in order to maintain a gap from the top-of-the-line FR-S.
According to Scion, an official public unveiling will be held at the upcoming 2013 New York International Auto Show. Stay tuned as we learn more about the new tC in the week ahead.
