The all-new 2011 Scion tC is set to debut with new styling, better gas mileage and a faster engine. The changes should help boost the tC's desirability in the affordable, youth-oriented market. Keep reading to learn more about the new 2011 Scion tC.

New 2011 Scion tC Performance

The Scion tC has always been marketed as a performance-oriented compact car. This legacy continues with the introduction of a new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The new power plant takes advantage of several efficiency features – from lightweight engine technologies and roller rocker arms to dual variable valve timing and a variable induction intake manifold – to deliver a car that is both faster and more fuel-efficient.

As a result of these engine upgrades, the Scion tC now offers 180 horsepower – a full 19 horses more than the previous model. An additional 11 lb-ft. of torque should also improve acceleration.

Though Toyota gives no indication of what EPA fuel ratings should be, drivers can expect a one or two-mpg boost in all-around performance.

Other New Changes for the 2011 Scion tC

The new 2011 Scion tC has been redesigned inside and out. On the outside, Toyota amps up the styling to create a much bolder and aggressive vehicle. Inside, the tC manages to deliver unique youth-oriented styling while keeping costs low. This results in more than a few hard-plastic accessories, but budget-conscious teens shouldn't mind too much. As with the last model, seating is exceptionally comfortable. The tC also adds monitoring gauges that help ...

Rear seat passenger space is good for its class, and a reclining feature really helps additional passengers achieve maximum comfort.

Many will be pleased to learn that Toyota has boosted the Scion tC's list of standard safety features. New for the year is a front passenger knee airbag – a rare feature for the compact vehicle class. The new addition brings the total number of airbags up to eight. A tire pressure monitoring system and new active front headrests also help improve safety for the new model.

New 2011 Scion tC Pricing

The new Scion tC comes with a very attractive base price tag of $18,275. Drivers who want an automatic transmission can expect to pay at least $19,275. Perceptive shoppers will note that this is slightly higher than the 2010 base price of $17,100. However, the upgrades made to the 2011 model seem to justify the additional cost.