The Scion FR-S notably replaced the Scion tC in the context of the Toyota Pro/Celebrity Race.
Role in the Toyota Pro/Celebrity Race
The Scion tC, a compact sports coupe, played a significant role in the annual Toyota Pro/Celebrity Race, an event historically held during the Long Beach Grand Prix. This front-wheel-drive coupe was utilized for the competitive event from 2006 through 2012. Following its tenure, the race series transitioned to using the Scion FR-S as its primary vehicle, starting from 2013.
Here's a look at the transition for the race series:
| Race Vehicle | Years Used in Race |
|---|---|
| Scion tC | 2006 - 2012 |
| Scion FR-S | 2013 onwards |
The Scion tC's Place in the Market
The Scion tC was designed as an affordable and sporty option, appealing to a younger demographic with its customizable nature and accessible price point. It was a key model within the Scion lineup, offering a blend of coupe styling and practicality.
The Scion Brand and Its Aftermath
The Scion brand, Toyota's youth-oriented division, was ultimately discontinued in 2016. While some of Scion's popular models, such as the FR-S (which became the Toyota 86 and later the Toyota GR86) and the iM (which became the Toyota Corolla iM), were rebadged and integrated into the main Toyota lineup, the Scion tC did not receive a direct, identically positioned successor under the Toyota brand. The FR-S, while also a sporty coupe, offered a rear-wheel-drive platform, a distinct difference from the front-wheel-drive tC. Therefore, in a broader market context, there wasn't a one-for-one replacement for the tC's specific market niche.
