Well... I have actually driven a Scion Tc. It was OK, but overall, I think the Mazda3 is a better choice for a small sporty car. With normal dealing, the 3 is similarly priced, if not less expensive, compared to the Tc.
The 2.4 litre engine from the Camry is nicely torquey, with low end pull. However, it runs out of breath in the higher rpms. Handling is also stable and secure without being nimble and fun. It's really a rather stolid little car in sporty clothing.
Room... well... don't be tall. I am 6'2" and I did not fit in the car. If the seat could have been moved lower, headroom could have been just adequate. Leg room was clearly inadequate to the pedals. The rear seat can fit two average size adults without too much discomfort. The interior is plain though well constructed. A $17,000 car needs to have something in the form of Ambience, though.
Build quality was less than I would have expected in a Toyota product. There was a rattle in the dask and a VERY annoying squeak somewhere I could not determine.
I was pleasantly surprised to find the Tc is in fact, a hatchback. However, think room like the RSX. The cargo area is shallow and narrow and the folding rear seat doesn't add much due to the hatch beginning further back due to the gimmicky sun port over the rear seat. Not a cargo hauler.
Keep in mind that Scion has a one-price philosophy where the car sells for list price. That makes the car relatively expensive to other cars in its class. They also have quite possibly the most annoying brochure I have ever encountered. It's almost ashamed to be informative about the cars, but rather is a lifestyle magazine.
Overall, I think the car has sporty looks that promise more than the driving experience can deliver, and limit the utility of the vehicle. There are better choices.
Besides, every time I see the name I think of that Maserati built LeBaron Convertible...
