Arriving in dealerships later this month, the new 2013 Scion tC Release Series 8.0 combines a high profile appearance with several trick performance enhancements. Production of this ultimate factory-built Scion tC will be limited to 2,000 units, all finished in Absolute Red set off by gloss black mirrors and matching 18-inch alloy wheels. Other exterior cosmetic changes on the RS 8.0 include a five-piece body kit that includes edgier front and rear lower valence panels, side skirts and a custom rear spoiler, all inspired by Troy Sumitomo who heads up Scion‘s favorite design house, Five Axis.
Cabin tweaks on the Scion tC RS 8.0 center on sport seats covered in a unique texturized black fabric with red contrast stitching and a leather wrapped steering wheel. Versions fitted with the optional 6-speed automatic transmission also feature steering wheel-mounted shifter paddles, and all RS 8.0 models will come with an individually numbered I.D. badge.
While the Scion tC’s powertrain remains unchanged, the 180-horsepower 4-cylinder engine in the RS 8.0 does benefit from a custom exhaust system designed by Toyota Racing Development that includes a distinctive trapezoid-shaped outlet integrated into the rear diffuser panel. A set of TRD springs also is part of the RS 8.0’s component mix, lowering the car’s ride height and sharpening its handling responses.
Pricing for the 2013 Scion tC RS 8.0 starts at $22,545 for cars with the standard 6-speed manual transmission while versions with the 6-speed autoshifter carry a $23,595 base sticker.
