The problem with most affordable, fuel-efficient cars is that they are about as much fun to drive as a golf cart.

Scion does something about that with the tC, a little coupe that’s not as edgy looking as its stable mates, the xB and xD, but which compensates for that with well-equipped sportiness.

Make no mistake, this is no tire-smokin’ drifter — though the dealer will gladly sell you and install the parts, if that’s what you want.

In its essential form, though, the tC, with a base price of $17,000, is a nicely balanced, agile machine with some pop in the ...

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