2011 Scion tC to Start at $18,275

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At a California press event this week, Scion announced the 2011 tC will start at $18,275 with a manual transmission. The automatic tC, which Scion expects to account for some 70% of sales, will run $19,275. The front-wheel-drive coupe goes on sale Oct. 1; neither price includes Scion’s $720 destination charge.

That represents an increase of $1,175 to $1,375 over the 2010 tC, depending on transmission. Like its predecessor, the tC comes in one trim with a healthy list of standard features, such as power windows and locks, keyless entry, panoramic moonroof, air conditioning and cruise control. A navigation system will be one of the few available options with most other accessories at the dealer level.

Besides being nominally larger outside and in, the new tC adds larger alloy wheels (18-inchers versus 17s), a telescoping leather steering wheel and an iPod/USB compatible stereo. A stronger drivetrain, more airbags and an electronic stability system are also included.

Similar money could buy a well-equipped Kia Forte Koup SX or Honda’s Civic coupe EX, but Scion Vice President Jack Hollis said top cross-shops for the tC include the Mazda3 — an indicator that price matters as much as body style.

We had a chance to drive the tC, you can find our impressions here.