Scion sets stickers for the 2012 tC Release Series, xB

Toyota has released pricing details for the 2012 Scion tC Release Series and the 2012 xB.

The tC Release Series 7.0 will come only with high-voltage-yellow exterior paint, black wheels and black side mirrors. The coupe will get a Toyota Racing Development body kit that includes front and rear valances, side skirts and a stylized front bumper. The lower opening has a honeycomb grille, which sets the Release Series apart from the standard tC.

Inside, the tC gets more high-voltage yellow in the stitching and accents. All Release Series cars will get individual numbered badges. It comes well appointed at $21,625 for the manual-transmission car and $22,625 for the four-speed automatic. The prices include shipping charges.

In addition to the bodywork, the Release Series includes a push-button start system, a 300-watt Pioneer sound system, Bluetooth, HD radio and USB audio input. The eight-speaker system includes an RCA output on the head unit so buyers can connect their own amplifiers and subwoofers. The system also offers a customizable welcome screen that lets users create a personal message of up to 16 characters.

The Scion tC coupe will use the same 2.5-liter, 180-hp engine as last year, with power being channeled to the front wheels. The base 2012 Scion tC will cost $19,295 with a manual and $1,000 more with an automatic transmission.

The boxy 2012 xB will now come with Bluetooth and HD-radio technology as standard equipment. The Pioneer radio options are a bit less powerful but the features are there. Like the tC, the system has an electroluminescent screen that displays MP3 player information and adjusts volume for driving speed.

A manual-equipped 2012 xB, arriving in July, will set you back $17,020, while the automatic version will cost $17,970. Those prices include the $720 destination charge.

The xB will continue on with a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine making 158 hp and returning 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway with either transmission.

By Jake Lingeman