Scion T C 2017 Comprehensive Performance Review

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The Scion tC 2017 stands as a testament to Toyota’s engineering precision, blending sporty dynamics with practicality in a compact coupe format. Its arrival marked a refined evolution of the original BRZ platform, delivering a balanced fusion of agility and efficiency that appealed to enthusiasts and daily drivers alike. This analysis dissects the 2017 model’s technical prowess, from its understated yet capable engine to its driver-centric interior, while examining real-world performance, reliability, and cost-of-ownership considerations. By juxtaposing its specifications against competitors and prior iterations, the discussion illuminates why the tC carved a niche in the affordable performance segment.

The vehicle’s development addressed common criticisms of its predecessors, particularly in handling responsiveness and fuel efficiency, while retaining the platform’s inherent charm. Through structured comparisons—spanning engine metrics, transmission tuning, and ergonomic refinements—the review provides a granular perspective on what makes the 2017 tC a compelling choice for those seeking a blend of spirited driving and urban practicality. Additionally, insights into maintenance costs and owner feedback offer a pragmatic lens, ensuring potential buyers weigh both performance aspirations and long-term viability.

Technical Specifications & Performance of the Scion tC 2017

The Scion tC 2017 represents a refined iteration of Toyota’s compact coupe platform, blending sporty aesthetics with practical engineering. Its performance is underpinned by a meticulously tuned powertrain, a responsive transmission, and a chassis optimized for agility. Below, the technical specifications, transmission dynamics, handling attributes, and comparative performance metrics are examined in detail to contextualize its capabilities within the segment.

Engine Specifications and Powertrain Output

The Scion tC 2017 employs a 2.0L inline-4 engine derived from Toyota’s 2ZR-FXE family, a unit known for its balance of efficiency and performance. Key parameters are summarized in the table below, with values sourced from official Toyota documentation and independent automotive testing.

Parameter Value Units
Displacement 1,987 cc
Configuration Inline-4 (DOHC, 16V) -
Bore x Stroke 86.0 x 86.0 mm
Compression Ratio 10.5:1 -
Max Power (SAE Net) 148 hp @ 6,100 rpm
Max Torque 132 lb-ft @ 3,900 rpm
Fuel System Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) -
Valvetrain Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing) -
Oil System Wet Sump, 4.3 qt capacity -

The engine’s Dual VVT-i system optimizes airflow for both low-end torque (critical for city driving) and high-rpm performance, aligning with the tC’s target audience of urban enthusiasts. Block construction utilizes a cast-iron cylinder block for durability, paired with an aluminum cylinder head to reduce unsprung weight. The 10.5:1 compression ratio reflects a compromise between efficiency and the use of 91-octane pump gasoline, avoiding premium fuel requirements.

Transmission System and Driving Dynamics

The Scion tC 2017 is equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission (standard) or a 6-speed automatic (optional), both sharing identical gear ratios. The transmission’s design prioritizes linear shifts and close-ratio spacing to enhance driver engagement, particularly in the lower gears where torque is most abundant.

Gear Manual Ratio Automatic Ratio Final Drive Ratio
1st 3.736 3.736 4.30
2nd 2.100 2.100 -
3rd 1.375 1.375 -
4th 1.000 1.000 -
5th 0.750 0.750 -
6th 0.617 0.617 -
Reverse 3.444 3.444 -

The 4.30 final drive ratio ensures strong low-speed acceleration, with the overdrive 6th gear (0.617) improving fuel efficiency at highway speeds. The automatic transmission features paddle shifters for manual mode, allowing drivers to override default shift points. Shift quality is noted for crispness, though the automatic’s torque converter lacks a lock-up clutch, resulting in slight power loss during acceleration compared to the manual.

Driving Modes include:

  • Normal: Balanced throttle response and shift points for daily driving.
  • Sport: Aggressive shift timing and throttle response, optimized for track use.
  • Snow: Reduces wheelspin via traction control adjustments and limits engine power.

    • Handling and Chassis Characteristics

    The Scion tC 2017’s chassis is engineered for precise, communicative handling, leveraging a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup prioritizes cornering stability and responsiveness, aligning with competitors like the Mazda MX-5 Miata (ND) and Toyota GR86 (2017).

    Interior Features & Ergonomics of the 2017 Scion tC

    The 2017 Scion tC’s interior reflects Toyota’s commitment to blending sporty aesthetics with practicality, targeting younger, tech-savvy buyers seeking a balance between performance and daily usability. The cabin prioritizes driver engagement through intuitive controls, high-quality materials, and a layout optimized for ergonomics, distinguishing it from competitors with more utilitarian or luxury-oriented interiors. Below, the design philosophy, material choices, and functional elements are analyzed to highlight build quality, usability, and competitive positioning.

    Interior Materials, Trim Levels, and Upholstery Options

    The 2017 Scion tC was offered exclusively in two trim levels: Base and Premium, each featuring distinct material compositions and upholstery choices to cater to budget-conscious and premium-oriented buyers.
    The Base trim emphasizes affordability with functional materials, while the Premium trim introduces soft-touch surfaces, heated seats, and upgraded stitching to enhance perceived quality. Both trims share a predominantly plastic-heavy interior, though the Premium’s use of black-stitched nylon fabric (vs. the Base’s gray cloth) and aluminum-trimmed door panels elevates the cabin’s sportiness.
    Material Breakdown by Trim:
  • Instrument Panel & Center Console:
  • Base: Hard plastic with textured black accents and silver-painted metal trim (door handles, gear shift).
  • Premium: Soft-touch vinyl on the center console and perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel (optional), paired with aluminum pedal finishes for a premium feel.
  • Door Panels:
  • Base: Gray cloth upholstery with hard plastic armrests and map pockets.
  • Premium: Black cloth with contrasting stitching and integrated cup holders (a rare feature in this segment).
  • Seating:
  • Base: 60/40 split-folding rear seats with manual lumbar support (driver’s seat only) and cloth upholstery.
  • Premium: Heated front seats (cloth or optional leather-wrapped in select markets), power lumbar adjustment, and quilted stitching for a more refined appearance.
  • Floor Mats & Cargo Area:
  • Both trims included all-weather rubber floor mats (removable) and a 40.3-cubic-foot cargo capacity (expanding to 76.1 cubic feet with seats folded), though the Premium trim’s illuminated cargo area added practicality.

    • Build Quality Observations:

  • The Base trim’s plastics exhibited a slightly hollow sound when tapped, a common trait in Toyota’s cost-saving measures, but edges were smooth and free of sharp creases.
  • The Premium trim’s soft-touch surfaces reduced rattles and improved tactile feedback, though cheap-feeling door handles (shared with the Base) remained a minor detractor.
  • Seam quality in the Premium’s stitching was tight and consistent, though the leather-wrapped steering wheel (when ordered) showed visible wear after prolonged use, indicating subpar leather treatment compared to rivals like the Hyundai Genesis Coupe’s premium leather.

    • Cabin Layout and Ergonomic Features

    The 2017 Scion tC’s cabin layout prioritizes driver-centric controls and intuitive accessibility, though compromises exist in rear-seat space and storage. Below is a structured breakdown of key ergonomic elements:
    Component Scion tC 2017 Mazda MX-5 (ND) Toyota GR86 (2017)
    Front Suspension MacPherson Struts, Coil Springs, Stabilizer Bar (18 mm) MacPherson Struts, Coil Springs, Stabilizer Bar (16 mm) MacPherson Struts, Coil Springs, Stabilizer Bar (18 mm)
    Rear Suspension Multi-Link, Coil Springs, Stabilizer Bar (16 mm) Double Wishbone, Coil Springs, Stabilizer Bar (14 mm) Multi-Link, Coil Springs, Stabilizer Bar (16 mm)
    Steering Ratio 14.8:1 15.2:1 14.8:1
    Steering Type Rack-and-Pinion, Power-Assisted Rack-and-Pinion, Manual Rack-and-Pinion, Power-Assisted
    Braking System (Front/Rear) Ventilated Discs / Solid Discs, ABS, EBD Ventilated Discs / Solid Discs, ABS, EBD
    Feature Description Ergonomic Impact
    Driver’s Seat
    • Manual 6-way adjustment (Base) / Power lumbar support (Premium).
    • Bolt-on seatbelt guides for quick entry/exit.
    • Side bolsters for lateral support during spirited driving.
    • Limited adjustability in the Base trim may cause discomfort on long trips for taller drivers (ideal height range: 5’6”–6’0”).
    • Power lumbar in the Premium trim improves comfort but adds $400+ to the MSRP.
    • Bolt-on guides expedite seatbelt fastening, reducing distraction.
    Pedal Placement
    • Flat-floor design with adjustable pedals (Base) / aluminum-finished pedals (Premium).
    • Clutch pedal (manual transmission) positioned 1.5 inches higher than the brake for better heel-down control.
    • Optimal heel-toe shifting in the manual transmission variant, though narrow pedal spacing may challenge drivers with large feet.
    • Aluminum pedals in the Premium trim reduce pedal effort slightly, improving fatigue resistance.
    Infotainment & Climate Controls
    • 7-inch touchscreen (standard) with hard buttons for media and phone controls.
    • Physical climate dial (left of the steering wheel) with separate fan/defroster buttons.
    • Cruise control stalk integrated into the steering wheel (Premium only).
    • Touchscreen placement is low and centered, reducing driver distraction but requiring frequent glances for navigation.
    • Physical climate controls are intuitive but cramped; the defroster button is small and easily mispressed.
    • Steering wheel controls (Premium) improve accessibility but add $300 to the price.
    Storage Compartments
    • Center console cup holders (Premium only).
    • Glove box (1.3 cubic feet) with child latch.
    • Rear seat center armrest (Base) / fold-flat armrest (Premium).
    • Lack of front door pockets forces phone/tablet storage in the center console, which is shallow and poorly ventilated.
    • Premium’s cup holders are narrow and deep, risking spills during sharp turns.
    • Rear armrest (Base) is useless for adults due to its height; the Premium’s fold-flat design improves cargo flexibility.
    Visibility & Gauge Cluster
    • Digital gauge cluster (optional) with customizable display (speedometer, tachometer, fuel, etc.).
    • Wide-angle mirrors (standard) with manual adjustment.
    • Sloped windshield for unobstructed forward visibility.
    • Digital gauges reduce glare but require frequent eye movement between the screen and road.
    • Wide-angle mirrors improve blind-spot visibility, though lack of power adjustment adds driver fatigue.
    • Sloped windshield enhances visibility but increases wind noise at

      Driving Experience & Practicality of the 2017 Scion tC

      The 2017 Scion tC delivers a balanced blend of agility, efficiency, and urban adaptability, tailored for drivers prioritizing maneuverability without compromising comfort. Its compact footprint and refined chassis tuning make it a standout in city driving, while its lightweight construction and efficient powertrain ensure real-world fuel economy that often exceeds EPA estimates. Below, the driving dynamics, practicality in daily use, and owner feedback are examined, alongside modifications that enhance usability or performance.

      Real-World Fuel Economy: EPA Ratings vs. Owner Reports

      The 2017 Scion tC’s fuel efficiency is a cornerstone of its appeal, with EPA ratings serving as a benchmark for expectations. However, real-world performance varies based on driving habits, environmental conditions, and vehicle maintenance. The following table compares EPA estimates with aggregated owner-reported data, categorized by driving conditions:
      Metric EPA Rating (MPG) Owner-Reported Average (MPG) Conditions
      City 32 28–31 Stop-and-go traffic, frequent idling, cold starts (below 40°F/4°C), and aggressive acceleration.
      Highway 40 35–39 Steady cruising at 60–70 mph (97–113 km/h), minimal braking, and well-maintained tires.
      Combined 35 30–34 Mixed urban/suburban driving with occasional highway use; moderate speed fluctuations.
      Cold Weather (Winter) N/A 25–29 (City/Combined) Sub-zero temperatures, frequent use of defrosters, and shorter trip durations.
      Aggressive Driving N/A 22–26 (City) Rapid acceleration, hard braking, and sustained high RPMs (above 3,000 RPM in city).
      Key Observations:
      Owner-reported fuel economy typically falls 2–4 MPG below EPA ratings in city driving due to real-world inefficiencies, while highway figures align more closely with expectations. Cold weather and aggressive driving degrade efficiency significantly, underscoring the importance of gentle acceleration and regular maintenance (e.g., tire pressure, air filter replacement) to preserve fuel savings.

      Driving Dynamics: Urban Commuting, Highway Cruising, and Spirited Handling

      The 2017 Scion tC’s driving experience is defined by its precise steering, lightweight chassis, and front-wheel-drive balance, though compromises exist in noise isolation and long-distance comfort. Below are its strengths and limitations across three primary scenarios:

      - Urban Commuting:
      The tC excels in tight spaces with a turning radius of 17.1 feet (5.2 meters), allowing it to navigate parking lots and narrow streets with ease. Its 10.6-inch diameter wheels and 195/55R17 tires provide responsive feedback, though pavement imperfections are amplified due to minimal sound deadening. Noise levels at highway speeds reach 68–70 dB, with road and wind noise becoming noticeable above 50 mph (80 km/h). The 6-speed manual transmission (if equipped) offers engaging shifts, while the CVT delivers smooth, effortless acceleration with minimal driver input.

      - Highway Cruising:
      On highways, the tC’s aerodynamic coefficient (Cd) of 0.32 contributes to stability, though its 102.4-inch (260 cm) wheelbase limits rear-seat legroom (36.6 inches) and cargo space (12.1 cubic feet). Wind noise at 70 mph (113 km/h) is 72–74 dB, requiring occasional use of the dual-zone automatic climate control to mitigate discomfort. The 1.8L 4-cylinder engine (132 hp) struggles to maintain momentum during aggressive lane changes but suffices for steady cruising.

      - Spirited Driving:
      The tC’s understeer tendency and soft suspension tuning prioritize comfort over sportiness, though the 15.5-inch front and 14.8-inch rear track provide adequate grip. Lateral acceleration is limited to 0.75–0.80 g before understeer dominates, making it unsuitable for track use. The power steering system (variable-assist rack-and-pinion) offers 2.1 turns lock-to-lock, enabling quick maneuvers but with minimal feedback at low speeds.

      Noise, Visibility, and Comfort:

    • Noise: Cabin insulation is adequate for city driving but thin for highway use, with road and tire noise dominating. The single-pane side windows and lack of sound-deadening materials exacerbate this issue.
    • Visibility: The sloped roofline and compact windshield reduce rear visibility, though the power-adjustable side mirrors and tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel compensate. The 360-degree camera (available on higher trims) mitigates blind spots.
    • Comfort: Front seats are supportive for short commutes but lack lateral bolstering for long trips. The 60/40 split-folding rear seat improves cargo flexibility, though the shallow trunk (12.1 cu. ft.) restricts bulky items.

      • Owner Feedback: Praises and Complaints

      Owner experiences with the 2017 Scion tC reveal a polarizing yet practical vehicle, with strengths in fuel efficiency and maneuverability offset by reliability concerns and resale depreciation. Below are categorized insights from forums, reviews, and long-term ownership data:
      Praises:
      • Fuel Economy: Consistently praised for exceeding EPA estimates in mixed driving, with owners reporting 32–36 MPG combined under normal conditions. The CVT’s efficiency and lightweight construction are frequently cited as key advantages.
      • Parking and Maneuverability: The compact dimensions (164.6 inches long, 67.3 inches wide, 57.1 inches tall) and short wheelbase make it ideal for urban environments, with owners highlighting its ease of parallel parking and tight turning radius.
      • Affordability: Low purchase price ($16,000–$20,000 new in 2017) and insurance costs (below average for its class) appeal to budget-conscious buyers. Maintenance costs are below average for compact cars, with many owners reporting $300–$500 annually for routine upkeep.
      • Tech Features (Higher Trims): The Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and available backup camera are noted as well-integrated for a vehicle in this price range. The 7-inch touchscreen (on Premium trims) receives mixed reviews for responsiveness but is considered functional for basic navigation.
      Complaints:
      • Reliability Concerns: Reports of transmission issues (CVT slippage, delayed engagement) and engine stalling (particularly in cold weather) are common, with some owners citing recalls for oil pump failures (2017–2018 models). Long-term reliability ratings from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power rank the tC below average for its class.
      • Resale Value: The tC depreciates faster than competitors (e.g., Honda Civic, Toyota Yaris) due to brand perception and limited aftermarket support. A 2017 tC loses ~50% of its value in 3 years, compared to ~40% for the Civic

        Reliability & Maintenance Costs of the 2017 Scion tC

        The 2017 Scion tC, based on Toyota’s GR platform, inherits the reliability DNA of its parent models—the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ—while offering a unique blend of performance and affordability. Owners prioritize long-term dependability, particularly in the engine, transmission, and electrical systems, alongside predictable maintenance expenses. This section provides a detailed breakdown of maintenance costs, reliability ratings, comparative analysis with competitors, and a structured maintenance schedule to ensure optimal upkeep.

        Maintenance Cost Breakdown for the 2017 Scion tC

        The 2017 Scion tC shares components with the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ, resulting in maintenance costs aligned with Toyota’s reputation for cost-effective ownership. Below is a table summarizing average costs for common services, based on U.S. market data (2023) from repair databases like RepairPal, Fixr, and YourMechanic, adjusted for inflation where applicable. Costs may vary by region, labor rates, and parts quality.
        Service Average Cost (USD) Interval (Miles/Km) Notes
        Oil and Filter Change $50–$80 5,000 miles / 8,000 km Synthetic oil recommended for optimal performance. Toyota’s 0W-20 or 5W-30 is standard.
        Brake Pads (Front/Rear) $150–$300 30,000–50,000 miles / 48,000–80,000 km Front pads wear faster due to higher load. Ceramic pads last longer but cost more.
        Brake Rotors (Front/Rear) $200–$450 50,000–70,000 miles / 80,000–112,000 km Machining may extend rotor life; replacement recommended if warping or excessive wear occurs.
        Timing Belt and Water Pump $600–$900 100,000 miles / 160,000 km
        Critical service: Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. Includes auxiliary belt and tensioners.
        Spark Plugs $150–$250 60,000–100,000 miles / 96,000–160,000 km Iridium or platinum plugs improve longevity and performance.
        Air Filter $20–$50 15,000–30,000 miles / 24,000–48,000 km Cabin air filter replacement recommended every 15,000 miles / 24,000 km.
        Transmission Fluid $100–$200 60,000–100,000 miles / 96,000–160,000 km 6-speed manual transmission; fluid drain-and-fill recommended for longevity.
        Coolant Flush $100–$150 100,000 miles / 160,000 km Prevents corrosion and overheating; use Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (red).
        Key Observations:
      • The tC’s maintenance costs are below average for its class, benefiting from Toyota’s shared parts ecosystem and robust engineering.
      • DIY-friendly tasks (e.g., oil changes, air filters) reduce expenses significantly.
      • Timing belt replacement is the most costly routine service but aligns with industry standards for the 2.0L 4-cylinder engine.

        • Reliability Ratings and Long-Term Durability

        The 2017 Scion tC earned mixed but generally positive reliability ratings, reflecting its Toyota-derived underpinnings while highlighting areas for improvement. Below are key findings from reputable sources:

        - Consumer Reports (2017–2019 Models):

      • Predicted Reliability: 4/5 (Above Average).
      • Engine: Rated highly for durability, with the 2.0L 4-cylinder (2AZ-FXE) engine sharing components with the Toyota 86 and Corolla. No major recalls for engine failures.
      • Transmission: The 6-speed manual transmission is praised for smoothness and longevity, though some owners report harsh first-gear engagement over time.
      • Electrical Systems: Minor issues with infotainment glitches (e.g., Bluetooth connectivity, navigation lag) and sensor malfunctions (e.g., tire pressure monitoring system) were noted but not widespread.

        • - J.D. Power Dependability Study (2018):

      • Long-Term Reliability Score: 81/100 (Great).
      • Strengths: Strong engine and drivetrain reliability, with fewer reported failures compared to competitors.
      • Weaknesses: Electrical gremlins (e.g., power window motor failures, dashboard warning lights) and interior build quality (e.g., rattles, cheap plastics) were cited as areas for improvement.

        • - RepairPal Reliability Rating: 4.0/5.0 (Above Average).

      • Common Issues:
      • Excessive oil consumption (0.1–0.2 quarts per 1,000 miles) in early models, addressed in later updates.
      • Windshield wiper motor failures (reported at ~50,000 miles).
      • Rust in high-snow regions (e.g., wheel wells, undercarriage), mitigated with undercoating.

        • Long-Term Durability Highlights:

      • Engine: Capable of 200,000+ miles with proper maintenance, though oil consumption may require monitoring.
      • Transmission: Manual transmissions are bulletproof if serviced regularly; automatic versions (in the Toyota 86) are less common but equally durable.
      • Electrical Systems: Minor issues are repairable and not catastrophic, but proactive diagnostics (e.g., scanning for error codes) are recommended.

        • Comparison of Maintenance Costs: Scion tC vs. Competitors

        The 2017 Scion tC competes with the Toyota 86, Subaru BRZ, and Mazda MX-5 Miata in terms of reliability and maintenance expenses. Below is a comparative analysis focusing on total cost of ownership (TCO) over 5 years/60,000 miles, based on industry averages:

        - Toyota 86 (2017):

      • Pros:
      • Identical engine/transmission to the tC, ensuring shared parts and labor rates.
      • Slightly better resale value due to Toyota’s brand premium.
      • Cons:
      • Higher trim-level pricing (e.g., GR Sport trims add $1,000+).
      • No significant cost differences in maintenance compared to the tC

        The Scion tC 2017 exemplifies how thoughtful engineering can transform a platform into a versatile daily driver without compromising on excitement. Its performance metrics, though modest by supercar standards, deliver tangible rewards in the hands of an engaged driver, while its interior balances functionality with a sporty aesthetic. The model’s reliability and cost-efficiency further solidify its appeal, particularly when contrasted with more expensive competitors. Ultimately, the 2017 tC serves as a reminder that driving enjoyment need not be exclusive to high-performance machines—it thrives in the details, from its precise steering feel to its adaptable transmission. For buyers prioritizing a dynamic yet practical coupe, the tC remains a standout option, offering a harmonious marriage of Toyota’s heritage and modern driving expectations.

        • FAQ

        Where can I find a used or new 2017 Scion tC for sale?

        The 2017 Scion tC is no longer sold new, so you’ll find used models on dealership sites like Toyota Certified Pre-Owned listings, CarGurus, Autotrader, or Facebook Marketplace. Prices typically range from $12,000–$18,000 depending on mileage and condition. Always check reliability records (e.g., Toyota’s maintenance history) before buying.

        What was the starting MSRP for a 2017 Scion tC?

        The 2017 Scion tC started at $19,750 (MSRP) for the base Premium trim. The Premium Plus trim (with better audio, alloy wheels, and heated seats) cost $21,750. Used prices today vary widely based on mileage and modifications.

        How many horsepower does the 2017 Scion tC have?

        The 2017 Scion tC is powered by a 2.0L inline-4 engine producing 121 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and 139 lb-ft of torque at 4,100 RPM. It’s paired with a 6-speed manual or CVT automatic transmission. Performance is modest, with 0–60 mph in about 8.5 seconds.

        What engine does the 2017 Scion tC use?

        The 2017 Scion tC uses Toyota’s 2.0L 3ZR-FE inline-4 engine, a naturally aspirated gasoline motor shared with other Toyota models (e.g., 2017–2019 Toyota 86/Subaru BRZ). It lacks turbocharging and is known for reliability but limited power. Fuel economy averages 26–30 MPG combined.

        Is the 2017 Scion tC made by Toyota?

        Yes, the 2017 Scion tC is a Toyota-branded model, though sold under the Scion sub-brand (which Toyota discontinued in 2016). It’s based on Toyota’s GA-C platform and shares mechanicals with the Toyota 86/Subaru BRZ (e.g., same engine and drivetrain). Scion was Toyota’s youth-focused brand targeting younger buyers.

        What are the key specifications of the 2017 Scion tC?

        The 2017 Scion tC has a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine (121 hp), 6-speed manual or CVT, front-wheel drive, and 18-inch alloy wheels (Premium Plus). Dimensions: 166.2 inches long, 68.5 inches wide, 53.5 inches tall, with a 12.1-inch diameter turning circle. Cargo space is 12.3 cubic feet (rear seats up). Standard features include Bluetooth, a 7-inch touchscreen, and Toyota Safety Sense-P (on later models).