The Toyota Echo is a subcompact car manufactured and marketed by Toyota from 1999 to 2005. The "Yaris" and "Echo" names were also given to the export version of the related Japanese market Vitz hatchback, from which the Platz derives. In Japan, it was available at the Toyopet Store and the Netz Toyota Store dealerships.
History of the Toyota Echo
The Toyota Echo was part of Toyota's Project Genesis, aimed at attracting younger buyers to the brand in the United States. It sold almost 50,000 units in its first year but just half that many in 2003, and the project failed. In Canada, the Echo was more successful, and Toyota sold three- and five-door hatchback versions of the Vitz badged as the Echo starting with the 2004 model year. The Echo coupe was dropped after 2003, and the sedan and coupe were sold in the United States until the 2005 model year, with hatchback variants never sold there. The Echo was a predecessor to the current North American Yaris, featuring the same controversial center placement of the speedometer and gauges. Most models came with manual windows and locks, air conditioning, and a six-speaker audio system with a CD and/or cassette player, and power options were rare.
Price
In 2002, the Toyota Echo was available with a starting manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $9,995 ($16,489 in 2023) for the base model, rising to its top-spec variant at around $10,585 ($17,463) in 2023). The price range for a used Toyota Echo varies based on the trim level you choose. Starting at $2,500 and going to $9,995 for the latest year the model was manufactured.
Specs and Performance of the Toyota Echo
Engines:
- 1.5 L 1NZ-FE I4
The Toyota Echo's 1.5L engine delivers 109 hp (81 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 104 lb-ft (142 Nm) of torque at 6,000 rpm. Toyota marketed the Echo as a front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicle, and it was available with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Dimension-wise, the Toyota Echo measures 4,180 mm (164.6 in) long, 1,660 mm (65.4 in) wide, and 1,500 mm (59.1 in) high. Its wheelbase measures 2,370 mm (93.3 in) and has a curb weight of 1,874–2,227 lb lbs (850–1,010 kg).
Release Date
The Toyota Echo was in production by Toyota from 1999 to 2005 and was primarily marketed in the United States where it sold almost 50,000 units in its first year, but only half that many in 2003.