Overview of the Toyota Echo
In 1999 the Echo replaced the uninspiring Starlet as the smallest Toyota you could buy. It was available in three- and five-door hatchback body style, or a sedan that featured a larger engine. Anti-lock brakes and a passenger airbag weren't even standard on earlier models, while power steering (2002) and air-conditioning (2003) weren't included until later. The Echo nameplate lasted just one generation, ending in 2005 when its successor adopted the car's global name: Yaris.
TOYOTA ECHO GENERATIONS
1999-2005
RUNNING COSTS
Fuel Consumption
1.3L 4-cylinder: 5.8 to 6.5 litres per 100km
1.5L 4-cylinder: 5.7 to 6.7 litres per 100km
= Highly economical.
= Good economy.
= Average fuel use.
= Heavy consumption.
Servicing
The Toyota Echo isn't included in Toyota's current service program. Contact your nearest Toyota dealer. Toyota Echo parts and accessoriescan be found on Gumtree.
SIMILAR MODELS TO TOYOTA ECHO
Holden Barina
Mazda 2
Renault Clio
Suzuki Swift
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR: TOYOTA ECHO (1999 TO 2005)
Not much to report here, thanks to the Echo being a typical Toyota and, therefore, pretty darn reliable.
But you do need to check a few things, starting with the service record. These engines were physically small and held only a small amount of oil. And since they worked pretty hard, it's important that oil and filter changes were not skipped.
During the test drive, check that the heater control isn't too stiff to move and that the air-conditioning blows icy-cold air at you.
Unfortunately, the Echo is one of the many cars that was caught up in the Takata air-bag fiasco, so a check with a Toyota dealer will give you the latest updates on this ongoing saga and information on what your next move should be.
It's a moving target, unfortunately, as more and more cars are added to the recall list.
