2004 Toyota Echo Hatchback - A Smart Move Down
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| The 2004 Echo Hatchback was introduced at the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto. (Photo: Toyota Canada) |
The Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto is growing in size and stature, with more new model and concept introductions each year. Still, its unusual to see a car a vehicle unveiled that doesn't at least coincide with a duplicate release in the Chicago Auto Show that now runs simultaneously. The new Toyota Echo Hatchback is just that vehicle.
But more importantly the impish little runabout was not only featured here first, our American friends can eat their collective heart out 'cause it's only coming to Canada. Based on the Yaris, one of Toyota's best-selling vehicles in Europe and Japan, the 4-occupant subcompact will go on sale this summer.
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| The Echo hatch is based on the Japanese and European Yaris. This photo shows what we can expect the 3-door version to look like. (Photo: Toyota) |
"Canadians have been clamoring for a Toyota hatchback and I'm delighted that we've found a way to bring it to them in such great style," stated TCI President, Ken Tomikawa while addressing the Toronto crowd. "The fact that the Yaris is built on the Echo platform allowed us to draw on all the best features of both cars. The new Echo Hatchback has a European design flair that's like nothing else on Canadian roads, combined with the Toyota quality, safety and value that have made Echo sedans so popular with Canadians. It's a fantastic package."