Speaking of saving money, the car's base price starts at a modest $12,995, well within the range of most low income budgets - that is if it's paid for by monthly installments. The 5-door is a little pricier at $14,600, but includes additional standard features.
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| Starting at $12,995, the Echo Hatchback is well within the range of most low income budgets . (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press) |
A sporty RS package is available for an additional $1,700, featuring body-color side skirts, a rear body-color spoiler, alloy wheels, sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, plus the 'RS' logo fixed to the exterior as well as inscribed onto the door sills. It's a sporty looking tike.
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| Whether driven by a beginner, intermediate, or advanced driver, the Echo Hatch is a great ride, and created only for Canadians. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press) |
An air conditioning package can also be purchased for $1,200, and includes a rear bumper protector. Or alternatively you can order the Hatch with a $1,650 air conditioning package that adds keyless entry, or keyless entry and cruise control for $2,060. Those last two packages cost $1,735 and $2,170 on the RS model, and all include that rear bumper protector. The final option is a $1,000 automatic transmission that ends the tally at $19,410, plus appropriate taxes and Toyota's rather steep $960 transport and pre-delivery inspection (PDI) charge.
All in all, Toyota Canada's 2004 Echo Hatchback is a head turner. This car impresses many who look at it, even a UBC professor who gave me thumbs up for having a "cool car." What more can I ask for? It looks good, has decent power and can fit into a meager parking space. Whether driven by a beginner, intermediate, or advanced driver, the Echo Hatch is a great ride, and created only for Canadians. Eat your heart out U.S.A.
