It looks good too, inside and out. Regarding the former, the Yaris continues forward with the Echo's centrally-mounted
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| The Yaris continues forward with the Echo's centrally-mounted gauge cluster, situated up above the centre stack on top of the dash. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
gauge cluster, situated up above the centre stack on top of the dash, so for the uninitiated it takes some getting used to, but for those already familiar to the Echo it will be like coming home. That centre stack is completely revised though, and something totally different than anything I've ever seen in any other car. What makes it so unique? It's the layout of controls, set up vertically, one dial upon the other for a total of three heating and ventilation controls, and ending atop with a somewhat conventional audio head unit that includes an AM/FM/CD player, and above that a set of vents. The super-bright silver finish is a bit over the top, at least for my taste, but I'm sure it will be appealing to those who
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| The super-bright silver finish is a bit over the top, at least for my taste, but TRD offers accessories to remedy the issue if desired. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
like a more upscale environment. Personally, I like a little bit of metal trim mixed in with more traditional black or graphite, not the all-metal, all of the time look of the Yaris' centre stack. C'est la vie, you can't please 'em all.
Well, maybe you can... as Toyota's TRD division has some slick accessories available at the dealer level that can make a big difference in styling and performance. The centre stack can be modified with either faux carbon fibre or a black gloss surface, complemented with a similar treatment added to other areas around the cabin. TRD also has aluminum short-throw shifters, unique wheels and tire packages, exterior aero add-ons, and engine upgrades, all covered by Toyota's standard warranty.
