What year did the Toyota Echo come out?
The Toyota Echo first appeared in 1999 in Japan (where the car was marketed as the Vitz) and reached the United States for the 2000 model year.
Origins and global rollout
The Echo was Toyota's compact hatchback designed to prioritize affordability and practicality. In Japan, the model launched in 1999 under the Vitz name, with export markets adopting the Echo branding for broader recognition. In North America, the Echo arrived as a distinct model for the 2000 model year, effectively replacing the older Tercel in Toyota’s lineup. The car was commonly offered as a two- or four-door hatchback and shared its underlying design with the Platz/Vitz family, influencing subsequent Toyota subcompact offerings.
Design and market positioning
Recognized for its fuel efficiency, simple interior, and low maintenance requirements, the Echo emphasized value over performance. Its lightweight construction and compact size made it well-suited for urban driving, while engine options and trims varied somewhat by market and model year.
Lifecycle and legacy
In North America, production of the Echo ended in 2005 as Toyota shifted toward newer subcompact models. The Yaris emerged in the mid- to late-2000s as the Echo’s successor in many markets, bringing updated styling and modern safety features. The Echo's role in Toyota's lineup helped establish a template for compact, economical transportation that continued to influence the brand's approach to small cars.
What happened after the Echo
Today, the Echo is remembered as a practical, budget-friendly option from the early days of Toyota's modern subcompact lineup. Its legacy persists in the emphasis on efficiency and reliability that characterizes many Toyota small cars to this day.
Summary: The Toyota Echo first came out in 1999 in Japan (as the Vitz) and arrived in the United States for the 2000 model year. It remained in production in North America until 2005, after which the Yaris generally filled its role in Toyota’s subcompact lineup.
How much is a 2003 Toyota Echo worth?
The price for a used 2003 Toyota Echo varies, with a typical range of $1,490 to $5,000 depending on condition, mileage, and features. The average price is around $3,245. The original MSRP in 2003 was between $10,730 and $12,375, depending on the trim and body style.
| Category | Price Range | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Average Used Price | $3,245 | Based on current listings on Autotrader. |
| Typical Used Price Range | $1,490–$5,000 | Based on current listings on Autotrader. |
| Original MSRP | $10,730–$12,375 | Varies by trim and body style (e.g., 2-door coupe vs. 4-door sedan). |
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What car replaced the Toyota Echo?
The Toyota Yaris replaced the Toyota Echo in North America, with the Yaris arriving for the 2007 model year. In other markets, the Echo was the first generation of what was sold as the Yaris, so there wasn't a direct replacement but rather a name change for the same model line.
- In North America: The Yaris was a new model that took the Echo's place in the subcompact segment.
- Globally: The model sold in North America as the Echo was known as the Yaris in many other parts of the world.
- The Echo's legacy: The Echo was the first generation of this subcompact, and its discontinuation after 2005 led to the second generation, which was sold in North America as the Yaris.
When did they stop making the Toyota Echo?
The last Toyota Echo was made for the 2005 model year. Production was discontinued after this year, and it was replaced in the Toyota lineup by the Yaris, which was released as a 2007 model.
- Last model year: The final model year for the Toyota Echo was 2005.
- Discontinuation: The car was discontinued after the 2005 model year.
- Replacement: The Toyota Yaris was introduced to replace the Echo, with the 2007 Yaris model being the successor in North America.
What are common problems with Toyota Echos?
Top Toyota Echo Problems
- Check Engine Light Due to EVAP System.
- Cleaning May Correct Faulty Mass Air Flow Sensor.
- Crank sensor may fail, warranty may apply.
- Toyota issues recall on brake master cylinder.
- Toyota recall for brake booster issue.
- Timing chain/sprockets may need replacement due to wear and problems with VVTi.
