Overview & Reviews

For 2003, the Echo receives a new look with a redesigned front and rear fascia. The front bumper and fenders feature sharper and more prominent lines, a new chrome-slat grille and new headlamps with a distinctive bulb layout. Optional round foglamps accent the new front-end design. In the rear, a new trunk lid with chrome plate garnish, a new bumper and redesigned combination clear-lens taillights provide a more upscale look.

A new Appearance Package adds aerodynamic body enhancements, including overfenders that blend into the front and rear underbody. A rear trunk spoiler incorporates the LED high-mounted stop lamp.

The standard 14-inch wheels get a new wheel cover design, and, for the first time, the Echo can be had with optional 15-inch wheels. The new styling is topped off with five new colors.

• Good gas mileage, speedy acceleration, roomy and functional interior, Toyota reliability.

• Cartoonish styling, annoying gauge placement, tilt-a-whirl handling, deceptively low base pricing.

User Reviews:

Showing 71 through 73 of 73.00

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  Toyota Echo 2003 met all my expectations - 2003 Toyota Echo
  By Bob Hoy - March 25 - 10:00 am

  After a year of owning my 2004 Toyota Echo, the car has met or exceeded all of my expectations. It is light in crosswinds and has poor acceleration getting onto the Interstate highway. But given that, I smile all the way home as I pass the gas stations filled with gas guzzling SUVs and minivans (like I used to drive). I have been on several cross country trips and have been pleasantly surprised. No aching back, cramped leg muscles or headaches. And the sound system beats anything else I own. The car drives straight and the tire wear so far is very even. I keep finding nice surprises, like the hidden tray under the passenger seat, just right for holding CDs.

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  LuvIt - 2003 Toyota Echo
  By tiki - March 11 - 7:00 am

  I was skeptical of how small this car looked until I got inside and test drove it. It is much more spacious than it looks. Gas mileage is great! I fill up about once a week for about $20. I got used to the odometer in the center dash. Its easier to keep your eye on it and on the road at the same time. I hope to keep this car for a long time. It even drives well in the snow. Its a great first new car!

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  Best small commuter car ! - 2003 Toyota Echo
  By maltais - February 22 - 10:00 am

  I still don"t understand why Edmunds rate it so low. It is the best car for city driving. Good accelaration. Super low gas consumption. Quiet ride. Well assembled.