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Toyota Upgrades Echo / Vitz / Yaris Family

After rolling out more than 200,000 units in Europe alone, Toyota is set to release a freshened Echo / Vitz / Yaris family by March of 2003.

Designed in Europe, the 2003 model Echo family features new headlamps that incorporate a teardrop shape ala the ASEAN Corolla Altis. In addition, the headlamps feature chrome platting inside to add boldness and a sense of quality. Both the bumper aperture and radiator now feature a new mesh style design that give the Echo a much younger crowd appeal. At the back, it now sports more design cues from the Yaris Cabrio, which was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 2000.

Revisions also abound the interior with colors and fabrics that go well with the revised steering wheel design, instrumentation panel and facia.

The facia, for example, has been improved in shape to minimize distracting glares from the windshield. Instrumentation have been improved to make them easier to identify and use. The center meter cluster now incorporates speedometer, a rev counter, fuel gauge, odometer and transmission indicator on models equipped with a new Multi-mode Manual Transmission. Colors have now taken a futuristic turn with bright metallic accents on selected areas providing a sense of quality. Heated front seats are available as an option as well.

In terms of safety, the Echo is now equipped with 3-point ELR safety belts for all three rear occupants. A reinforced safety structure along with standard dual SRS airbags provide immense safety in the event of an accident. In addition, side-impact airbags is available as an option. The T Sport meanwhile gets ABS, EBD as well as Vehicle Stability Control and Traction Control as standard.

A fly-by-wire throttle system is combined with a choice of a 1.0-liter (65 bhp), 1.3 (87 bhp) or 1.5 (105 bhp) engines all have dual overhead cams, 16-valves and Toyota's VVTi technology. All engines now comply with EURO IV emission regulations thanks to a revised exhaust manifold, catalytic converter and a reprogrammed ECU.

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