“I really like this car,” uttered a friend, and passenger when going for a spin in the Toyota ECHO. She liked one thing after the other: first, all the headroom inside, second, the roomy trunk. Then it was the unusual, one-of-a-kind instrument panel, located in the center of the dash; and on and on and on. Refrains were similar when toting other passsengers.

Not having followed its introduction very closely, I was pleased to see the all-new 2000 ECHO sitting in my driveway for a test drive. Aimed at the “Echo” generation, this new little runner will appeal to everyone, not just those between the ages of 16 and

Quick Specs: Engine: Length: Wheelbase: Weight: Fuel Economy: 4 cylinder, 1.5-liter, 108 hp 163.3 in. 93.4 in. 2.030 lbs - sedan 2,020 lbs.- coupe 34/41 mpg.

30. Toyota expects to sell 60,000 ECHOs in the U.S. its first year, as it gradually becomes the replacement for the dated (and over-priced) Tercel. Having driven the Ford Focus first—ECHOs competition in this market—we felt sure it had the edge on coming up with the most innovative, and very, very reasonably priced car for the new year. Well, it now has some stiff competition in its rival ECHO.

Our test ECHO came equipped with a few extras, hiking the total vehicle price up to $14.200, including $455 destination charge. At first this seemed a little high—especially for the teen pocketbook—but then we studied the pricing structure, and pondered those extras, and it came within reasonable. Pricing structure on the compact ECHO starts at $10,295 for a 4-door sedan; $9,995 for the 2-door coupe. The options included on our test ECHO—which, by the way, came in the classy Alpine Silver Metallic—ABS ($590), rear lip spoiler ($100), all-weather package (heavy duty battery, heater and rear defogger, $275), upgrade package #1 (sports body kit with rocker panels and over fender moulding, power steering, , intermittent wipers, dual remote outer mirrors, manual, 60/40 split folding rear seat, digital clock, $1,020), and upgrade package #2 (A/C, Deluxe ETR/Cass/CD with 6 speakers, power door locks, $1,465). Option prices seemed high, and we concluded there were a few of these options the average buyer could do without.

The upgrade package #1, including the rocker panels and wheel-lip mouldings is one worth ordering. For one, it adds considerably to the styling of the ECHO, making it appear like more car. Secondly, it aids in protecting against foreign material tossed back at the body, as well as preventing against trapped water, which leads to rust. The most unusual feature on the ECHO is its center-mounted instrument panel, smack in the middle of the dash. When I first entered the car it was at night, so I assumed the instrument panel lighting was not on, only to discover, the panel was located in the center. After getting used to this configuration, it’s even preferrable. Not positioning the panel directly in front of the driver and behind the steering wheel, frees up this area for any possible distractions a driver might encounter. This way, you’re forced to keep your eye on the road. In tandem with this feature, Toyota has raised the front seats a tad so that the driver is positioned somewhat toward this center panel. Hard to describe perhaps, but just sitting in the vehicle will tell all.

Speaking of seats, the ECHO’s are very comfortable, and made with much more substance than most in the compact category. The center console houses a dual cupholder in front and one in back. No extra console in the middle. BUT, there is a dual glove box. What a great idea. One thing ECHO isn’t short on is innovation. Above the standard glove box (and this one holds more than a glove), is a second compartment with its own door, smaller than the one below. The standard box will hold the owner’s manual, and there are several instruction booklets. I thought to myself, Toyota even thought of all the necessary information for a first-time car buyer, and it’s all in these booklets.

On either side of the control center (radio, temperature controls, etc.) are cubby holes, as well as one under the radio controls. All kinds of fun places to store “stuff.” Dash controls are all reachable and easy to operate; the radio has good sound, and features the usual AM band and two FM bands.

As with other compacts, don’t expect the seat of luxury. Amenities are few, but then, that’s expected. There aren’t any power windows, mirrors or seats. As noted above, the options on our test car were ones most starter-car buyers could do without; save the anti-lock brakes. Outside mirrors are operated manually, so it’s difficult to adjust the passenger mirror. One has to reach over to do so; something many drivers have to get used to again. It seemed funny to have power locks, but when exiting the vehicle, you’ve got to lock it with the key in the door, so this feature is welcome. Air conditioning, of course, is optional and is available in a package, but alone is a whopping $925. Even at $13,000, though, you’ll have a well-appointed, nice looking and roomy compact sedan. Something rare today.

We enjoyed driving the ECHO and found that it was a “choice” among other test vehicles during that week. This is always a positive indicator of what’s a desirable, comfortable car to drive on a daily basis. By all means, regardless of budget, give the ECHO a test drive. We think you’ll agree.