Even though the little Toyota is performance oriented, it's probably the most practical subcompact on the market. How tall are you? Six feet, six-foot two, six-foot eight? Whatever, you'll fit inside front or back. If you have a baby seat - that would be me by the way - you'll find installation the easiest of almost any car less a minivan. Drop the rear seatbacks forward and a cavernous cargo area opens up as well, again another surprise from the tiny Toyota.

Probably the most practical subcompact on the market, the Echo Hatch has ample room, no matter your height. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

What would I do to change it? Nothing really, but in RS trim I would love to see Toyota spice it up a little. Think about it. The Echo Hatch is the perfect tuner car. It's cheap at $12,995, a good place to start especially considering it includes standard ABS brakes. Drop in a 180-hp Celica GT-S 1.8-L 4-cylinder and 6-speed manual transmission and the one ton rocket would go from zippy to zany, a true sport compact that Toyota could easily build, beating Honda at its own game hands down. Will they do it? Probably not, but if they sees enough letters from interested buyers you might create the demand.

But even if Toyota keeps the Echo Hatch RS the same, it will continue as a superb value for a wonderfully fun driver.

Specifications (RS):

• Layout: front engine, FWD
• Engine: 108 hp, 105 lb-ft, 1.5-L, DOHC, 16-valve I-4
• Transmission: 5-spd man (opt 4-spd auto)
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/drum
• Curb Weight: 944 kg (2,081 lbs)
• Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 6.6 / 5.1 L/100km
• Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 km comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
• Direct Competitors: Chevrolet Aveo, Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio
• Web Site: www.toyota.ca