New features added to Echo’s accessory list

Toyota has launched a reverse parking sensor and a styling enhancement kit for its recently released Echo mini-car.

It is the first time Toyota has offered a parking sensor kit, which helps prevent parking damage when reversing in tight spaces, as an accessory for any model.

The kit consists of two radar sensors, positioned in the rear bumper near the outer corners plus a wiring loom, computer module and cabin-audible warning beeper.

A beeping signal inside the cabin indicates how close the rear of the vehicle is to objects, the frequency of the signal increasing as the vehicle nears the object.

Reverse parking sensors have previously been offered only on high price luxury models, yet the cost of the kit is, in many cases, less than the cost of parking-related rear-end repairs.

Also released is a styling enhancement kit and three alloy wheel designs for Echo.

Available for both the 3 and 5 door models,the styling kit includes front and side skirts and rear roof spoiler, and is constructed from tough, durable automotive grade plastic in contrast to many fibreglass aftermarket parts.

It is manufactured using injection moulding techniques which provide consistency of fit and appearance.

The launch of the styling accessories for new Echo follows the success of the Corolla TTE Rallye and Camry GTP enhancement packs, according to Toyota Australia’s Rory Macdougall.

"The Echo’s styling enhancement kit reflects the ever increasing demand for individuality of vehicles," he said.

"However, the design of the Echo enhancement is slightly more subtle than the aggressive motorsport-inspired Corolla Liftback and Camry kits, in keeping with its distinctive youthful styling.

"The Echo enhancement was developed by Toyota to integrate with the new vehicle’s distinctive rounded exterior styling and gives the car a distinctly sporty edge."

Three bright silver alloy wheel designs are to be offered for Echo - 14" Quad (available soon),14" Entice, and 15" Corsica. Both the Quad and Entice wheels feature organic curves which complement the Echo styling, while the Corsica offers a sportier design.

Both the four "dual-spoke" patterned Quad and the five "dual-spoke" rounded pattern Entice wheel fit the Echo’s original 14" tyre size.

The 15" Corsica motorsport-style six "dual-spoke" wheel requires the replacementof Echo’s original tyres, allowing fitment of low profle, higher performance tyres.

Other Toyota Genuine Accessories for Echo include a towbar with quick-detach

tongue to prevent painful shin injuries and maintain Echo’s smooth styling, demountable roof racks, weathershields and a full range of protective products.

The new Echo accessories are covered by Toyota’s three year/100,000 kilometres accessory warranty when fitted at the time of purchase of a new vehicle.