Though sales were less than spectacular, Toyota was not ready to give up on its subcompact car, and in 2003, the ECHO received a makeover. It received a new grille, bumpers, front and rear fascias, bumpers, trunk lid, front quarter panels, headlights and taillights. It also grew a little longer, got the option of bigger tires, and came available with new interior fabrics and option packages. With its new look, the 2003 was a little less weird-looking, but its height still made it stand apart from other sub-compacts.

The 2003 Toyota ECHO came in two body styles, a two door and a four door. Both shared a 108-horsepower 1.5-liter engine. It came standard with a five-speed manual transmission, and a four-speed automatic was an available option. Fuel economy was excellent, about 31/38 mpg.

Drivers like the 2003 Toyota ECHO despite its spartan interior and small engine due to its excellent gas mileage, reliability, and low cost. Those who do not like the 2003 ECHO complain that the car is too small, doesn’t have enough power, and gets blow around in the wind at high speeds. Despite its improved styling, the 2003 ECHO is still lambasted as looking like a “ball on wheels.”