CARGO capacity and interior room defy belief upon first glance, but a few clever features have made the Echo a very versatile car. The rear bench seat is split 60/40 and can slide 150mm fore and aft - as well as tumble forward - to maximise cargo or rear seat space. When the rear seat is folded and tumbled, the cargo bay is completely flat-floored and can swallow up to 305 litres.

However, the rear seat tumble requires the front seats to be well forward, which will upset tall people. Even with the rear seat slid back, the upright tailgate allows surprising room for luggage - up to 205 litres. The large rear opening also makes good use of available space. When in its rearmost position, the rear bench provides good legroom for adults, assisted by handy foot room underneath the front buckets.