BOTH the new 1.3 and 1.5 (sedan) engines feature compact and light weight all-alloy construction for the cylinder head and engine block. Echo was the first non-Lexus Toyota with variable valve timing, a system that aims to provide strong performance, particularly low-down torque, without sacrificing fuel economy and low emissions. The 16-valve, twin camshaft 1299 cc engine in the hatch models produces 63kW at 6000rpm and 122Nm of torque at 4400rpm. That converts to (claimed) 0-100km/h performance figures of 12.1 seconds and a 0-400m time of 18.1sec, though independent tests have put it about one second slower. Variable valve timing system works on inlet valves and assists engine efficiency at high and low rpm. The inlet timing can be varied over a range of 60 degrees relative to crankshaft angle, to provide optimum valve timing over a range of driving conditions. Fuel efficiency is targeted in the use of lightweight valvetrain components, low friction pistons and piston rings, and low-load valve springs.