hey everyone, my girlfriend is looking at getting an echo, so I am just asking about general comments on it
one of my main questions is does it have an interference engine?
if so does it use a timing belt or chain?
any real complaints? any real praises?
hope to hear from everyone soon

Yep, it's an interference engine. The model isn't old enough yet to really determine whether that will be a problem. Best thing is to change the timing belt (yep, it's a belt) on time. Usually ~100k miles. GF's Echo has 79k, so I haven't had to do it yet. Biggest problem weve had is the trunk release lever. Took to Toyota (bought new in 02) numerous times, they finally replaced the trunk latch but the release still only works 50% of the time. Adjusted, cleaned, greased... still doesn't work right. If that's as bad as it gets, we don't have much to complain about. Worst thing I've read about (NOT looking forward to doing this job!!) is the valve adjustment. Evidently uses shim-under-bucket or somesuch, requires cam removal and is very, very $$$$ (over $1000) if you have toyota do it. I'll wait til 100k miles to mess with that issue, and make a weekend of the timing belt & valves.

Oops, that should be "bought new in 2001" NOT 2002. Sorry.