[puddleglum]

Good luck with it, I think these are wonderful commuter cars. I haven't had my Echo very long either but the mileage is impressive and I'm still getting used to it so I'm sure I can still do better. Mine is base too and it's had a tough life. It has power steering but no a/c. With the right mods and perfecting your driving techniques, I think you might reach your goal even with your present engine.