Folding backseat in 2001 Echo?

[jamamp1]

I'm having trouble getting my rear seat folded down in my 2001 Toyota Echo. According to the user's manual, there are two latches located on the back of the seat accessible from the trunk of the car.

The problem is, there is a divider between the trunk and the backseat, protecting it from harm I suppose. I don't want to destroy this guard because I just want to try to fit a bike back there from time to time. Does anyone know what I'm talking about and might help me to remove it?

Thank you so much for your time,

Jason

[Yaris Hilton]

Are you sure you have the 60/40 folding back seat? It was optional. (Still is on the Yaris.)

[jamamp1]

This might sound silly but how could I find out? I bought the car used a few years back, and I just assumed I could because it mentions it in the user's manual.

[Yaris Hilton]

Look at the back of the seats. Mine are covered with trunk lining upholstery. The right one is the 60% wide, the left the 40% one. The division between is clearly visible. Each has a latch in the top to fold it down. That's why I asked; yours sounds like it doesn't have the folding seats.

[JNEG]

I have a 2000 coupe with the folding rear seats. Another option is to do what I do sometimes: (I find this easier than cramming the bike in the trunk)
Remove the front wheel (assuming you have quick releases) and slide it in over the back seat (covering back seat with a sheet or tarp), and stow removed wheel in the trunk. If you have a 4 door, this should be even easier. You could also get a trunk mount bike rack (Bike Nashbar, but you probably know this already).
Hope this helps...