hmmm...while the base model is rather "archaic" in terms of features, i don't think it's as big of a deal as a few of you make it out to be...it is unlikely most people will buy the $14k model anyway, so all it does is allow Toyota to have that low advertised price (like other brands often do)...sure, perhaps other cars might not start quite as low, as they will likely have more content, but unfortunately, that's how marketing works...get them in the door with the low price, and move them up based on needs.
if you need a reliable, low cost car for the student or a second car for basic commuting, why not?...sure, there are other options out there, but it can't be all that bad, when compared like for like...the top trim SE model is $19k, and while there are likely other things i would personally choose over it, it is still likely attractive to some...let's keep in mind, there are plenty of people out there who will buy a brand simply on marketing/word of mouth or "i've always bought that brand" and they don't shop around...while the base model is pretty "base", most base models are anyway.