Pros :
- Looks like a Lexus.
- Larger interior compared to previous model.
- More power and torque from low-emission V6.
- World-beating build quality.
- Improved handling.
Cons :
- Styling looks a little bloated from some angles.
- You can get a tire-burning Infiniti G35 coupe for a little more.
- Only comes with an automatic.
- Not exactly as sporty as Toyota wold like you believe.
- Somewhat heavy.
Interior :
Press Coverage :
The 2004 Toyota Camry Solara will be equipped with either a V6 or four-cylinder engine. The Solara's all-new 3.3-liter V6 will generate 225 horsepower at 5,600 RPM, an increase of 27 horsepower, and 240 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,600 RPM, 28 more lb.-ft. of torque than the current model. With both engines, Solara will be EPA-certified as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV). Solaras equipped with the V6 will be mated to an all-new five-speed automatic sequential transmission.
The Camry Solara's increased power will be smoothly transferred to the wheels via a performance-tuned suspension. Virtually every mounting and pivot point between the suspension and the body has been repositioned and recalibrated. Specially-tuned struts improve Solara's ride quality, while unique springs and front and rear stabilizer bars reduce body roll and pitch, resulting in a stable yet invigorating steering feel and response. Stopping power and feel is enhanced with standard four-wheel disc brakes.
The exterior culminates with rounded corners at the rear that blend into an integrated rear bumper, highlighting the look and design of the rear deck. Bumper height was reduced on the new Solara to give it a sportier stance and body gaps were narrowed. The rear combination lamp begins at the end of the character line forming an emotional teardrop shape, while an optional rear spoiler further strengthens the Solara's sense of style.
Like its exterior, the Camry Solara interior evokes a sporty and stylish image highlighted by a restyled instrument panel and center-mounted multi-function display featuring the time, outside temperature gauge, fuel consumption, average speed and elapsed time. Solara targets class leading fit and finish quality by narrowing gaps between interior surfaces by 0.5 millimeters or less, the design of an invisible front-passenger airbag, and chrome accents.
The 2004 Solara offers an amazing 20 percent increase in interior storage space by providing for a new front console box, cupholders that double as additional storage, and a center console that offers dual storage units. Solara also offers built-in storage and cupholders in the rear quarter panel. The front console door, glove box and register knobs utilize silicone dampers for smooth operation.
New for Solara are Satellite XM radio, and navigation system options. The Solara receives the latest generation in Toyota's DVD-based navigation systems. It features more than five million verified data points and its route searching capabilities are more than twice as fast as competitive systems. The Solara's 6.7-inch screen is among the biggest on the market today.
A target of best-in-class safety features will be supported by Solara's use of standard front side-impact airbags, four-wheel ABS and independent rear seat headrests. Front and rear curtain side airbags also will be available.
The new Sports Package, available on SE models, will include a special five-piece body kit, a unique dark-charcoal interior with black graphite trim, sport-fabric seats, exclusive sport gauges and meter colors, sport tires wrapped around 17-inch wheels, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob and distinctive aluminum pedals. The Sports Package also will feature a performance-tuned suspension that includes stiffer front and rear springs, as well as sport-tuned front and rear shock absorbers.
The four-passenger Convertible provides ample headroom and legroom in the front and rear seats. Compared to the Coupe, the Convertible offers two inches more rear headroom with the top up. The electric convertible roof control system quickly opens or closes in just ten seconds by touching a button on the instrument panel. The soft-top stows behind the rear seat and sits low for a sleek, overall appearance. Solara Convertible is equipped with an all-window control system, allowing drivers to open and close all door- and quarter-windows by pressing one button on the instrument panel.
Toyota.com
When the Toyota Camry Solara idles, the driver feels almost no vibration through the steering wheel, seats or floorboard. The only hint the car is running comes as a faint resonance in the gas pedal. Pick up steam and that silky smooth quality remains. At freeway pace, there's little wind noise in the Solara's cabin on the windiest days.
Full steam in the Solara comes in short order. With healthy torque, the V6 delivers a steady flow of acceleration. The automatic takes full advantage of that power. Downshifts are as immediate as a jab at the gas pedal, and passing maneuvers are a breeze. Off the line, a Solara V6 automatic manages 0-60 mph acceleration runs in the low 7-second range, making it one of the quickest cars in its class.
When the road changes direction sharply and frequently, the Solara bears up well. The steering is less numb than that in the Camry sedan. It's more progressive in the effort required by the driver, a little bit sharper, and quick enough to keep up with rapid direction changes.
But the Solara is not a sports car. It's basic handling characteristic is understeer -- a pushing at the front of the car the helps keep drivers without racing experience from getting in over their heads. It has more body roll, or lean through the corners, than a sports car. But it is well controlled as the car's weight shifts from side. Solara is competent on all kinds of roads, and its supple ride keeps driver and passengers comfortable in all circumstances.
Does Solara have that intangible quality enthusiast drivers call personality? That's a hard thing to define. Certainly, it doesn't have the spirit of performance of favorites like BMW's 3 Series coupe. On the other hand, compared to some of the vanilla-flavored cars from staid Toyota, the Solara has personality. It doesn't beg to be driven like a race car, but it doesn't wilt under pressure, either.
Nctd.com
The Solara's progressive-rate rack-and-pinion power steering has a very light feel at low speeds, and a firmer, and fairly quick feel at highway speeds. It's certainly sportier than the Camry sedan.
The Solara's fully independent suspension (MacPherson struts in front and dual link/gas-filled MacPherson struts at the rear) is a bit stiffer than the Camry sedan, and although the stiffer shocks cause some "bobbing" on the highway, it's not firm enough to make the ride uncomfortable. Cornering ability is more competent than I expected in a fairly large sporty coupe - due in part to my test car's optional Bridgestone Turanza 215/55R-17 tires.
Canadiandriver.com
History:
1999-2003 Toyota Camry Solara SE V6
2,995 cc / 198 hp / 212 lb-ft / 3075-3362 lbs / 0-60 mph 7.9 sec.
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