For the 2004 model year[16], the second version of the Camry Solara was totally redesigned (design approval in 2001; JPO patent number 1218292) and released to the public in August 2003[1]. It had a curvier body and had the option to install XM radio and/or a navigation system. [7] The Gen 2 body is heavier than the Gen 1.5 body since it is built on the same basis as the 2002 Camry sedan[17]. The optional 3.3 L V6 engine had a revised rating of 225 net horsepower at 5,600 rpm (168 kW) and 240 lbft (325 Nm) of torque at 3,600 rpm, while the four-cylinder engine was carried over from the previous version. The V6 was only available with a five-speed U151E automatic transmission, whereas the four-cylinder engine could be mated to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. The VVT-i technology from Toyota was used in both engines.
For the second generation vehicle, the Solara was shifted to Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky. For the coupe, production commenced in July 2003, while for the convertible, it did so in February 2004. [14] Only the 3.3 liter V-6 and the 5-speed MMT automatic transmission were available for the convertible. [1] [18] Instead of being converted from the coupe like the first-generation vehicle, which was criticized for having a lackluster level of structural rigidity [19]Toyota asserted that the second-generation convertible was made with a more solid body construction expressly to reduce noise and vibration levels. [18] [19]
The four-speed automatic transmission on four-cylinder versions was replaced by the five-speed MMT automatic transmission in late 2005 for the model year 2006, and minor adjustments were made to the optional motorized driver’s seat.
[1]
[20]
A revamped 2007 Solara featuring new LED tail lights, a revised rear bumper, and a new front fascia was unveiled in June 2006.
[1] The interior has been updated with Optitron gauges, blue backlighting on the rest of the controls, a new steering wheel that resembles the recently updated Camry SE steering wheel, a revised shifter, MP3 and WMA CD playback functionality, Bluetooth connectivity, and voice-activated navigation on the SLE V6 models. The engines remained the same, but thanks to new SAE-Certified testing procedures, the 4-cylinder model was now rated at 155 horsepower (116 kW) and 158 lb-ft (214 Nm), while the V6 was now rated at 210 horsepower (157 kW) and 220 lb-ft (298 Nm). [Reference needed]
Due to the second-generation Solara’s inherited uninspiring handling from its parent Camry, sales of the vehicle fell short of expectations.
[21] Despite the structural overhaul, the convertible was nonetheless criticized for its severe body shake and soft handling that did not seem sporty.
[18] Sales decreased from about 50,000 units annually between model years 2005 and 2008 to barely over 20,000.
[10] Due to poor sales after the 2008 model year, the coupe was discontinued[8], but the convertible, which sold the majority of cars, was still made. [9]
Despite claims that the convertible may remain on the market through at least 2010, production was covertly halted in December 2008, with sales continuing to measure demand from inventory. Toyota announced that production would not continue since sales had fallen short of expectations in June 2009. [8] [10]
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The Toyota Solara is dependable.
This vehicle is unmatched in terms of value and dependability. The vehicle has AUX. The transmission is both manual and automatic. The LED taillights appear custom-made. This automobile is the ideal size for me because I am 5’9″. Very good traction is present. Perfect for northern winters. It has excellent clearance for a sports car. Speed bumps are no problem for her to navigate. Smoother than glass, the transmission. Additionally, the engine is superb. There is no better engine or transmission than this. In my opinion, the Solara is not only the best value of any car, but it is also the most dependable car ever made.
What year is the Toyota Solara at its best?
Despite the fact that huge, front-wheel drive convertibles have long been a mainstay of local vehicle lineups, imports have mainly kept to smaller, compact car based drop tops. The unapologetically large 20042007 Camry Solara has the same length and breadth as the Camry sedan and offers a delightful platform for top-down cruising in a cozy environment. The body shape that was redesigned for 2004 works well in convertible mode, with the vehicle lines maintaining their superb flow and grace.
The Camry Solara convertible is a large, heavy vehicle that requires a strong engine to keep it from feeling sluggish. Toyota recognizes this and only offers a 225 horsepower, 3.3 liter V6 engine as an option. The Solara can merge with ease even in congested traffic thanks to its 240 lb-ft of torque and 4-speed automatic transmission. In 2006, a 5-speed automatic transmission replaces the preceding transmission, enhancing driving comfort. When coping with the additional weight of the convertible’s frame, the car’s suspension is well-tuned, and the body holds together nicely while cornering. However, when pushed, the Solara will complain of understeer, making it better suited to leisurely driving than high-speed slaloms. The Solara convertible rewards careful drivers with outstanding comfort and little roughness.
All things considered, the Toyota Camry Solara from 2004 to 2007 is a great car. It’s also a car that’s sacrificed the drama and passion of an engaging driving experience to produce a dependable but somewhat uninteresting car that’s a lot more useful than some of the other old convertibles on the market. For drivers looking for a used car they never have to think about and one that always answers their call when it’s time to head out into the summer sunset, the Camry Solara convertible is ideal.
A Toyota Camry is a Toyota Solara, right?
The Camry Solara is a sportier, two-door variation of the Camry sedan that is offered in coupe and convertible body styles.
The ride is smooth and controlled, but it is notably tighter than the four-door.
Over the years, customers had the option between reliable four-cylinder engines and a powerful, smooth V6.
The Solara’s interior is tastefully furnished, serenely quiet, and its front seats are supportive and pleasant.
Although the top of our tested convertible had considerable body movement, it is sufficiently insulated.
The Toyota Solara is not a luxury vehicle.
The Toyota Solara is a dependable luxury car with superb styling, lots of interior room, and adequate trunk space. The temperature can be controlled precisely, and the air conditioning runs well.
What kind of motor does a Toyota Solara have?
Power and acceleration. The SE and Sport Coupe both feature a five-speed manual transmission and a standard 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine with 155 horsepower and 158 pound-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm (automatic optional).