This year's Solara is bigger and better looking than before.
In what amounts to a redesign, the 2004 Toyota Camry Solara
gains two inches in wheelbase and height, and one in overall
length, over last year's model. This gives the two-door
coupe version of the Camry a bit more interior room.
Later in the 2004 calendar year, the Toyota Camry Solara
coupe will be joined by a convertible version. For now,
the Solara's update rests on the latest Camry platform.
It is solid, tight and conducive to a comfortable ride.
In addition to an increase in size, the 2004 Toyota Cmary
Solara also gets a styling upgrade. Sleeker and more eye-catching
than ever, it is sure to make the Japanese manufacturer
proud.
Available Models
The 2004 Toyota Camry Solara is offered in three trims:
SE, SE Sport and SLE. Each of the three is available with
two engines. So, in effect, there are six 2004 Solara models.
Interior Features
The Toyota Camry Solara is a stylish two-door coupe that
has enough seating for five, though four adults would be
better served. The total cargo volume is now 13.8 cubic
feet.
Top-line SLE models have a nice blend of standard features
that really create a relaxing interior environment. Automatic
climate control, heated power mirrors with driver-side automatic
day/night, a power sunroof and a JBL AM/FM/cassette player
with an in-dash 6-disc CD changer are all standard.
When you purchase the SLE model with a V6 engine, leather
upholstery and heated front seats are added. Satellite radio
and a navigation system are optional.
Exterior Features
SE Sport models are so named because of what they can do,
and how they look. On the outside, they have unique lower-body
styling and 17-inch wheels. SLE models also have 17-inch
wheels, while base SE models have 16-inch wheels.
Performance
As mentioned, each of the three trims can be had with either
engine. The base configuration is comprised of a 2.4-liter
inline 4-cylinder engine that produces up to 157 horsepower
at 5600 rpm and 162 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm.
Next up on the power scale is a tough 3.3-liter V6 engine.
It cranks out 225 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 240 lb-ft of
torque at 3600 rpm.
There are a total of three transmission types offered this
year: 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic and 5-speed automatic
transmissions. SE Sport models feature performance-tuned
suspension for better handling and control.
Safety and Security
Front side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and a tire-pressure
monitor are standard. Curtain side airbags and an antiskid
system are optional.
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