2009 Toyota Camry Solara Review

Specifications

The two door Toyota Camry Solara is the rebirth of the Camry but in a two door, sportier handling, optional convertible that every automotive manufacturer wishes they had in their line-up. Maybe it is not the sportiest coupe on the market, nor is it the fastest but its class-leading sales and typical Toyota reliability make it a favorite among consumers.

Built on the previous generation of Camry sedan (2002 to 2006), the Solara comes in two body styles - the Coupe and the Convertible with both styles being available in SE, SLE and Sport models.

The coupe comes with a choice of two engines - a 2.4-liter DOHC 16-valve VVT-i 4-cylinder that produces 155 hp at 6000 rpm and 158 lb.-ft. at 4000 rpm or the3.3-liter DOHC 24-valve VVT-i V6 that muscles out 210 hp at 5600 rpm and 220 lb.-ft. at 3600 rpm.

The 2.4L engine gets 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway and comes with the choice of a 5-speed manual over transmission or a 5-speed electronically controlled automatic overdrive transmission (ECT-i). The 3.3L is thirstier at 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway and comes standard in the convertible coupled with the 5-speed automatic.

The SE and SLE Solara models have front and rear MacPherson strut suspension with gas-filled shock absorbers and stabilizer bar while the Sport model has sport tuned shock absorbers, springs and front and rear stabilizer bars. The variable-assist power rack-and-pinion steering has a far superior feel to it then the standard Camry and the handling belies the price tag on this fun sedan.

The base SE is a well-equipped entry-level vehicle with 16-in. aluminum alloy wheels with P215/60R16 tires, color keyed dual outside mirrors, three spoke tilt and telescoping steering wheel with audio keys and 8 way manually adjustable fabric seats. The 60/40 split fold-down rear bench seat is standard in all the coupe models meaning a more versatile cargo area. The AM/FM 6 disc in-dash CD changer with satellite radio capability, MP3/WMA playback capacity with auxiliary audio jack and cruise control are impressive for a base model.

The SLE has the upgraded 17-in. aluminum alloy wheels with P215/55R17 tires, leather wrapped steering wheel and shifter knob with wood grain styling in the dash. The leather seats have seat-back pockets and are 8 way power adjusting with the option of headed. Homelink universal transceiver is standard and the upgraded JBL AM/FM 6-disc in-dash CD changer with satellite radio capability MP3/WMA playback capability, auxiliary audio jack and FM diversity reception with the option of upgrading to a full voice activated DVD navigation system as well as the JBL system.

The Sport also comes standard with color-keyed front and rear under body spoilers, rear sport spoiler, side rocker panel mouldings and a unique stainless steel exhaust tip and upgraded 17-in. aluminum alloy wheels with P215/55R17 tires. The upgraded Opitron sport instrument panel has unique gauges, aluminum covered sport pedals, black graphite-style interior and sport seats complete the package.

The convertible features leather throughout with wood trim and silver metallic-style in dash trim. The rear seat is comfortable for two adults and the power-retractable fabric convertible top with full headliner, large rear glass window with defogger and auto-down power rear windows is worry free.

The Camry Solara continues to be a leader in coupe and convertible sales. Faster, sportier with two-door style, this car is ideal for someone wanting family car reliability but in a package that does not scream boring!