All-New Toyota Camry Solara Convertible Costs Less than Old Model

Toyota Upgrades Styling, Features and Power to New Solara Convertible

Next summer could be a lot more fun in a new convertible, at least thats what Toyota hopes American consumers will be contemplating this spring.

Its new 2004 Camry Solara SLE V6 Convertible will become available across the nation in April, with a price tag lower than the outgoing model despite its more powerful engine, additional standard features and sportier new design.

At $25,950 the new Solara drop-top shaves $2,095, or 7.5 percent, from last years Solara convertible window sticker.

Toyota adds a standard rear spoiler and standard 17-inch alloy wheels to all Solara Convertibles for sporty performance and styling. Also, fog lamps are standard bringing light to the cars wider, more aggressive design.

The upgraded 3.3-L V6 and new 5-speed Sequential Multi-Mode automatic transmission is a sporty package, delivering 225 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 240 lb-ft of maximum torque at 3,600 rpm to the front wheels.

The 24-valve, DOHC engine features Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), two-stage Acoustic Control Induction, and Electronic Throttle Control with intelligence (ETCS-i), delivering snappy power delivery while improving fuel-efficiency and emissions. Along with the 5-speed automatic transmission with manual mode, new car is certified as an Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV).

Handling should be impressive due to standard low-profile P215/55R17 all-season radials, while a full-size alloy spare is now standard. Toyota has added a new tire pressure warning system as well.

The list of luxury and convenience features is long, and includes steering wheel audio controls, telescopic steering wheel, electrochromic drivers side mirror, filtered air conditioning, and a cargo net for the trunk. The new Solara convertible sports a new multi-information display as well, that instantly provides information on topics such as exterior air temperature, fuel consumption, or driving distance estimates.

Safety features includes an advanced driver airbag that deploys only after sensors in the seat relay information regarding seat position and impact severity. The front passenger gets a standard airbag.

Other standard safety items include ABS brakes with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), while stability is enhanced by Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC).

Audiophiles will appreciate the premium 6-speaker JBL stereo system featuring an in-dash 6-CD changer, steering wheel audio controls and a rear subwoofer. Also, the Solara Convertible boasts automatic climate control, leather seats and trim, heated front seats, power windows and door locks, heated side mirrors, cruise control, keyless entry with lockout protection and more.

Its long list of features make it read more like a Lexus than Toyota, a theme that carries over to the cars interior quality, luxurious ride and performance, but thats part of the Japanese brands strategy to secure continued growth in a highly competitive new car market.