Overview & Reviews

Introduced as sportier siblings to the mainstay midsize Camry sedan, the Toyota Camry Solara coupe and convertible quietly enjoyed a reputation for being reliable, well built and pleasantly styled, if not excitingly so. For most family sedans, such qualities are certainly considered desirable, but when it comes to coupes and convertibles, we think that a little fun and pizzazz should figure in as well. The Camry Solara never offered much in terms of excitement, but that didn't prevent it from being a popular choice for a midsize two-door.

For both generations of the Solara, rear-seat room was generous and safety ratings and feature content were impressive. Smooth four-cylinder or V6 power resided under the hood, and overall the Toyota Camry Solara was reasonably priced and offered great value considering all that it delivered.

If you're looking for a sport-oriented coupe or convertible, the Toyota Camry Solara isn't going to be your best choice. And the most recent Camry Solara convertible's traditional fabric top can be seen as a bit dowdy given that many competing models from the same time period offer retractable hardtop designs. But if you treasure overall quality, value and comfort, there are few coupes or convertibles that put it all together as well as the Camry Solara.

Most Recent Toyota Camry Solara

The most recent Toyota Camry Solara was the second-generation model and was sold from 2004-'08. It was based on the 2002-'06 Camry sedan and was available as a midsize coupe or convertible in SE, SE Sport and SLE trim levels.

The standard engine on the Camry Solara coupe was a 2.4-liter four-cylinder rated at 157 horsepower and 158 pound-feet of torque, mated to either a five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic (four-speed prior to '06). Optional on coupes and standard on convertibles was a 3.3-liter V6 rated at 210 horses and 220 lb-ft of torque. Prior to 2007, horsepower ratings will appear to be greater; however, this was due to a change in the way horsepower is measured rather than an actual output change. No manual transmission was available with this smooth engine, but the automatic was a modern five-speed with a manual-shift gate for those who like to select their own gears. On the road, the Toyota Camry Solara's suspension tuning delivered a comfortable ride. The added stiffness of the SE Sport model gave it enough capability to provide some fun through corners while still maintaining the civilized ride quality of the other models.

The base SE was decently equipped with most modern convenience features, while the Sport version added a firmer suspension, 17-inch wheels, an exterior body kit, xenon HID headlights and unique interior trim. The top-drawer SLE provided a few extra luxury-oriented standard features. Major options included stability control and a navigation system (which was upgraded for '07).

The Solara's front seats offer plenty of room for even the tallest drivers, but the rear seats are still best reserved for short trips. While Solara coupes can seat three passengers snugly in back, the Camry Solara convertible can accommodate just two. The Solara convertible's standard power top could be raised and lowered in just 10 seconds, and it stowed neatly under a tonneau cover that matched the color of the interior.

Past Toyota Camry Solara Models

The Camry Solara originally debuted for 1999 and was produced through 2003. Mechanically, it was related to the 1997-2001 Camry sedan. Toyota hoped its new two-door would appeal to consumers who wanted the style of a sporty car but the room and comfort of a larger, more practical vehicle. In the first year, only the coupe was sold, but Toyota added the convertible version for model-year 2000.

For this Camry Solara's run, Toyota offered the familiar SE or SLE trim levels. Initially, Toyota offered either a 2.2-liter, 135-hp four-cylinder engine or a 3.0-liter, 192-hp V6. Either engine could be had with a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic. For 2002, Toyota introduced a new 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 157 hp. Revised front and rear styling was also introduced that year. For 2003 and beyond, Toyota discontinued the manual transmission option for the V6.

At the time, we commented favorably about the Toyota Camry Solara's roomy cabin and smooth engines. Downsides included a lack of driving or styling excitement and the absence of some higher-end features, such as stability control and a navigation system.

User Reviews:

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  Blue Streak - 2008 Toyota Camry Solara
  By musky - November 21 - 11:43 pm

  I purchased the 2008 Version 4 cylinder model I drove the 6 and the 4 and decided on the 4 because I didnt sense much of a difference. I seem to choose cars that end production the year I buy them. I had a great Celica. I am more than pleased with performance. Mileage stated on the sticker was 21 31 and so far after about 3000 miles I am getting 28 39 , so I am very pleased with that. Rides very smoothly. No problems at highway speeds. Rear seats fold down so along with the roomy trunk there is plenty of storage room.

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  The Wilder Side of Camry - 2004 Toyota Camry Solara
  By Joker0561 - November 10 - 10:00 am

  The relationship between the Camry and the Solara is a lot like the whole Clark Kent/Superman setup. For example, no one would suspect that the mild-mannered Camry sedan (a splendid example of automotive perfection in its own right) and the Solara, with its slick styling, beefy V6, and road-hugging 17 inchers, are one and the same. The truth is that this is about as close to a Lexus as you can get without actually getting one. Interior materials are of the highest quality, and for a Toyota, thats REALLY saying something.

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  One of the Very Best - 2004 Toyota Camry Solara
  By Mcus02 - November 10 - 10:00 am

  This is a true drivers car, the second you sit down, you feel right at home, everything is where it should be and the seats are comfortable. The car handles smoothly and there is a bit of understeer, which is a good thing in a front wheel drive car. A interesting character of the car is the size, it is considerd a midsize coupe, and feels just like one. I give the car almost a 10/10 in every catagory, please do yourself a favor and seriosly suggest getting one. P.S. Please E-Mail me if you have any questoins.

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  Just Rolled 200,000 on the Clock - 1999 Toyota Camry Solara
  By Road Coot - November 4 - 8:30 am

  Bought my Solara new in 1999 and have had nothing but satisfaction with the vehicle. Regardless I expect to go WAY past 250,000 miles with this car. Just follow the maintenance schedule and take care of it, and itll be the most reliable vehicle youve ever owned. Would I buy another? In a New York Minute. But this time, I will find a better dealer.

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  A great first car !!!!! - 2004 Toyota Camry Solara
  By komodox - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I originally wanted an Acura TSX. I test drove the Solara with the hope that I wouldn’t like it and be forced to get the Ac. Much to my surprise, I absolutely fell in love with it. A 2.4L-4cyl. manual with a kick. The interior is rather spacious, especially in the back, and the materials and layout are on point. I’ve put 1860 miles on it in only 2.5 weeks with never an uncomfortable moment. The sport edition’s aggressive stance looks like nothing else on the road. It fits my lifestyle…young, fun, and corporate. People can’t help but stop, stare, and compliment…and I just love driving it.

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  The Best Car for the Best Price - 2004 Toyota Camry Solara
  By Tiffani - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I traded in my Saturn for this brand new Solara. I never really was intrested in Toyota but in a new Honda Accord which was way over priced! Being 20 I wanted a sporty car that also looked more "grown up". Then I saw the new Solara and I fell in love. I test drove one and then ordered mine. I cannot find one flaw in the car. And the best part everyone thinks its the Lexus Coupe!

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  Great Buy - 2000 Toyota Camry Solara
  By Love My Car - October 28 - 10:00 am

  I purchased my Solara in April 2000. I was in love with it then, and still love it now. It’s a great car for the money. It’s sleek and sophisticated, yet it’s still a tried and true Toyota. From an indicator light that tells you when one of your tail lights is out to the digital climate control...this Toyota has got it. If you’re looking for more bells and whistles, buy a Lexus. But, if you’re looking for a reliable, stylish, slightly sporty, V6 with 200-hp, at a decent price...I say this is the car.

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  2006 solara convertible - 2006 Toyota Camry Solara
  By Kim Einhorn - October 24 - 5:03 am

  Just purchased this car. Previous car was also a solara convertible. Can not say enough good things about this vehicle.It is by far the best purchase for the amount of money you pay. It drives like a lexus, very quiet on the highway. Apleasure to drive on the highway as well as in the city. Great pickup.

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  Camry Solara - 2000 Toyota Camry Solara
  By Mecca159 - October 22 - 10:00 am

  I bought my Camry Solara after having a Camry for 8 years. I havent had any problems with my car. My Solara was vandalized after somebody couldnt get the doors forced opened so I added a shock senser to the factory alarm. Now if you hit my car the horn and lights flash. Other than that my car has been excellent.

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  Excellent family convertible!! - 2006 Toyota Camry Solara
  By Donna R - October 2 - 3:56 pm

  This car is so much fun!! It holds 4 adults comfortably, rides smooth, gas mileage 22.6. The heated leather allows the roof to be open in even cooler weather.