2003 Toyota Solara reviews and buying
guide.
2003
Toyota Solara resources:
2003 Toyota Solara
The 2003 Toyota Solara is a convertible version based
on the Camry but offering a different performance profile,
one which is more appropriate to its styling as a strip-cruising
top-down tourer. In the Solara, one enjoys Toyota prestige
and quality whether you choose a coupe or convertible,
the base SE 4-cyl, the more powerful SE V6 or the top-level
SLE V6, where L is for luxury and lots of it.
On top of the highest luxury available on the Camry,
the Solara SLE has leather upholstery, a power convertible
top (on the convertible) and many other top-level luxuries.
The Solara is no slouch either, in terms of performance.
A powerful 3.0-liter V6 engine blends with sophisticated
transmission, brake and suspension systems to make a
smooth riding, easily controlled yet powerful performance
automobile.
Under the Hood
The base SE has the same engine as the three Camry
grades; a 2.4-liter DOHC 4-cyl engine that produces
157 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 162 lb.-ft. of peak
torque at 4,000 rpm. Variable Valve Timing with intelligence
(VVT-i) ensures excellent low- and mid-range power for
superior maneuverability and merging power at highway
speeds. A five-speed manual or four-speed electronic
automatic transmission with intelligence (4ECTi) is
available for the 4-cyl SE.
In contrast, the SE V6 and the SLE both share a second
more powerful power plant. This OHC 3.0-liter V6 produces
192 hp at 5,300 rpm and 209 lb.-ft. of peak torque at
4,400 rpm. V6 models have the automatic transmission
only.
Mileage is respectable on any of these models but the
4-cyl is obviously the better of the two with 23/33
mpg (city/hwy). That said, the 20/27 mpg of the V6 isn't
bad for the power involved. Solaras are EPA-certified
as Ultra Low Emission Vehicles (ULEV).
Dual front airbags, standard on all grades, and 4-wheel
anti-lock disc brakes, fitted on all V6 models, comprise
the standard safety equipment.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
Although categorized as a regular mid-size car, the
convertible or sport coupe Solaras are definitely on
the luxurious side. Standard equipment on the base SE
trim-level runs to such items as air conditioning, cruise
control, AM/FM/cassette/CD player, power steering, mirrors,
windows, door locks and convertible top. Cloth upholstery
on front bucket seats and a split folding rear seat
rounds out the selection.
At the SLE level, automatic climate control, leather
upholstery, including a sporty leather-wrapped steering
wheel, an 8-way power driver and a JBL sound system
are amongst many other amenities.
2009 Toyota Pricing:
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2010 Pricing:
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