2004 Toyota Solara - Reviews - Buying Guide
2004 Toyota Solara Buying Resources:
2004 Toyota Solara Review:
If you’ve ever wondered why Toyota doesn’t come out with
a two-door version of the prized Camry sedan, then you’ve
obviously not heard of the Solara. For that’s exactly what
it is: a two-door coupe that compliments the Camry with slightly
more style.
However, the Solara won’t always be offered solely as a coupe.
Later in the 2004 model year, Toyota plans on unveiling an
all-new Solara convertible model. It should attract more and
more of those people who like to drive around and feel the
wind blowing in their hair. You know who you are.
Regardless, the 2004 version of the Solara is as up-to-date
as possible thanks to a complete redesign. Using the latest
Camry platform, the car gains about two inches in wheelbase
and height and one in overall length. In addition, there are
more options offered this year as well.
Under the Hood
There are two engines available with this year’s Solara.
One is a peppy inline 4-cylinder model, the other is a rumbling
V6.
Each of the three trims (SE, SE Sport and SLE) can be had
with either engine. The I4 is a 2.4-liter model that produces
up to 157 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 162 lb-ft of torque at
4000 rpm.
Though that amount of push is nice, it doesn’t come close
to comparing to the meaty V6 engine that can be had this year.
A 3.3-liter V6, it cranks out 225 horsepower at 5600 rpm and
240 lb-ft of torque at 3600 rpm.
5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic and 5-speed automatic transmissions
are all offered. SE Sport models feature unique lower-body
styling, performance-tuned suspension and 17-inch wheels.
When one considers this, the origination of their name is
not difficult to understand.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
SLE models have a plethora of features that one might not
expect to find in a car with the Solara’s price. But come
they do. 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.
SLE models with the V6 engine add leather upholstery and
heated front seats. Satellite radio, curtain side airbags
and a navigation system are optional.
The navigation system uses touch-screen DVD technology to
assist in locating an address or point of interest.
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