April 18, 2003

Toyota's new Camry Solara coupe is roomier

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New York, New York NEW YORK, April 17 /CNW/ - The second generation Toyota Camry Solara coupe made its world premiere at the New York Auto Show.

"With all aspects of the 2004 Solara's development taking place in North America, the total package which was completed in less than two years should be a perfect fit for Canadians too," said Tony Wearing, Group Vice President at TCI. "The final creation is a new Solara that is sportier, more powerful, more refined and larger, inside and out, than its predecessor."

Solara will be powered by either a V6 or 4-cylinder engine. An all-new 3.3-litre V6 will generate 225 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 240 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,600 rpm. The 2.4-litre 4-cylinder engine will produce 157 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 162 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. With both engines, Solara will be EPA-certified as a Level II Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (Level II-ULEV). Solaras equipped with the V6 will be mated to an all-new five-speed automatic sequential transmission.

The 2004 Solara will be available in the SLE, SE and SE Sport grades, each with its own interior surface treatments. The SLE model will receive a rich wood-grain trim, while a brushed aluminum and silver finish trim will be applied to the SE grade. SE models equipped with an all-new Sports Package will feature a unique interior complete with black graphite-accented trim.

The 2004 Solara offers a remarkable 20 percent increase in interior storage space by providing for a new front console box, cupholders that double as additional storage, and a centre console that offers dual storage units.

A target of best-in-class safety features will be supported by Solara's use of standard front side-impact airbags, four-wheel ABS and independent rear seat headrests. Front and rear curtain side airbags will also be available.

The new Sports Package, available on SE models, will include a special five-piece body enhancement kit, a unique dark-charcoal interior with black graphite trim, sport-fabric seats, all-season sport tires wrapped around 17- inch wheels, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob and distinctive aluminum pedals. The Sports Package will also feature a performance-tuned suspension that includes stiffer front and rear springs, as well as sport- tuned front and rear shock absorbers.

The first generation Solara debuted in the fall of 1998. The first 2004 Solara model will roll off the line later this summer and will go on sale in early September.

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