The Toyota Camry Solara II 2.4 16V Automatic, produced between 2003 and 2006, represented a coupe variant within the fourth generation (XV40) Camry family. Positioned as a more stylish and sporty alternative to the traditional Camry sedan, the Solara aimed to attract buyers seeking a personal luxury coupe. This particular configuration, featuring the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, served as the entry-level powertrain option for the Solara II, offering a balance of fuel efficiency and adequate performance. It was built on the MC platform, shared with other Toyota models of the era.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Camry |
| Generation | Camry Solara II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 16V (157 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2003 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 157 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 4000 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2AZ-FE |
| Engine displacement | 2362 cm3 (144.14 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88.5 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1420 kg (3130.56 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 391 l (13.81 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4890 mm (192.52 in.) |
| Width | 1816 mm (71.5 in.) |
| Height | 1425 mm (56.1 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1547 mm (60.91 in.) |
| Rear track | 1534 mm (60.39 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission ECT-i |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Solara variant was the 2AZ-FE engine, a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder powerplant. This engine utilized a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively efficient breathing. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The 2AZ-FE was known for its reliability and relatively smooth operation. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission, designated ECT-i (Electronically Controlled Transmission – intelligent). This transmission offered smooth shifts but lacked the responsiveness of a manual gearbox or more modern automatic transmissions with additional gears. The ECT-i transmission featured overdrive for improved highway fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 157-horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque produced by the 2.4L engine and automatic transmission combination resulted in adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was estimated to be around 9-10 seconds. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for comfort and fuel efficiency rather than aggressive acceleration. Compared to the optional 3.3-liter V6 engine available in other Solara trims, this 2.4L version felt noticeably less powerful, particularly during highway merging and overtaking maneuvers. However, the 2.4L offered a more economical driving experience, and the automatic transmission made it a user-friendly choice for daily commuting.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.4L automatic Solara typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and basic cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, such as the SE and SLE, added features like leather upholstery, upgraded audio systems, sunroofs, and alloy wheels. Optional extras included a navigation system, premium sound systems, and automatic climate control. The base model focused on providing essential features at an accessible price point, while the higher trims offered a more luxurious experience.
Chassis & Braking
The Solara II utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. Front disc brakes were ventilated for improved cooling, while the rear brakes were solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The suspension tuning prioritized ride comfort over sporty handling, making it well-suited for everyday driving. Stabilizer bars were included both front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally viewed the 2.4L Solara as a competent and comfortable coupe, but often noted its lack of outright performance compared to the V6 models. Fuel economy was a strong point, and the automatic transmission was praised for its smoothness. However, some reviewers found the interior materials to be somewhat basic, especially in the lower trim levels. Compared to competitors like the Honda Accord Coupe and the Nissan Maxima, the Solara offered a distinctive styling and a reputation for Toyota reliability. The 2.4L version was often seen as a more practical and affordable alternative to the more powerful and expensive V6-equipped Solaras.
Legacy
The 2AZ-FE engine, in general, has proven to be a durable and reliable powerplant. With proper maintenance, these engines can easily exceed 200,000 miles. The four-speed automatic transmission, while not as sophisticated as modern transmissions, is also generally reliable. In the used car market, the 2.4L Solara is often sought after by buyers looking for an affordable and dependable coupe. Its relatively simple mechanical design and readily available parts contribute to its lower maintenance costs. While not a performance icon, the Solara II 2.4L Automatic remains a practical and stylish choice for those seeking a comfortable and reliable personal coupe.
