The Toyota Camry Solara II Convertible 2.4 16V (157 Hp) Automatic, produced between 2003 and 2006, represented Toyota’s foray into a more stylish and recreational segment of the mid-size car market. Positioned as a premium offering within the broader Camry Solara range (which also included a coupe), the convertible aimed to attract buyers seeking open-air motoring without sacrificing the Camry’s renowned reliability and comfort. This variant utilized the 2AZ-FE engine paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, offering a balance between performance and ease of driving. It was part of the second generation of the Solara (XV20 platform), building upon the initial Solara introduced in 1998.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Camry |
| Generation | Camry Solara II Convertible |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 16V (157 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2003 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| 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 | 9.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 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 | 1525 kg (3362.05 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 | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link 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 |
| Tires size | 215/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Camry Solara II Convertible 2.4 was the 2AZ-FE engine, a 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine was a member of Toyota’s AZ series, known for its durability and relatively smooth operation. It featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its respectable power output for its displacement. The engine utilized multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports for efficient combustion. The 2AZ-FE produced 157 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. Paired with this engine was a five-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth shifts and convenient operation. This transmission was tuned for comfort rather than outright performance, with gear ratios optimized for fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4L automatic configuration of the Solara Convertible provided a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, but not particularly sporty. The five-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, didn’t offer the responsiveness of a manual gearbox or some of the more advanced automatic transmissions available at the time. The focus was clearly on providing a relaxed and enjoyable driving experience, particularly with the top down. Compared to the available V6 engine option in the Solara, the 2.4L felt noticeably less powerful, but it offered better fuel economy. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards maximizing fuel efficiency, resulting in a slightly less engaging driving experience than the available manual transmission.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Camry Solara II Convertible 2.4 Automatic typically came well-equipped, reflecting its positioning as a premium offering. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and cruise control. Upholstery was typically cloth, though leather was available as an option. Higher trim levels added features such as upgraded audio systems, automatic climate control, and power-adjustable seats. Optional extras included a navigation system, premium sound system, and a power-retractable hardtop (in addition to the standard soft top). The interior design was generally conservative and functional, prioritizing comfort and ease of use over flashy styling.
Chassis & Braking
The Solara Convertible utilized an independent suspension system, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. Stabilizer bars were included at both ends to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The chassis was reinforced to compensate for the lack of a fixed roof, maintaining structural rigidity and minimizing flex.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Camry Solara II Convertible was generally well-received by critics, who praised its comfortable ride, reliable powertrain, and stylish design. However, some reviewers noted that the 2.4L engine felt underpowered, particularly when compared to the available V6 option. Fuel economy was considered good for a convertible of its size. Compared to other convertibles in its class, such as the Mazda MX-5 Miata or the Chrysler Sebring Convertible, the Solara offered a more practical and spacious interior, making it a more suitable choice for those who needed to carry passengers or cargo. However, it lacked the sporty handling characteristics of the Miata.
Legacy
The Toyota Camry Solara II Convertible 2.4 Automatic has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle, with many examples still on the road today. The 2AZ-FE engine is known for its longevity, and the five-speed automatic transmission is generally trouble-free. However, like all convertibles, the soft top can be susceptible to wear and tear over time. In the used car market, these Solara Convertibles are often sought after by buyers looking for an affordable and dependable open-air vehicle. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, and parts availability is good. While not a performance icon, the Solara Convertible 2.4 Automatic remains a testament to Toyota’s commitment to building reliable and comfortable vehicles.
