While there's a major difference between the 2004 and 2003 model it replaces, most should see the familial resemblance between the two. That similarity is made more evident under the long, sweeping hood, where the front-drive Solara shares its powertrain with its 4-door Camry sibling. Either four or six-cylinder engines will be offered, the former a 2.4-L reaching 157-hp at 5,600 rpm and 162 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm, and the latter a 3.3-L V6, with 225-hp at 5,600 and 240 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm.
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| Two different engines will be offered for the Solara, a 157-hp 2.4-L four-cylinder and a 225-hp 3.3-L V6. (Photo: Toyota) |
Biased for torque, the V6 engine will no doubt compliment the Solara's all-new five-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift mode. Toyota transmissions are respected for precise, smooth shifts, and the new 5-speed should be a solid step ahead. Base 4-cylinder models get the choice of either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic.
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| Although its main focus will be comfort and luxury, the Solara's new suspension will be performance-tuned, resulting in a "stable yet invigorating steering feel and response." (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
Toyota is also one of the leaders when it comes to environmental concerns, with what is considered to be the world's most advanced hybrid gas-electric powertrain gearing up to drive more than just its heavily revised Prius. Of the new models to go hybrid, the new coupe is not initially considered a high priority, but nevertheless both four and six-cylinder gasoline powered engines will be EPA-certified to make the Solara a Level II Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (Level II-ULEV).
And what about handling? The outgoing car does a good job of managing tight and twisting corners, but compared to sportier cars like Toyota's Celica, is biased towards comfort and luxury. For the most part this focus will continue, but Toyota has made a point of stating the new suspension will be performance-tuned. Compared to the current car almost all mountings and pivot points that connect the suspension to the body are repositioned and recalibrated. To achieve that perfect balance of ride and handling Toyota adds specially-tuned shocks, unique springs and rear stabilizer bars. All the improvements are said to "reduce roll and pitch" while resulting in "stable yet invigorating steering feel and response." As expected 4-wheel ABS equipped disc brakes with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) comes standard.