2006 Toyota Camry Solara SE Convertible Test Drive

Rain or not, Solara shines

It rained the week I had a convertible. Darn the luck. But thanks to a major update in 2005, my 2006 Camry Solara convertible helped me forget all about the weather. Even though it was the newly "decontented" (read: stripped down) base model (which, by the way, boasts Toyota's brilliant 3.3L V-6 with an excellent 5-speed automatic), the Solara ragtop still knows how to show a person a good time. MSRP: $26,540; Warranty: 3/36,000.

First Glance

The Camry Solara convertible was completely re-designed both inside and out for the '05 model year. The first generation Solara convertible had been a bit of a sow's ear but the makeover turned it into a real beauty. The redesign included a new front fascia, aggressive new cat's-eye shaped headlights, completely new rear fascia with a redesigned taillight assembly and trunk lid with small Lexus SC-like built-in spoiler. Still the new Solara's uncanny resemblance to the first generation persists, even though the two look (and actually are) significantly different both inside and out. While the aerodynamic front quarter of the Solara is quite attractive to most observers, the funky hindquarter could require a bit of getting used to. I'm still undecided whether or not I like it. Probably it's one of those design features which takes time to appreciate. I felt the same way about the rear treatment of the first generation Acura CL coupe (now discontinued). Overall, though, the design of the second generation Solara is far better than the first generation. Even the subtle add-on ground effects body cladding, normally a no-go zone for me, does not detract from the overall elegance of this automobile.

In the Driver's Seat

The interior of the Solara convertible features a truly innovative and creative use of contemporary materials. The metal-like plastic on the center console is a big step forward aesthetically over the fake wood used in the previous generation Solara. In the SE model we tested, two types of fabric have been used on the front and rear seats and on the side bolsters where the hardest wear might be expected. I would choose the base SE over the upscale SLE, which features leather-covered seats, for this fabric alone. The rear seats are exceptionally comfortable for a convertible. Two full size adults can actually ride back there - if they can get in. With the top up, this can be a bit of a chore since the front seats don't easily fold out of the way - they fold away, but not easily. The seat belts, which are attached to the C-pillar get in the way of your feet and further complicate matters. Incidentally, there's a feature that could use some of the vaunted Toyota kaizen. The double thick fabric convertible top (with standard heated glass rear window) was able easily to keep out the hard rain that fell persistently in Vancouver during my test week.

On the Road

The first generation coupe was thoroughly vetted in '04 by About's ace tester (and Guide Emeritus) Philip Powell, who decreed it justly deserved to wear the fabled Camry moniker. However, the raptop was another story. It suffered from a lack of body stiffness with the result that it shook like Santa's belly over rough roads. That problem was addressed in the '05 re-make but some reviewers noticed the control of cowl shake at low speed still fell below the standard set by the class leaders. About Cars Guide Aaron Gold felt the same way. Chassis stiffness was re-visited for the '06 model and I am happy to report I detected very little cowl shake (or "scuttle-shake" as the legendary LJK Settright who graced British auto journalism for decades, styled it.) The 3.3L, 24-valve, 225hp (240 lb-ft) variable valve V-6 was first offered in the sporty '04 Camry SE sedan. It is a glorious piece of engineering exhibiting great all-round performance and effortless high-speed capability. Unfortunately, that ain't the type of driving I do most of the time. Most of my driving is in town. Frankly, I found this engine to be a bit of a gas guzzler. Regrettably, Toyota's superb 4-banger is not offered in the convertible.

Journey's End

Generally speaking, the Solara convertible is a fantastic automobile - especially when the very reasonable selling price of the base SE model is taken into account. However, it is not perfect. While the rear seats can accommodate two full size adults, the permanent headrests back there can restrict the driver's rearward vision. They should at least be foldable. The doors open very wide. Which is a good thing. But even with my 35inch sleeve length I found it a stretch to reach the handle to close the driver's side door. Others will have an even more difficult time. Electronic stability control (VSC) with traction control and brake assist is not available in the SE model. To get these important safety features you have spend an extra three grand or so for the SLE model. The problem is then you also get the leather-covered seats, which are not, frankly, something you really want in a car open to the weather. The Solara is built on the Camry platform - one of the most refined passenger cars available at any price. For the first hundred miles or so I was behind the wheel of the Solara convertible, I felt I could have been driving a Mercedes-Benz CLK such was the comfort level and the ride quality. Toyota's done it again.