Taking a seat in the Solara surrounds one in a stylish, user-friendly cabin. Three cutouts housing LCD information screens atop the centre stack add
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| The Solara's living space is comprised of quality materials consistent with those found in its Camry cousin. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
"sportiness" to the dash layout reminiscent of domestic sleds from the 1960s. I particularly like this touch.
Except for an abundance of molded plastic surrounding the rear seating area, the Solara's living space is comprised of quality materials consistent with those found in its Camry cousin. Solara seating is comfortable but not BMW-like supportive, which is no surprise when you compare price tags.
Once two latches are manually released, Toyota's ragtop electrically drops its tight-fitting fabric roof in a matter of seconds. As with most lidless cars these days, the Solara's rear window is comprised of glass and electrically heated to ward-off frost and fog. Old school in the concealment of the Solara's retracted roof is the need to manually attach its ill-fitting soft tonneau cover. To complete the Solara's gorgeous drop-top look, the
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| It doesn't take more than a block or two to appreciate just how refined Toyota's roofless wonder is. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
bulky tonneau must be pulled from the trunk and manipulated into place, leading to the inevitable 'is it really worth it' pondering.
But alas, the true joy of a convertible isn't found in its tonneau cover, but rather in blue skies overhead. And so it was the day I departed for home after picking up this week's tester. Instantly my spirits lightened and the awaiting rush hour traffic melted away with the warmth of the sun on my shoulders. It doesn't take more than a block or two to appreciate just how refined Toyota's roofless wonder is - the name Lexus comes to mind. The only engine available in the Solara is a silken 225-horsepower 3.3-litre (201 cu in) DOHC V6 that twists out a healthy 240 pounds-feet of torque 3,600 rpm.
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