Given that Chicago is currently coated in ice and snow, it’s the last place where you’d want to drive a convertible right now. But that did not stop Toyota introducing a new Camry Solara convertible at the city’s 2004 motor show.
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It’s on sale in March, joining the second generation coupe launched last summer.
The new drop top has a power retractable convertible roof, with headliner and rear glass window, that opens in a claimed 10 seconds.
The convertible will be manufactured only at Toyota’s Kentucky plant in Georgetown.
Unlike the previous model, the latest convertible was designed as such from concept.
A specially MIG welded frame and thick body panels accommodate the hood stack while providing a much higher degree of stiffness, safety, quality, dependability and reliability.
The top stack is installed offline and an ultrasound device checks for air water leaks. Body reinforcements are said to provide significantly higher torsional rigidity resulting in an improved ride, better handling, diminished road and wind noise and increased durability compared with the old model.
There are two trim levels and both versions have a 265bhp 3.3-litre V6 engine with five-speed sequential automatic transmission.
Vehicle stability (VSC) and traction control (TRAC) systems as optional.
All Solara convertibles have standard front seat-mounted side airbags as well as dual stage SRS airbags for driver and passenger with occupant classification sensor. A new magnetic front seat belt guide improves in-and-out access of the rear passengers and the ease of loading and unloading of cargo.
