1997-2003 Toyota Camry/Solara: Road Test

All models have less wind and road noise than average. Suspensions readily iron out the rough stuff, while providing a stable and comfortable highway ride. Cornering is marked by moderate body lean, with good grip and safe front-drive responses. Steering is quick and centers well after turns, but effort is too low and road feel is too numb for the best control. In addition, even the more firmly suspended Solara coupe tends to "float" over uneven surfaces. Smooth and quiet for a 4-cylinder, Camry's base engine provides adequate acceleration even with an automatic transmission.Better in 2002 when the engine was enlarged to 2.4 liters. The V6 is far more impressive--smoother and quieter yet, yielding good pickup from low speeds as well as swift passing/merging action. An LE sedan with the V6 averaged a passable 20.4 mpg in hard city/freeway driving. An '01 4-cylinder model returned 22.5 mpg, despite more urban driving. Brakes work beautifully, capable of short, arrow-straight panic stops with little nosedive. Back-seat space is greater than in the prior generation, but four adults will be more comfortable than five. Like most midsize cars, Camry does not have quite enough rear-cabin width to permit uncrowded three-abreast travel. Head and leg room are ample, however, in both front and rear. Entry/exit isn't a problem, either, except into the backseat of the Solara coupe, due to low, narrow rear passageways and lack of a slide-forward driver's seat. Camry cargo space is competitive, and all models have a handy split folding rear seatback. Solara's trunk opening is high, and space is not all that large. Dashboards are typical Toyota, conveniently organized and attractively styled. Most instruments and controls are easy to see and reach. One exception involves the climate panel, which is too low in the center for the easiest operation while driving. Visibility is good, except for a minor over-the-right-shoulder blind spot, due to the wide rear roof posts and tall trunk. Solara coupes have more visibility troubles than the sedan.

Value for the Money
Tight, careful assembly quality helps make the Camry a top-notch value, and a top choice in a midsize family sedan.