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2000 Toyota Camry/Solara Full Review
Date Published: 7/31/08
2000 Toyota Camry/Solara Review
Minor trim and equipment revisions highlight the year-2000 editions of America's best-selling car line and its companion coupe series, while a convertible version of the 2-door is new this spring.
Camry far outsells Solara and offers sedans in CE, LE, and top-shelf XLE models. CEs come only with a 4-cylinder engine. A V6 is available on LE and XLE. CEs and LEs offer manual or optional automatic transmission; XLEs automatic only. Camrys get new grilles, bumpers, and taillights, plus multi-reflector headlamps and self-propping hoods. XLEs add imitation wood interior trim and the XLE V6 goes to standard 16-inch wheels versus other models' 15s or 14s.
Solaras share Camry's sedan platform and are marketed as "Camrys," but have unique styling and chassis tuning. Joining the coupe is a convertible with a power top and glass rear window. The droptop is expected to account for only about 6000 of the 50,000 Solaras built annually. Solaras come as SE models with the 4-cylinder or V6 engine, plus as upscale SLE V6s. All convertibles and SLE V6 coupes have automatic transmission. SE coupes with either engine can be equipped with a 5-speed manual.
Front side airbags are optional in both lines. Antilock brakes are optional with the 4-cylinder engine and standard with the V6, where they include rear discs. Other changes for both model lines include revised climate controls and upgraded audio systems, including a standard CD player.
Competition
Perennial Best Buys Honda Accord and Toyota Camry continue to shine with refinement, model diversity, and comfort. Both come in coupe and sedan form, offer economic 4-cylinder or sporty V6 power, have room for four adults, and are reasonably priced.
Recommended models include the smooth Buick Century, the import-flavored Chevy Malibu, the sporty Nissan Maxima, surprising Olds Intrigue, and the good-looking Pontiac Grand Prix. All come with V6 power, offer lots of standard equipment, and have pleasing road manners that will suit a variety of driving styles.
If you are looking for something a touch bigger without spending a whole lot more we suggest the Budget Buy Chevy Impala. It's the largest car in this class, has a powerful V6, and doesn't cost any more than the others.
News
Camry has been at or near the top of the popularity chart for several years now, and it remains a strong seller as well as one of our perennial Best Buys. However, Toyota's mainstream family car isn't enjoying the sales growth of some rivals despite today's super-heated market, scoring a modest 4-percent gain in calendar '99 and just over 1 percent year-to-year for the first four months of 2000. Even so, don't expect substantial dealer discounting any time soon. The same applies to the Solara coupe and its just-launched convertible companion.
Toyota always plays its new-model cards very close to the corporate vest, so we have no specifics on the 2001 Camrys or Solaras. However, industry sources say that sedans will get a full makeover for 2002, including new-design 4-cylinder and V6 engines that require no valve adjustments. The 2-door Solaras should follow suit, with a probable introduction as 2003 models.
2000 Toyota Camry/Solara Road Test
Pros Cons
Acceleration (V6) Rear visibility
Ride Steering feel
Quietness Rear-seat entry/exit (Solara)
Build quality
Exterior finish
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration

Camry LE/XLE, I4 auto. Camry LX/XLE, V6 auto. Solara SE cpe, I4 auto. Solara SLE conv. Class Average
5 6 5 6 4.7

Strong in both Camry and Solara with the V6: under 8 seconds 0-60 mph in our tests. The 4-cylinder is decently peppy, if noticeably less muscular than the V6, especially with automatic transmission. Convertibles weigh about 200 pounds more than coupes, and our test 4-cylinder ragtop did 0-60 mph in a leisurely 11 seconds.
Fuel Economy

Camry LE/XLE, I4 auto. Camry LX/XLE, V6 auto. Solara SE cpe, I4 auto. Solara SLE conv. Class Average
6 5 6 5 5.4

Competitive but not eye-popping. A 4-cylinder Camry managed 22.5 mpg in urban driving, while V6 test cars have averaged in the low-20s with more highway work.
Ride Quality

Camry LE/XLE, I4 auto. Camry LX/XLE, V6 auto. Solara SE cpe, I4 auto. Solara SLE conv. Class Average
7 7 6 6 5

Comfortable and absorbent on most any surface, but even the more firmly damped coupes tend to float over humps and dips. The convertible's structural reinforcements do their job well, making this one of the stiffer 4-seat convertibles we've tested.
Steering/Handling/Braking

Camry LE/XLE, I4 auto. Camry LX/XLE, V6 auto. Solara SE cpe, I4 auto. Solara SLE conv. Class Average
5 5 5 5 5

Though safe, predictable, and pleasant to drive, these are not sporty cars. Steering is precise but also a bit overboosted and numb. And body lean is marked in hard, tight turns.
Quietness

Camry LE/XLE, I4 auto. Camry LX/XLE, V6 auto. Solara SE cpe, I4 auto. Solara SLE conv. Class Average
7 7 7 5 5

Noise suppression rivals luxury cars costing thousands more. Engines are smooth, and there's little intrusion from wind or road.
Controls

Camry LE/XLE, I4 auto. Camry LX/XLE, V6 auto. Solara SE cpe, I4 auto. Solara SLE conv. Class Average
10 10 10 10 6

A model of simple, friendly design, though the steering wheel rim can slice into the view of the top of the main gauges.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

Camry LE/XLE, I4 auto. Camry LX/XLE, V6 auto. Solara SE cpe, I4 auto. Solara SLE conv. Class Average
7 7 7 7 5.2

No shortage of head or leg room. Bucket seats are well-padded and contoured for comfort and support.
Room/Comfort (rear)

Camry LE/XLE, I4 auto. Camry LX/XLE, V6 auto. Solara SE cpe, I4 auto. Solara SLE conv. Class Average
5 5 3 3 4.1

Six-footers have good head room, and, with the front seats less than halfway back, ample leg room. Not wide enough for long-distance 3-across adult travel, however. Entry/exit in the coupes and convertibles suffer from low, narrowish rear passageways, no slide-forward feature on the driver's seat, and cumbersome front seat latches and belts.
Cargo Room

Camry LE/XLE, I4 auto. Camry LX/XLE, V6 auto. Solara SE cpe, I4 auto. Solara SLE conv. Class Average
3 3 3 2 4.5

Competitive, but Solara's trunk opening is high off the ground and not that large. All models have split-fold rear seatbacks with in-trunk security locks.
Value within Class

Camry LE/XLE, I4 auto. Camry LX/XLE, V6 auto. Solara SE cpe, I4 auto. Solara SLE conv. Class Average
10 9 8 6 5.3

Camry and Solara are exceptionally well-done mainstream midsize cars with the attractions of Toyota reliability and high resale value. We might wish for more personality and lower prices, but these cars are hard to fault and tough to beat. Convertibles aren't inexpensive, but they are are highly refined and exude typical Toyota quality.
Total Score

Camry LE/XLE, I4 auto. Camry LX/XLE, V6 auto. Solara SE cpe, I4 auto. Solara SLE conv. Class Average
65 64 60 55 50.2
Scores for all Midsize Cars

Low Score
38
Average Score
50
High Score
65
2000 Toyota Camry/Solara Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 06/06/2000
Trim Name Retail Price Dealer Invoice Destination Charge
Camry CE 4-cylinder 4-door sedan, 5-speed $17,518 $15,516 $455
Camry CE 4-cylinder 4-door sedan, automatic $18,318 $16,225 $455
Camry LE 4-cylinder 4-door sedan, automatic $20,388 $17,849 $455
Camry LE V6 4-door sedan, 5-speed $22,358 $19,574 $455
Camry LE V6 4-door sedan, automatic $23,158 $20,273 $455
Camry XLE 4-cylinder 4-door sedan, automatic $24,068 $21,071 $455
Camry XLE V6 4-door sedan, automatic $26,198 $22,935 $455
Solara SE 4-cylinder 2-door coupe, 5-speed $18,938 $16,774 $455
Solara SE 4-cylinder 2-door coupe, automatic $19,738 $17,483 $455
Solara SE 4-cylinder 2-door conv., automatic $25,068 $22,204 $455
Solara SE V6 2-door coupe, 5-speed $21,648 $19,175 $455
Solara SE V6 2-door coupe, automatic $22,448 $19,884 $455
Solara SE V6 2-door convertible, automatic $28,008 $24,808 $455
Solara SLE 2-door coupe, automatic $25,638 $22,746 $455
Solara SLE 2-door convertible, automatic $30,488 $27,006 $455
Price note: Prices are for vehicles distributed by Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. The dealer invoice and destination charge may be higher in areas served by independent distributors.
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Camry CE
Powertrain
2.2-liter dohc 4-cylinder, 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Variable-assist power steering, tilt steering column, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, center console, cupholders, split folding rear seat, tachometer, AM/FM/cassette/CD player, digital clock, intermittent wipers, remote fuel-door and trunk releases, rear defogger.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Dual remote outside mirrors, 195/70R14 tires, wheel covers.
Camry LE adds to Camry CE:
Powertrain
2.2-liter dohc 4-cylinder, or 3.0-liter dohc V6 engine.
Safety
Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes (V6), daytime running lights (V6).
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, cruise control, height-adjustable driver seat, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, variable intermittent wipers.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
205/65R15 tires.
Camry XLE adds to Camry LE:
Powertrain
4-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
Antilock brakes, 4-wheel disc brakes (V6), daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Power front seats w/driver-seat manual lumbar support, remote keyless entry, automatic climate control, JBL sound system, illuminated visor mirrors, leather-wrapped steering wheel, automatic headlights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, 205/60R16 tires (V6), alloy wheels.
Solara SE adds to Camry LE:
Safety
Daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Illuminated visor mirrors, overhead console, power convertible top (convertible), automatic headlights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, rear spoiler (convertible), fog lights, full-size spare tire.
Solara SLE adds to SE:
Powertrain
3.0-liter dohc V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Automatic climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather upholstery, 8-way power driver seat, remote keyless entry, heated power mirrors, JBL sound system, automatic day/night mirror, universal garage door opener, outside temperature indicator.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Rear spoiler, 205/60R16 tires, alloy wheels.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages
Retail Price
Invoice Price
Value Pkg. 1
CE
$1,897
$
Air conditioning, power mirrors and door locks, power windows, variable intermittent wipers, floormats.
Value Pkg. 4
LE 4-cylinder
$632
$
Remote keyless entry, power driver seat, floormats.
Value Pkg. 3
LE 4-cylinder
$1,242
$
LE V6
$632
$
Antilock brakes, daytime running lights, remote keyless entry, power driver seat, floormats.
Value Pkg. 5
LE 4-cylinder
$2,342
$
LE V6
$1,732
$
Value Pkg. 3 plus leather upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.
Value Pkg. 2, XLE
XLE 4-cylinder
$2,604
$
XLE V6
$2,604
$
Front side-airbags, leather upholstery, power sunroof, JBL AM/FM/cassette w/6-disc CD changer, map lights, floormats.
Sport Pkg.
LE
$1,193
$949
Fog lights, rear spoiler, badging, alloy wheels.
Gold Pkg.
SE 4-cylinder
$173
$115
SE V6, SLE
$224
$149
Upgrade Pkg. 1
SE
$775
$620
8-way power driver seat, alloy wheels.
Upgrade Pkg. 2
SE coupe
$1,675
$1,340
Upgrade Pkg. 1 plus power sunroof, map lights.
Sport Upgrade Pkg. 3
SE 4-cylinder coupe
$2,810
$2,248
Leather upholstery, 8-way power driver seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel, power sunroof, map lights, alloy wheels.
Sport Upgrade Pkg. 4
SE V6 coupe
$1,530
$1,232
SE V6 convertible
$900
$704
Leather-wrapped steering wheel, 8-way power driver seat, JBL AM/FM/cassette/CD player, rear spoiler (coupe), 205/60R16 tires, alloy wheels.
Upgrade Pkg. 5
SE V6 coupe
$2,430
$1,952
Sport Upgrade Pkg. 4 plus power sunroof, map lights.
Upgrade Pkg. 6
SE V6 coupe
$3,455
$2,772
Upgrade Pkg. 5 plus leather upholstery.
Upgrade Pkg. 6, SE convertible
Camry CE , Camry LE , Camry XLE , Solara SE, Solara SLE
$1,925
$1,524
Sport Upgrade Pkg. 4 plus leather upholstery.
Powertrain
Traction control
LE V6 automatic, XLE V6, SLE
$300
$240
Safety
Antilock brakes
CE, SE 4-cylinder
$610
$521
Camry includes daytime running lights.
Front side-impact airbags
Camry CE , Camry LE , Camry XLE , Solara SE, Solara SLE
$250
$215
CE requires Value Pkg. 1.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Cruise control
CE
$250
$200
Power sunroof
LE
$1,000
$800
SE coupe, SLE
$900
$720
Power driver seat
SE
$390
$312
JBL AM/FM/cassette/CD player
LE
$290
$218
JBL AM/FM/cassette w/6-disc CD changer
SLE
$200
$150
6-disc CD changer
Camry
$550
$385
Universal garage door opener
Camry
$199
$136
Security System
CE, LE
$439
$275
Remote keyless entry, theft-deterrent system.
Wood dashboard
Camry
$499
$255
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Fog lights
Camry
$399
$249
Mudguards
Camry
$60
$48
Solara
$80
$64
Rear spoiler
Camry
$539
$329
Alloy wheels
CE
$755
$560
LE 4-cylinder
$385
$308
LE V6
$592
$440
2000 Toyota Camry/Solara Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification Toyota Camry/Solara 2-door coupe Toyota Camry/Solara 4-door sedan Toyota Camry/Solara 2-door convertible
Wheelbase, in. 105.1 105.2 105.1
Overall Length, in. 190.0 188.5 190.0
Overall Width, in. 71.1 70.1 71.1
Overall Height, in. 55.1 55.4 55.5
Curb Weight, lbs. 3120 2998 3437
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. 13.8 14.1 8.8
Standard Payload, lbs. -- -- --
Fuel Capacity, gals. 18.5 18.5 18.5
Seating Capacity 5 5 4
Front Head Room, in. 38.3 38.6 38.8
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 43.3 43.5 43.3
Rear Head Room, in. 36.3 37.6 37.7
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 35.2 35.5 35.3
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
  dohc I4 dohc I4 dohc V6 dohc V6
Size, liters/cu. in. 2.2 /132 2.2 /132 3.0 /183 3.0 /183
Horsepower @ rpm. 136 @ 5200 138 @ 5200 194 @ 5200 200 @ 5200
Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. 147 @ 4400 147 @ 4400 209 @ 4400 214 @ 4400
Availability Standard Standard Standard Standard
EPA City / highway mpg
       
5-speed manual 23/32 23/32 21/28 21/28
4-speed automatic 23/30 23/30 20/28 20/28
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft; dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders; V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Test Toyota Camry/Solara 2-door coupe Toyota Camry/Solara 4-door sedan Toyota Camry/Solara 2-door convertible
Collision NA 3 NA
Collision (HLDI) NA 85 NA
Front Impact, Driver NA 4 NA
Front Impact, Passenger NA 5 NA
Injury NA 3 NA
Injury (HLDI) NA 95 NA
Side Impact, Driver 3 3 NA
Side Impact, Rear Passenger 5 3 NA
Theft NA 3 NA
Theft (HLDI) NA 96 NA
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
Class Years/Miles Comments
Powertrain 5/60,000 --
Bumper-to-bumper 3/36,000 --
Corrosion 12/unlimited --
Free roadside assistance None/-- --
Free scheduled maintenance None/-- --
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive. There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for 2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in: USA, Japan, Canada
Drivewheels: front-wheel drive
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