2003 Toyota Solara: Road Test
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2003 Toyota Solara ▼
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- MSRP: $19,365 -$30,525
- Invoice: $17,427 -$27,472
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Our road test for the 2003 Toyota Solara includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Toyota Solara from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Toyota Solara, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Toyota Solara help you decide if a 2003 Toyota Solara is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| SE cpe, 4 cyl auto. | SLE conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5.2 |
Solara's 4 cyl provides acceptable pep and works happily with automatic transmission. But these relatively heavy cars--especially the ragtop--really need the smooth V6 for decent overall performance. Alas, even that engine can't overcome the heft; a V6 Solara is far less lively than an Acura CL, for example.
FUEL ECONOMY
| SE cpe, 4 cyl auto. | SLE conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5.3 |
Test 4-cyl SE coupe with automatic transmission averaged 21.8 mpg. Test SLE convertible averaged 20.1 mpg. Toyota recommends regular-grade gas for the 4 cyl, premium for the V6.
RIDE QUALITY
| SE cpe, 4 cyl auto. | SLE conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.3 |
Comfortably supple and absorbent in all models, with little unwanted float over dips and swells.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SE cpe, 4 cyl auto. | SLE conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 6.1 |
Predictable and pleasant, but coupe structure far more solid than convertible, and less body flex means far more confident road manners. Body lean apparent but not excessive in tight, fast turns. Not much road feel through steering. Brakes strong, easily modulated, but be sure to get the ABS.
QUIETNESS
| SE cpe, 4 cyl auto. | SLE conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 5 | 5.5 |
Coupes boast top-of-class refinement, but recent test convertible suffered undue rough-road body shudder and a creaky top. Minor tire thrum on coarse pavement in all Solaras, but 4-cyl engine is almost as smooth and quiet as the V6.
CONTROLS
| SE cpe, 4 cyl auto. | SLE conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 6.5 |
Simple, intuitive, conservative. Fine workmanship, materials.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SE cpe, 4 cyl auto. | SLE conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.9 |
Adult-size space, comfortable bucket seats, good range of adjustments. Drivers must endure some nagging over-the-shoulder blind spots, especially in convertible with its smaller rear window.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| SE cpe, 4 cyl auto. | SLE conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4.4 |
Two adults is the comfortable limit. Awkward entry/exit due to narrowish floor passages, cumbersome front-seat latches and belts.
CARGO ROOM
| SE cpe, 4 cyl auto. | SLE conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 4.7 |
Trunk adequate in coupe, tighter but still useful in convertible. Both have relatively high liftovers. Interior storage nothing special.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| SE cpe, 4 cyl auto. | SLE conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 6.2 |
Solara is a polished car with a rather dull demeanor, emphasizing quietness and ride comfort over sporty handling and acceleration. The 2-dr design impedes rear access, but the back seat itself is no penalty box. Convertibles suffer too much top-down body flex, making coupes, literally, the more solid choice.
Total Score
| SE cpe, 4 cyl auto. | SLE conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 60 | 55 | 56.1 |
Total Score: 58
Scores for all Midsize Cars
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