2008 Toyota Camry Solara Convertible Exterior Review
Exterior - What the Auto Press Says
Reviewers can't reach any kind of consensus over the 2008 Toyota Camry Solara Convertible's appearance. Some think it looks good and some think it looks boring. "Unlike the tall, boxy, and unrelentingly conservative Camry Sedan," says Motor Trend, "the curvy, torpedo-shaped Camry Solara Convertible (and the Coupe it's based on) is pushing the bounds of design; some like it and some just don't."
Automobile.com thinks it's the roof that's at fault: "Like most soft-top convertibles, the Solaras sleekness is marred when its roof is in place ... Otherwise the vehicles proportioning and use of rounded surfaces project a more elegant rather than aggressive image." Autobytel says, "Toyota's Solara offers inoffensive styling, but its bulbous shape places it far behind the muscularly-toned Mustang." The rear end of the Solara Convertible is especially controversial. About.com writes: "While the aerodynamic front quarter of the Solara is quite attractive to most observers, the funky hindquarter could require a bit of getting used to. I'm still undecided whether or not I like it." Autobytel, on the other hand, thinks the back end of the car might appeal to some observers: "For those fond of expansive derrieres, the Solara soft top is definitely the way to go. But, subtract any affinity for booty, and this rather drab Toyota loses its visual appeal quickly."
Getting the top on and off is a snap, according to Autobytel: "The power top is quiet and easy to use." The Family Car agrees: "The power top goes down in 10 seconds." Motor Trend says that "[t]he electric top lowers seamlessly; just flip down two header latches and push the dash-mounted button." Edmunds, despite second thoughts about the latches, seems to agree: "I don't really like the idea of dealing with latches on a power-operated top, but this pair is easy to undo. They're also easy to resecure, thanks to a well-placed grab handle on the front edge of the top that aligns it just right."
