2008 Toyota Camry Solara [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 13 Camry-Solara reviews and test drives.
Toyota Camry Solara Ranks #18 in Affordable Midsize Cars
Overall Score - 8.0 (Very Good)
Based on U.S. News editors' analysis of 13 leading automotive reviews and test drives, the 2008 Toyota Camry Solara ranks #18 of 25 in Affordable Midsize Cars.
The 2008 Toyota Camry Solara delivers a smooth, comfortable, predictable ride, paired with spacious front and rear seating, and a massive trunk for the class. But its power and handling can't match the sports performance of some others in its class. If you're in the market for an affordable midsize coupe, you should also consider the Honda Accord Coupe or the Nissan Altima Coupe.
Overall, the Toyota Camry Solara has good performance, styling and dependability. Automotive.com says it's "the perfect way to hold on to all the brand's virtues while providing a little escapism (and looking good, too)." According to The Auto Channel, "Everything on the Camry works with pleasing precision … there is not much to put you off buying a new Camry Solara Coupe."
Others say the Solara's driving experience is smooth, plush and even luxurious, and most refer to it as a great road car with a spacious interior and beautiful, sleek exterior lines. The interior is widely praised for being spacious and well-executed, while the trunk is one of the largest in its class. For 2008, the Camry Solara and the Camry Solara Convertible carry over virtually unchanged.
The 2008 Toyota Camry Solara is available in three trim levels and two body-styles -- each priced accordingly. Given the abundant amount of "luxurious" features that come standard with the Solara, Automobile Magazine describes its price as "merciful." Others agree that the coupe is reasonably priced considering all that it delivers. IntelliChoice gives the 2008 Toyota Camry Solara a rating of "Above Average," based on the total cost of ownership, compared to other vehicles in its class.
Camry-Solara Performance - 7.2 (Good)
Despite being marketed as more of a sports car than it really is, the Camry Solara's smooth handling, combined with a receptive suspension system and a quiet, dependable powertrain, still impress. continue
Camry-Solara Exterior - 6.8 (Mediocre)
Most are pleased the Camry Solara looks a lot more expensive than it really is. Automobile.com specifically mentions the taillights, saying they "give the car a very upscale look at night. Given even Toyota's own luxury brand … has yet to adopt LED taillights across their line, to find them on the back of every Solara is downright impressive." continue
Camry-Solara Interior - 7.9 (Good)
Despite a slightly cramped back seat, the Camry Solara's interior cabin is comfortable, luxurious and altogether spacious. continue
Camry-Solara Safety - 8.3 (Very Good)
Overall, auto writers seem more than satisfied with the level of safety maintained by the Camry Solara. Furthermore, the 2008 model does well in government crash tests. continue
Camry-Solara Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Toyota Camry Solara reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Toyota's competitive vehicle warranty provides basic coverage for three years or 36,000 miles. continue