Toyota Announces Prices for 2004 Solara Convertible, MR2 Spyder, and New Celica Action Package

TORRANCE, Calif., Feb. 23, 2004 -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) today for the all-new 2004 Camry Solara Convertible, the 2004 MR2 Spyder mid-engine sports car and the 2004 Celica sport coupe equipped with the Action Package. The MR2 Spyder and Celica with Action Package go on sale at the end of February while the Solara Convertible will arrive at dealerships at the end of March.

"The new Solara Convertible has been improved in every metric of comparison," said Don Esmond, Toyota Division senior vice president and general manager. "Its many improvements combined with aggressive pricing make the Solara Convertible an outstanding value."

Like the Solara Coupe, the Convertible has a rakish profile and spacious passenger room. The design emphasizes an arc-shaped theme with a continuous line from the front to rear bumper. The ample proportions project a substantial, road-hugging stance.

A standard rear spoiler and standard 17-inch alloy wheels add sporty flair on all Convertibles. Standard fog lamps also highlight the wider, more aggressive appearance.

For ultimate convenience, the electric convertible roof control system quickly opens or closes in just ten seconds by touching a button on the instrument panel. The soft-top stows behind the rear seat and sits low for a sleek, overall appearance. Solara Convertible is equipped with an all-window control system, allowing drivers to open and close all door- and quarter-windows by pressing one button on the instrument panel.

All Convertibles are powered by a 3.3-liter VVT-i V6 engine that produces 225 horsepower at 5,600 RPM and 240 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,600 RPM. The V6 is teamed exclusively to a five-speed sequential automatic transmission and offers a wide gear-ratio spread for quick acceleration. Electronic controls ensure ultra-smooth shift quality. The driver controls the five-speed sequential automatic with a gated shifter that allows manual shifting for a sporty driving experience. EPA fuel economy is rated at 20 mpg city/29 mpg highway.

Standard four-wheel disc brakes and an anti-lock brake system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) help provide responsive, reliable, safe stopping power on all Solara Convertible models. The Convertible also offers vehicle stability (VSC) and traction control (TRAC) systems as optional equipment.

All Solara Convertible models are equipped with standard front seat-mounted side airbags as well as dual stage SRS airbags for driver and passenger that include an occupant classification sensor. A new magnetic front seat belt guide improves in-and-out access of the rear passengers and the ease of loading and unloading of cargo.

Solara Convertible is available in two distinctive model grades: SE, highlighted by sporty metallic-finish interior trim and SLE, with greater content and a woodgrain-style interior trim.

Standard equipment on the SE grade includes air conditioning, cruise control, Deluxe AM/FM/CD Audio with 6 speakers, power auto door locks with anti-lockout feature, eight-way adjustable driver's seat, keyless entry with trunk release, panic function and remote illuminated entry, dual color keyed power outside mirrors, three-spoke tilt/telescopic steering wheel with mounted audio and multi information display controls, fog lamps, daytime running lights, intermittent wipers, and two 12-volt outlets.

The SLE grade includes more luxury amenities such as leather-trimmed interior with heated seats, automatic climate control, power adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar, heated exterior mirrors, auto-dimming inside and driver's side mirrors, JBL premium 3-in-1 audio system with six-disc in-dash CD changer and seven speakers, HomeLink(R) garage door opener, and security system with engine immobilizer.

The improved value of the 2004 Solara Convertible is reflected in its pricing. The 2004 SE starts at $25,950, which is $2,095, or 7.5 percent, less than the 2003 model. The SLE with all of its standard equipment is positioned $1,075, or 3.5 percent, less than the 2003 model with a base MSRP of $29,450.

MR2 Spyder

The MR2 Spyder enters 2004 as a carryover model and offers additional options. The MR2 is now available with an optional performance-enhancing limited slip differential. A new red leather trim package is also offered and includes red leather seat and door trim, red leather-wrapped steering wheel and a red convertible top combined with Phantom Gray Pearl exterior color.

The 2004 MR2 Spyder carries a base MSRP of $24,895 for models equipped with a five-speed manual and $25,895 with a sequential transmission. Prices for both models represent an increase of $250 or 1.0 percent.

Celica Action Package

The new Celica Action Package model features more aggressive styling for 2004. The latest Action Package includes foglamps, color-keyed headlights, clear lens combination lamps, and tailpipe surround and tip. Also, the front and rear bumpers, side rocker panels, hood scoop, and rear spoiler have been redesigned to provide Action Package models with a more distinguished look.

The base MSRP for the Celica GT with Action Package ranges from $19,355, for models with a five-speed manual, to $20,155 with an automatic. The new base pricing reflects an increase of $375, or 2.0 percent. The Celica GT-S Action Package carries a base MSRP of $23,930 for models equipped with a six-speed manual and $24,630 for the automatic, reflecting an increase of $395, or 1.7 percent.