For decades, the Toyota Camry has been synonymous with reliability, comfort, and practicality. It’s one of the best-selling cars in the United States, trusted by families, commuters, and rental fleets alike. But in 2020, Toyota added a new flavor to the Camry lineup: the Camry TRD 2024 — a performance-oriented variant that redefines what the Camry can be. This isn’t your average family sedan. It’s a vehicle that dares to challenge the conventions of the midsize category, delivering driving excitement without compromising daily usability.
Overview: What Is the Camry TRD V6?
The TRD badge — which stands for Toyota Racing Development — has long been associated with off-road-capable trucks like the Tacoma and high-performance variants of models like the Supra and 86. Applying that same philosophy to the traditionally conservative Camry may sound unusual, but it works in surprising and exciting ways.
At its core, the Camry TRD V6 takes the proven foundation of the Camry XSE V6 and builds upon it with performance enhancements, aggressive styling upgrades, and a sportier suspension setup. This is not a separate trim from the base Camry; it’s a performance model purpose-built by Toyota’s in-house motorsport division to appeal to drivers looking for both performance and dependability.
Powertrain and Performance
The heart of the Toyota Camry TRD is its 3.5-liter V6 engine, which pumps out 301 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. This power is channeled to the front wheels through a responsive 8-speed automatic transmission. It’s the same powertrain found in the Camry XSE V6, but the TRD's modifications focus on enhancing the driving experience rather than increasing raw output.
Acceleration and Throttle Response
In real-world driving, the Camry TRD is brisk and capable. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in about 5.8 seconds, which is impressive for a front-wheel-drive sedan in this price range. The throttle response is sharp, and the engine delivers a strong mid-range punch that makes highway merges and overtaking feel effortless.
Suspension and Handling
The TRD-specific sport-tuned suspension is where the model truly sets itself apart. It features:
Stiffer springs
TRD shocks
Thicker underbody braces
Unique stabilizer bars
These components reduce body roll, sharpen turn-in, and give the car a more planted feel in corners. While it doesn't compete with rear-wheel-drive sports sedans in pure handling prowess, the Camry TRD holds its own with composed and confident behavior on winding roads.
Additionally, the dual exhaust system not only adds a growling soundtrack but also offers slight improvements in exhaust flow.
Exterior Design
One look at the Camry TRD and it’s clear this isn’t your typical midsize sedan. It wears a track-inspired body kit that includes:
A black front splitter
Side aero skirts
A rear diffuser
A prominent rear spoiler
Black TRD badging
The car rides on 19-inch matte-black TRD wheels, wrapped in Continental ProContact Sport tires. Red-painted brake calipers peek out from behind the wheels, reinforcing its performance credentials.
Color options for the TRD model include bold contrasts like Supersonic Red with black roof, Wind Chill Pearl, and Celestial Silver Metallic, all offering a sharp contrast to the dark accents.
The aggressive stance, lowered ride height, and sleek lines transform the Camry’s traditionally conservative appearance into something more akin to a sports sedan. It’s a vehicle that turns heads without being over-the-top.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the TRD Camry maintains the spacious, comfortable cabin that the model is known for, but with some sporty enhancements:
Unique TRD Interior Touches:
Black SofTex-trimmed sport seats with red stitching
TRD-embroidered headrests
Red seatbelts
Leather-wrapped steering wheel with red contrast stitching
TRD shift knob
Aluminum sport pedals
These changes infuse the cabin with a subtle sense of occasion, reinforcing the car’s performance DNA. The seating position is supportive for spirited driving, yet comfortable enough for long commutes or road trips.
In terms of space, the TRD Camry still seats five comfortably. However, due to chassis reinforcements and the trunk-mounted rear strut brace, trunk capacity is slightly reduced compared to non-TRD Camry models. It's still practical, but cargo space drops to about 14.1 cubic feet.
Technology and Infotainment
Despite its sportier mission, the TRD doesn’t skimp on tech. Standard features include:
7-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility
Wi-Fi hotspot capability
Six-speaker sound system
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Smart key with push-button start
While the infotainment screen is slightly smaller than in some competitors (and even other Camry trims with an available 9-inch screen), it’s responsive and easy to use. The TRD trim omits some higher-end tech like navigation, JBL audio, and a larger screen to keep weight and cost down.
Safety Features
Toyota remains committed to safety across its lineup, and the TRD is no exception. It comes standard with the Toyota Safety Sense™ P (TSS-P) suite, which includes:
Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
Automatic High Beams
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
These systems help protect drivers and passengers while keeping the TRD compliant with Toyota’s high safety standards. It has earned top scores in crash testing from the NHTSA (5 stars) and the IIHS, making it as safe as it is sporty.
Pricing and Value
The Camry TRD V6 is positioned as a performance bargain in the midsize segment. Pricing generally starts around $33,000 – $34,000 (depending on dealer fees and regional variations), which makes it significantly less expensive than performance-focused competitors like the Kia K5 GT, Honda Accord 2.0T, or entry-level trims of luxury sports sedans like the BMW 3 Series or Audi A4.
Given its performance upgrades, visual enhancements, and standard safety and tech features, the TRD trim offers excellent value for driving enthusiasts who still need practicality.
Competitors and Comparisons
Here’s how the Camry TRD stacks up against some of its key rivals:
Kia K5 GT
Turbocharged 2.5L inline-4 with 290 hp
AWD available
Slightly more tech features
Sportier feel but less naturally aspirated engine character
Honda Accord Sport 2.0T (discontinued as of 2023)
Smooth 2.0L turbo engine with 252 hp
Excellent handling dynamics
Better tech integration, less visual flair
Nissan Altima SR VC-Turbo
248 hp turbo engine
Great fuel economy
Less thrilling drive and softer ride
Hyundai Sonata N Line
290 hp turbo engine
Sleek styling and lots of tech
FWD only; slightly softer suspension than TRD
While these alternatives bring their own merits, none offer the combination of V6 power, Toyota reliability, and track-tuned hardware that the Camry TRD does at this price.
Fuel Economy
Despite its powerful engine, the Camry TRD V6 remains relatively fuel-efficient:
EPA-estimated 22 mpg city / 31 mpg highway / 25 mpg combined
These figures are slightly lower than four-cylinder competitors, but respectable for a V6-powered performance sedan. The Camry TRD does not require premium fuel, which helps keep running costs down.
Who Is the Camry TRD V6 For?
This model is ideal for buyers who:
Want a fun-to-drive sedan but don’t want to compromise on comfort
Appreciate Toyota’s reputation for quality
Prefer a naturally aspirated V6 engine over turbocharged 4-cylinders
Enjoy sporty styling but don’t need track-level performance
Want something different from the typical Camry or midsize sedan
It may not satisfy hardcore enthusiasts seeking RWD dynamics, but for the average driver wanting a practical car with some attitude, the Camry TRD delivers.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros:
Powerful, smooth V6 engine
Sport-tuned suspension adds driving enjoyment
Bold, aggressive styling stands out
Excellent reliability and resale value
Solid safety features
Cons:
FWD layout limits high-performance potential
Smaller trunk due to chassis bracing
No optional all-wheel drive
Fewer luxury or tech options than some rivals
Conclusion: A Sport Sedan with Real-World Practical
The Toyota Camry TRD V6 is a rare breed — a midsize sedan that successfully blends Toyota’s hallmark reliability with a performance edge and striking design. It’s not the fastest car in the segment, nor the most luxurious, but it’s a well-rounded package for drivers who crave a spirited drive without sacrificing the day-to-day practicality.