The Toyota Camry has long been associated with dependability, practicality, and comfort. For decades, it has served as a go-to midsize sedan for families, commuters, and anyone seeking a reliable vehicle with a smooth ride. However, in recent years, Toyota has infused the Camry with a bolder attitude, especially with the introduction of the Camry TRD 2024 —a performance-oriented variant that aims to break the stereotype of the "boring sedan." With its aggressive styling, enhanced handling, and powerful engine, the 2025 Toyota Camry TRD V6 carves out a unique niche in the midsize sedan segment.
1. Introduction to the Toyota Camry TRD V6
The TRD (Toyota Racing Development) badge is typically reserved for performance-oriented versions of Toyota’s lineup, from trucks to sports cars. Applying that badge to the Camry signals a bold move: transforming a commuter car into something that genuinely excites driving enthusiasts.
Introduced in 2020, the Camry TRD quickly gained attention for its unexpected blend of sporty aesthetics, dynamic handling, and the tried-and-true reliability of the Camry platform. The heart of the TRD Camry is its naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine, which delivers a lively driving experience. Unlike other Camry variants, which may emphasize fuel economy or luxury, the TRD version is tuned to provide a more engaging drive.
2. Engine and Performance
At the center of the TRD Camry is Toyota’s powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine, which produces 301 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth yet responsive shifts. Power is sent exclusively to the front wheels—there’s no all-wheel-drive option in the TRD trim, though other Camry trims offer it.
Performance figures are respectable for a midsize sedan. The Camry TRD can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 5.8 seconds, making it one of the quickest non-luxury sedans in its class. The exhaust note is another distinguishing feature, tuned to emit a throatier growl than the standard Camry. A cat-back dual exhaust system enhances both performance and sound.
To match the power, Toyota stiffened the suspension and chassis. The Camry TRD sits 0.6 inches lower than the standard model, featuring stiffer coil springs, larger sway bars, and TRD-specific shock absorbers. These modifications improve cornering capabilities and reduce body roll, making the car feel tighter and more agile in the corners.
3. Exterior Design
Visually, the Camry TRD stands out from the rest of the Camry lineup. It carries aggressive bodywork that suggests speed and performance. The most noticeable features include:
Black front grille with sport mesh insert
Gloss black aerodynamic body kit, including side skirts and a front splitter
Red TRD badges and pinstriping
19-inch black TRD alloy wheels
Red-painted brake calipers
A distinctive rear spoiler
Cat-back dual exhaust with polished stainless-steel tips
The car looks leaner, more aggressive, and unmistakably sportier than its siblings. It communicates its performance potential without being overly flashy.
4. Interior Features
Inside, the TRD Camry is equipped with a sporty yet familiar interior. While it doesn't rival a Lexus in terms of luxury, it does reflect thoughtful attention to sportiness and comfort. Highlights include:
TRD-branded SofTex®-trimmed sport seats with red accents and contrast stitching
Red seat belts
Aluminum sport pedals
Leather-wrapped steering wheel with red stitching
TRD shift knob
8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility
The cabin design doesn’t drastically depart from the standard Camry, but the red accents and TRD branding give it a performance-oriented vibe. It seats five comfortably, with ample rear-seat legroom and decent cargo space thanks to the 15.1-cubic-foot trunk. Though the rear seats don’t fold down due to structural bracing, most users find the trunk spacious enough for daily needs and weekend getaways.
5. Technology and Safety
Even with its performance leanings, the Camry TRD doesn't skimp on safety or tech. It comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which includes:
Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
Lane Tracing Assist
Automatic High Beams
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
Road Sign Assist
Other standard tech features include:
Keyless entry with push-button start
Wi-Fi hotspot capability
Six-speaker sound system
Backup camera
Though it doesn't offer the premium features of the XLE or XSE trims—like panoramic sunroofs or heated/ventilated seats—the TRD balances performance and functionality very well.
6. Driving Experience
Behind the wheel, the Camry TRD V6 feels tight and responsive. The suspension enhancements make it feel more planted in corners, and the steering is more direct than in other Camry trims. The car maintains composure even when pushed hard, with a solid chassis and minimal body roll.
The ride is firmer than that of the standard Camry, but not punishing. It strikes a good balance between daily drivability and sporty engagement. The 8-speed automatic transmission is generally smooth, though some enthusiasts might wish for paddle shifters or a manual option.
The V6 powertrain provides plenty of passing power on the highway, and the throttle response is crisp. While it doesn’t quite match the finesse of a BMW 3 Series or the sheer speed of a Kia Stinger GT, it holds its own and adds a dose of fun to a historically conservative nameplate.
7. Fuel Economy
For a performance-focused model, the Camry TRD V6 offers decent fuel economy. According to EPA estimates:
22 MPG city
31 MPG highway
25 MPG combined
These numbers are respectable given the performance and displacement of the engine. It’s more efficient than similarly powered competitors like the Nissan Maxima or the V6-powered Dodge Charger.
8. Pricing and Value
As of the 2025 model year, the Toyota Camry TRD V6 starts at approximately $34,000, making it competitively priced for a sporty midsize sedan. It undercuts many performance rivals and offers a unique proposition: a sporty daily driver backed by Toyota’s reputation for reliability and low cost of ownership.
It offers better performance than the Camry XSE V6, despite sharing the same engine, due to its tuned suspension and sportier features. However, it sacrifices some creature comforts—like dual-zone climate control, heated seats, or a premium sound system—to keep costs down and performance up.
9. Competitors
In its niche, the Camry TRD competes with:
Nissan Maxima SR – Also V6-powered with sportier tuning, though its days are numbered as the Maxima is being phased out.
Kia K5 GT – Offers a turbocharged 2.5L engine with 290 hp and all-wheel drive, but lacks the TRD’s naturally aspirated power delivery and unique styling.
Honda Accord Sport Hybrid – While not a direct performance match, it appeals to the same buyers looking for a sportier sedan feel with better fuel economy.
Dodge Charger SXT/GT – Rear-wheel-drive and available with V6, though heavier and more muscle-oriented.
What sets the Camry TRD apart is its balance. It doesn’t aim to be the most powerful or luxurious, but it’s arguably the most reliable and affordable performance sedan in the segment.
10. Pros and Cons
Pros:
Powerful and smooth V6 engine
Aggressive, sporty styling
Improved handling and suspension tuning
Solid safety suite with Toyota Safety Sense
Toyota reliability and resale value
Cons:
No all-wheel-drive option
Rear seats don’t fold down
Lacks some luxury features (heated seats, premium audio)
Front-wheel drive limits its performance ceiling compared to RWD rivals
11. Verdict: Who Should Buy the Camry TRD V6?
The Toyota Camry TRD V6 is ideal for drivers who want something more exciting than the average midsize sedan but don’t want to compromise too much on practicality, reliability, or cost. It’s not a full-blown sports car, but it adds a much-needed dose of personality to the Camry nameplate.
It's perfect for:
Young professionals looking for a sporty daily driver
Long-time Toyota buyers seeking more excitement
Drivers who want performance without the higher maintenance of European rivals
On the other hand, buyers who prioritize comfort, luxury, or winter capability (AWD) might want to look at the XLE AWD or consider a different vehicle altogether.
12. Conclusion
The Toyota Camry TRD V6 is more than just a styling package—it’s a thoughtfully engineered sports sedan that brings excitement to a segment often criticized for being dull. By pairing a potent V6 engine with performance-tuned suspension and aggressive looks, Toyota has created a version of the Camry that appeals to enthusiasts and practical drivers alike.