For decades, the Camry TRD 2024 has epitomized reliability, practicality, and comfort in the midsize sedan market. Known for its bulletproof dependability and value, it’s long been the go-to vehicle for families, commuters, and fleet buyers alike. But in recent years, Toyota has taken a bolder approach, seeking to add a bit more edge to the Camry’s traditionally conservative image. Enter the Toyota Camry TRD V6—a midsize sedan that blends the dependability of the Camry nameplate with the heart and handling of a sports car.
TRD, short for Toyota Racing Development, is Toyota’s performance division. Traditionally, TRD upgrades have been seen on off-road-capable vehicles like the Tacoma and 4Runner. However, the TRD badge has also found its way into the brand’s road cars, injecting them with enhanced performance, sharper styling, and a more visceral driving experience. The Camry TRD V6 is perhaps the most radical example of this trend—a family sedan with a high-revving V6 engine, sport-tuned suspension, and aggressive aesthetics.
This article delves deep into the Toyota Camry TRD V6, examining what sets it apart from the rest of the Camry lineup, who it’s for, and how it stacks up against rivals in the segment.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Camry TRD lies Toyota’s venerable 3.5-liter V6 engine, a naturally aspirated powerhouse that produces 301 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which sends power to the front wheels. While some might lament the lack of all-wheel drive (available on four-cylinder Camry trims), the V6’s responsiveness more than compensates.
The TRD-tuned Camry accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 5.8 seconds, putting it in the same performance ballpark as entry-level luxury sports sedans. The V6 engine delivers a broad powerband with strong midrange torque and a surprisingly satisfying exhaust note, thanks to the TRD’s unique cat-back dual exhaust system.
More importantly, Toyota’s engineers didn’t just throw a powerful engine into the Camry and call it a day. The Camry TRD gets a suite of performance upgrades, including:
TRD-tuned shocks and springs that lower the ride height by 0.6 inches
Thicker underbody bracing for added structural rigidity
Larger front brakes with dual-piston calipers
19-inch matte black alloy wheels wrapped in summer performance tires
These modifications transform the Camry’s character, delivering more agile handling, better cornering grip, and improved body control. While it’s not a track car by any stretch, it’s far more engaging to drive than a typical midsize sedan.
Exterior Design
The Camry TRD isn’t just about performance—it looks the part too. Visually, it stands out from the rest of the Camry lineup with an aggressive and sporty design language. Key exterior elements include:
A bold black front grille with a mesh insert
A gloss-black rear spoiler
TRD-specific front splitter, side skirts, and rear diffuser
Red-painted TRD brake calipers
Gloss black accents around the windows and mirrors
Red TRD badging
The overall result is a Camry that exudes confidence and speed, especially in colors like Supersonic Red, Ice Edge, and Celestial Silver. The styling walks a fine line between sporty and tasteful, avoiding the boy-racer vibe that can plague other “sporty” sedans.
Despite its aggressive body kit, the Camry TRD retains its four-door practicality, maintaining the same dimensions and interior space as the standard Camry.
Interior Features and Design
Inside, the Camry TRD offers a cabin that mixes everyday usability with subtle performance cues. The interior is based on the SE/XSE trim level, meaning it lacks some of the high-end finishes found in the XLE or XSE V6 models. However, Toyota has included enough unique touches to make the TRD experience feel special.
Highlights include:
TRD-embroidered sport seats with red contrast stitching
Red seatbelts that add a splash of sportiness
A leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters
Aluminum sport pedals
Unique TRD floor mats and badging
The seats are upholstered in a combination of SofTex leatherette and fabric, providing good support for spirited driving without sacrificing comfort. The rear seat and trunk space are unchanged from the regular Camry, meaning the TRD retains all the practicality you’d expect from a midsize sedan.
The tech suite includes a 7- or 9-inch touchscreen (depending on model year), Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and a 6-speaker audio system. While not the most luxurious or high-tech interior in the segment, it strikes a good balance between usability and style.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Toyota has not compromised on safety with the Camry TRD. Like all Camry trims, it comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which includes a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features:
Pre-Collision System with pedestrian detection
Lane Departure Alert with steering assist
Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
Lane Tracing Assist
Automatic High Beams
Road Sign Assist
In addition, the Camry TRD includes ten airbags, a rearview camera, and the Star Safety System, which integrates advanced braking and traction technologies.
The Camry has consistently received top safety ratings, including IIHS Top Safety Pick+ status and 5-star ratings from the NHTSA, making it one of the safest performance-oriented sedans you can buy.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
Despite its powerful V6 engine, the Camry TRD manages respectable fuel economy numbers. The EPA estimates are:
22 mpg city
31 mpg highway
25 mpg combined
These numbers are impressive for a vehicle with over 300 horsepower and no electrification. The TRD trim does not offer a hybrid variant, unlike other Camry trims, but it remains relatively efficient thanks to Toyota’s engineering focus on optimizing combustion and aerodynamics.
Pricing and Value
One of the most appealing aspects of the Camry TRD is its price-to-performance ratio. As of the 2025 model year, the Camry TRD V6 starts at approximately $34,000 USD, making it one of the most affordable ways to get into a sporty V6-powered sedan.
While it does sacrifice some of the luxury features found on the Camry XLE or Avalon, the TRD trim offers incredible value for drivers looking for performance without the premium price tag. You’re getting a fully warrantied, well-equipped, aggressively styled sedan with genuine sporting credentials—all for less than the price of many compact crossovers.
Competitors and Market Position
The Camry TRD occupies a somewhat unique space in the current automotive market. There are few front-wheel-drive, V6-powered sedans that offer similar performance and price. However, it does face indirect competition from several models:
Honda Accord Sport Hybrid
The Accord doesn’t offer a V6 anymore, but its hybrid models provide impressive torque and great fuel economy. Still, it lacks the visceral performance and exhaust note of the Camry TRD.
Kia K5 GT
With a 2.5L turbocharged engine making 290 hp and AWD available, the K5 GT is a compelling alternative. It's priced similarly but doesn’t offer the naturally aspirated smoothness of the Toyota V6.
Dodge Charger SXT/GT
The base V6 Charger offers rear-wheel drive and a larger footprint but is heavier and less refined than the Camry TRD. However, some may prefer its American muscle car identity.
Subaru WRX
Though smaller and more purpose-built as a sport sedan, the WRX has AWD and a manual transmission option. However, it lacks the Camry's daily drivability and comfort.
In many ways, the Camry TRD exists in a class of its own—offering a rare blend of reliability, daily usability, and sporting appeal.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Powerful and smooth 3.5L V6 engine
Excellent balance of performance and everyday comfort
Aggressive and attractive TRD-specific styling
Strong safety and reliability record
Priced competitively
Cons
No manual transmission or AWD option
Less luxurious than Camry XLE or XSE trims
Sport-tuned suspension can be firm over rough roads
No hybrid or fuel-saving option
Limited customization options
Who Should Buy the Camry TRD V6?
The Camry TRD is ideal for drivers who want more excitement from their daily commute, but don’t want to sacrifice reliability, safety, or affordability. It’s not a track car or a raw sports sedan, but it fills a unique niche for those who want sporty performance in a practical package.
It’s also a compelling option for younger buyers who grew up admiring performance cars but now need to prioritize family and budget. With the Camry TRD, you don’t have to leave the thrill behind.
Conclusion
The Toyota Camry TRD V6 is a bold statement in an era dominated by crossovers and downsized engines. It proves that a family sedan can still be fun, exciting, and engaging—without breaking the bank. By combining Toyota’s legendary reliability with a sportier edge, the Camry TRD stands out as one of the most well-rounded vehicles in the midsize segment.
It might not be the fastest or most luxurious option out there, but it nails the formula of everyday livability with a dash of adrenaline. For those looking to have their cake and eat it too, the Camry TRD V6 might just be the perfect recipe.