For decades, the Toyota Camry has been a cornerstone of the midsize sedan segment, long praised for its reliability, comfort, and value. It's the go-to choice for families, commuters, and anyone looking for a no-nonsense car that simply works. But Toyota took a bold step with the Camry TRD 2024, injecting an unexpected dose of performance, style, and sport-tuned handling into its otherwise conservative lineup.
If the phrase "Camry with attitude" seems unusual, it’s because the Camry TRD marks a serious shift in the brand's philosophy. Designed by Toyota Racing Development (TRD), this version aims to change how people perceive the Camry — not just as a dependable daily driver, but as a true enthusiast's sedan. Let's explore what makes the Toyota Camry TRD V6 such a standout offering in the midsize sedan market.
1. Performance: Where the Camry TRD Shines
At the heart of the Camry TRD is a 3.5-liter V6 engine, naturally aspirated and full of character. It produces 301 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful options in the midsize sedan segment.
Engine and Transmission
Engine: 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 with D-4S Dual Injection
Power Output: 301 hp @ 6,600 rpm
Torque: 267 lb-ft @ 4,700 rpm
Transmission: 8-speed automatic with paddle shifters
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
This engine setup provides strong acceleration and highway passing power. In fact, the Camry TRD V6 can hit 0–60 mph in about 5.8 seconds, which is quite brisk for a family sedan. The 8-speed automatic transmission is quick to respond, and the paddle shifters offer a more engaging driving experience, especially on winding roads or during spirited drives.
Sport-Tuned Suspension
What separates the TRD from other Camry trims is its track-tuned suspension. TRD engineers upgraded the shocks, springs, and stabilizer bars to improve responsiveness and reduce body roll. The TRD sits 0.6 inches lower than other Camry trims, which lowers the center of gravity and improves cornering.
Paired with larger 12.9-inch front brake rotors and dual-piston calipers, the braking performance is confident and controlled. The stiffer chassis and improved handling make the TRD feel agile — even playful — which is something few people would expect from a Camry.
2. Exterior Styling: Aggression Meets Elegance
One of the first things you'll notice about the Camry TRD is that it looks different — and intentionally so. Toyota gave it an exclusive, athletic aesthetic that immediately distinguishes it from its more conservative siblings.
Key Exterior Features:
TRD-specific gloss black front grille with sport mesh insert
Red brake calipers and 19-inch matte-black TRD alloy wheels
Aggressive front splitter, side aero skirts, rear diffuser, and rear spoiler
Dual exhaust with polished stainless-steel tips
TRD badging on the trunk and other exterior accents
The result is a Camry that looks as though it belongs on a racetrack, not just in a suburban driveway. The matte black wheels contrast beautifully against the available colors like Supersonic Red and Wind Chill Pearl, while the black roof (on certain color combos) enhances the sporty, coupe-like profile.
3. Interior Design: Function Over Flash
Step inside the Camry TRD, and you’ll find an interior that reflects both its performance intentions and Toyota’s practical philosophy. While it doesn't rival luxury sedans in terms of plushness or materials, the TRD trim does offer driver-focused enhancements and sporty accents.
Interior Highlights:
TRD-exclusive sport front seats with red stitching and embroidered headrests
Red seat belts for a performance-inspired touch
Aluminum sport pedals
Leather-wrapped steering wheel with red contrast stitching
TRD floor mats
Black SofTex® upholstery with fabric inserts for added grip
The interior is well-organized and relatively minimalist, with logical button placement and user-friendly controls. It lacks some of the upscale materials you might find in competitors like the Honda Accord Touring or Mazda6 Signature, but it makes up for that with a sense of purpose and clarity. This is a car made for driving, not just commuting.
4. Technology and Connectivity
Toyota ensures that even its sportiest Camry trim doesn’t lack in tech. The infotainment system is straightforward and integrates well with smartphones and modern digital needs.
Infotainment and Tech Features:
7-inch touchscreen (older models); newer years upgraded to 9-inch
Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and Amazon Alexa® compatibility
Bluetooth® streaming audio and hands-free phone capability
USB media and charging ports
Available JBL® premium sound system (though not standard in TRD)
Smart Key System with push-button start
While the TRD trim doesn’t come loaded with luxury tech (like ventilated seats or built-in navigation), it offers all the essentials most buyers want in a modern daily driver. The infotainment interface is functional, though it’s not the most cutting-edge in the segment.
5. Safety: TRD Meets Toyota’s Safety DNA
Despite its performance persona, the Camry TRD is still a Toyota at heart, which means it prioritizes safety. It includes the Toyota Safety Sense™ P (TSS-P) suite of advanced driver assistance features, designed to prevent accidents before they happen.
Safety Features:
Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
Automatic High Beams
Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Ten airbags and Star Safety System™
It’s also worth noting that the Camry consistently receives Top Safety Pick+ ratings from the IIHS and earns 5-star overall crash test ratings from the NHTSA. So, even if you're enjoying the TRD's sportier side, you’re still wrapped in one of the safest sedans on the road.
6. Driving Experience: Balanced and Engaging
On the road, the Camry TRD feels significantly different from other Camry trims. The lowered ride height and firmer suspension give it a planted feel, while the steering — although still electric — feels more communicative than the standard setup.
Driving Impressions:
In the city: The Camry TRD remains composed, if a bit firm over rough pavement. It’s perfectly livable for daily commuting.
On the highway: The V6’s power makes merging and passing a breeze. Cabin noise is well-managed despite the sport exhaust.
On back roads: This is where the TRD comes alive. It's not a BMW M340i, but it grips well, brakes confidently, and rewards enthusiastic driving.
The ride can be stiffer than a traditional Camry — which makes sense given its mission — but it's not punishing. Toyota managed to find a happy medium between sporty and sensible.
7. Camry TRD vs Competitors
To understand the Camry TRD’s appeal, it helps to compare it to other performance-minded sedans in the segment.
Honda Accord Sport 2.0T
Power: 252 hp (turbo I4)
Transmission: 10-speed auto
Pros: Excellent ride, high-quality interior
Cons: Less power, front-drive dynamics not as sporty as TRD
Kia K5 GT
Power: 290 hp (2.5L turbo I4)
Pros: Striking looks, fast acceleration
Cons: FWD torque steer, less refined suspension tuning
Nissan Altima SR VC-Turbo
Power: 248 hp (VC-Turbo engine)
Pros: Unique engine tech, good fuel economy
Cons: Less engaging chassis, CVT transmission
Camry TRD Summary
Pros: Naturally aspirated V6, unique TRD tuning, aggressive styling, strong reliability
Cons: No AWD option, less luxurious than some rivals
8. Fuel Economy and Cost of Ownership
Despite the V6’s power, the Camry TRD is surprisingly efficient for what it offers.
EPA Fuel Ratings:
City: 22 mpg
Highway: 31 mpg
Combined: 25 mpg
That’s quite respectable for a car with over 300 horsepower. Toyota’s legendary reliability means the Camry TRD should also be affordable to maintain over the long term. Plus, Toyota’s warranty coverage and resale value are among the best in the industry.
9. Pricing and Value
The Camry TRD is positioned between the XSE and XLE V6 trims, but it delivers a completely different driving experience. Prices typically start around **$34,000 to $35,000** for the TRD trim, which is competitive for the performance and features it offers.