Entering the realm of performance-oriented family sedans, the 2021 Toyota Camry Trd emerges as a compelling contender, injecting a dose of sportiness into the renowned Camry lineup. Skepticism might initially arise – a performance Camry? However, Toyota’s recent strides in crafting engaging vehicles, exemplified by models like the Supra, pave the way for a TRD variant that warrants serious consideration. The current-generation Camry itself boasts an undeniably aggressive aesthetic, making it a fitting canvas for the TRD treatment.
Elevated Aesthetics: The TRD Styling Package
To visually distinguish the 2021 Toyota Camry TRD and amplify its sporty persona, Toyota’s design team meticulously crafted a dedicated body kit. This enhancement package encompasses a black front grille with a distinctive mesh insert, a prominent front splitter, aerodynamic side skirts, a rear trunk wing, and a rear diffuser. These elements collectively contribute to a more assertive and dynamic stance. For those seeking unequivocal TRD identification, strategically placed red TRD badges leave no room for doubt about this Camry’s enhanced pedigree. Completing the exterior transformation are striking 19-inch matte-black wheels, adding a final touch of aggression to the overall design.
The 2021 Toyota Camry TRD undeniably exudes a sense of style and attitude that sets it apart from its more conventional siblings. The front fascia commands attention with its aggressive lines, while the black TRD body accents create a visually appealing contrast against lighter paint finishes, such as the Ice Edge of the test vehicle. The availability of a Midnight Black roof further accentuates the two-tone aesthetic, delivering an impactful and modern appearance.
Interior Sportiness and Comfort
Stepping inside the 2021 Toyota Camry TRD, you are greeted by TRD-exclusive interior appointments that reinforce the sporty theme. Black SofTex-trimmed seats, adorned with red contrast stitching, offer a blend of comfort and visual flair. A leather-wrapped steering wheel, also featuring red stitching, provides a tactile and sporty feel for the driver. Further TRD enhancements include a unique shift knob, TRD-specific gauges, vibrant red seatbelts, TRD floor mats, and aluminum pedals. While these TRD touches elevate the cabin ambiance, the front seats could benefit from more pronounced side bolsters. Although offering some lateral support, additional bolstering would be welcomed to better secure occupants during spirited driving.
In terms of overall interior quality, the 2021 Toyota Camry TRD aligns with the standards of the midsize sedan segment. Material quality is commendable, with frequently touched surfaces featuring soft-touch materials, while harder plastics exhibit a pleasing finish. Both front and rear occupants enjoy generous passenger space, and numerous storage compartments cater to everyday practicality. However, rear passengers might find the absence of dedicated climate vents, a center armrest, or power outlets to be a minor drawback. The trunk capacity measures a substantial 15.1 cubic feet, providing ample cargo room. However, the fixed rear seatbacks, due to a V-brace installed for enhanced body rigidity, limit the ability to transport longer items.
Technology and Connectivity Updates
Mirroring the broader 2021 Camry lineup, the 2021 Toyota Camry TRD receives an updated infotainment system featuring a new floating touchscreen display. This repositioned screen brings controls slightly closer to occupants and effectively minimizes glare on the 7-inch screen. Physical buttons and knobs flanking the display provide quick access to essential menus and audio adjustments, complementing the user-friendly touchscreen interface. However, the system exhibits a slight delay when transitioning between menus, which can be noticeable at times.
Standard infotainment features encompass a six-speaker audio system, satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and seamless integration with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For audiophiles seeking a more immersive listening experience in their 2021 Toyota Camry TRD, an optional nine-speaker JBL audio system is available for an additional cost.
On the safety front, the 2021 Toyota Camry TRD enhances its safety suite with standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert for the 2021 model year. Furthermore, it incorporates the upgraded Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 Plus package. This advanced safety suite enhances forward-collision warning capabilities to detect bicyclists and improves pedestrian detection, particularly in low-light conditions. Adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and road sign assist are also integral components of this comprehensive safety system.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Powering the 2021 Toyota Camry TRD is a refined 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering a robust 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. In a landscape where competitors are increasingly favoring turbocharged four-cylinder engines, Toyota’s commitment to a V6 in the TRD variant is commendable, offering smooth and linear power delivery. Throttle response is immediate, and low-end torque is adequate, although not as forceful as some turbocharged rivals. However, from the midrange to its 6,800rpm redline, the V6 exhibits impressive pulling power and a pleasing engine note, amplified by the TRD cat-back exhaust system, emitting a surprisingly engaging growl.
An eight-speed automatic transmission seamlessly channels power to the front wheels of the 2021 Toyota Camry TRD. Gear shifts are consistently well-timed and responsive, with prompt downshifts when needed for acceleration. Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters offer a degree of manual control, exhibiting commendable responsiveness for downshifts. However, upshift responsiveness can be somewhat inconsistent, varying between quick and occasionally hesitant.
Fuel economy for the 2021 Toyota Camry TRD is EPA-rated at 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. In mixed driving conditions during testing, a fuel economy of 25 mpg was observed, aligning with the EPA’s combined rating.
Significant enhancements in the 2021 Toyota Camry TRD lie within its chassis and handling dynamics. Increased torsional rigidity is achieved through thicker underbody bracing and a rear seat V-brace. A suspension overhaul incorporates distinct shock absorbers, stiffer springs, a 0.5-inch lower ride height, and larger anti-roll bars. These upgrades, combined with 19-inch Michelin Primacy MXM4 all-season tires, culminate in noticeably improved handling capabilities.
Turn-in response is sharper, with minimal body roll, allowing the 2021 Toyota Camry TRD to corner with greater confidence than previous Camry iterations. Grip levels are sufficient for enjoyable driving, though pushing the car aggressively will induce predictable understeer. The trade-off for the firmer chassis is a slightly less compliant ride compared to standard Camrys, with bumps being more noticeable, but not harsh or uncomfortable. The development team has achieved a commendable balance between performance and ride comfort in the 2021 Toyota Camry TRD.
Braking performance in the 2021 Toyota Camry TRD is also enhanced. The front brakes are upgraded to two-piston calipers, replacing the single-piston units in non-TRD Camrys, and clamping onto larger 12.9-inch rotors. Braking power is strong, effectively shedding speed, although improved pedal feel with more feedback would be desirable. Steering is direct and adequately weighted, despite a minor dead spot at the center.
Ideal Configuration and Pricing
The 2021 Toyota Camry TRD starts at a base price of $33,285, including destination charges. For a personalized configuration, opting for the two-tone Ice Edge paint with a Midnight Black Metallic roof enhances the visual appeal for a reasonable upcharge. Upgrading to the JBL audio system is a worthwhile investment for enhanced sound quality. Adding rear USB ports for passenger convenience is also a practical and inexpensive addition. These selected options elevate the total price slightly, but contribute to a more enjoyable and feature-rich 2021 Toyota Camry TRD.
Verdict: A More Engaging Camry Experience
Compared to the standard Camry, the 2021 Toyota Camry TRD undeniably presents a more refined and engaging driving experience. The TRD body kit effectively elevates the sedan’s visual appeal without being overly aggressive, while the enhanced exhaust note and improved handling characteristics deliver a genuinely more enjoyable drive. While there’s room for further refinement in areas like steering and brake pedal feel, the 2021 Toyota Camry TRD stands as a pleasant surprise, injecting a dose of sporty character into the practical and dependable Camry formula.
