Sport SofTex-trimmed front seats of the 2022 Toyota Camry TRD with red accents and TRD logo on the headrest.
Sport SofTex-trimmed front seats of the 2022 Toyota Camry TRD with red accents and TRD logo on the headrest.

2022 Toyota Camry TRD: Unleashing Sporty Performance in a Family Sedan

The 2022 Toyota Camry Trd stands out as a unique offering in the mainstream sedan market. Introduced in 2020, the Camry TRD exemplifies Toyota’s commitment to injecting sportiness into their reliable Camry lineup. Bearing the TRD badge, which signifies Toyota Racing Development, this model delivers a bolder aesthetic and a more dynamic driving experience compared to the standard Camry.

Striking Exterior Design

The 2022 Camry TRD immediately commands attention with its aggressive and sporty exterior. The distinctive TRD styling starts with the option of the striking, model-exclusive Calvary Blue color for 2022, further enhanced by an available cost Metallic Black Roof and rear spoiler combination. The front fascia features a gloss black TRD grille with a unique sport mesh insert, flanked by sharp bi-LED headlights and LED daytime running lights, contributing to its assertive presence.

Adding to its athletic stance are the 19-inch TRD black matte wheels, complete with TRD center logos and wrapped in summer tires, emphasizing its performance intentions. The sporty theme is further accentuated by red brake calipers, color-keyed side rocker panels, and an aero-kit detailed with red pinstriping. The rear view is just as compelling, featuring a rear spoiler, LED combination tail lights, TRD badging, and a TRD cat-back dual exhaust system that emits a sporty exhaust note, hinting at the power within.

Potent Powertrain

Under the hood, the 2022 Camry TRD is equipped with the more powerful engine option in the Camry lineup: a 3.5-liter V6 engine. This robust powerplant generates 301 horsepower and 267 lb.-ft. of torque, ensuring brisk acceleration and ample power for various driving situations. The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission that includes paddle shifters for those seeking a more engaged driving experience. While the Camry TRD remains front-wheel drive, the V6 engine provides a significant performance boost, particularly noticeable in Sport mode, enhancing throttle response and shift points for a more spirited drive.

Enhanced Ride and Handling

The “TRD” designation truly comes to life in the driving dynamics of the 2022 Camry TRD. Toyota Racing Development engineers have meticulously tuned the chassis, shock absorbers, and front and rear suspension specifically for track-inspired performance. These modifications result in noticeably improved handling and a more engaging driving experience compared to other Camry models. Aerodynamic enhancements and upgraded larger 12.9-inch front brakes with dual-piston calipers further contribute to its sporty character. The culmination of these TRD enhancements makes the 2022 Camry TRD the most agile and enjoyable Camry to drive, offering a confident and controlled feel. While the ride is tuned for performance, it maintains a level of smoothness suitable for everyday driving, although road noise might be slightly more pronounced compared to comfort-focused trims.

Sporty and Functional Interior

The interior of the Camry TRD echoes its sporty exterior, featuring a black cabin theme punctuated by striking red accents and stitching. The comfortable Sport SofTex-trimmed front seats are a highlight, boasting bold red accent trim and embroidered red TRD logos on the headrests. Red seatbelts further amplify the sporty ambiance. Red stitching is tastefully applied throughout the cabin, adorning the dash, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and gear shift knob.

Sport SofTex-trimmed front seats of the 2022 Toyota Camry TRD with red accents and TRD logo on the headrest.Sport SofTex-trimmed front seats of the 2022 Toyota Camry TRD with red accents and TRD logo on the headrest.

The driver benefits from an 8-way power-adjustable seat with lumbar support. However, in keeping with its positioning as a performance-focused trim rather than a luxury one, the passenger seat is manually adjusted, and the 2022 TRD model is uniquely the only Camry trim without dual-zone climate control. The cabin utilizes a mix of soft-touch materials and plastics, complemented by patterned metal trim and silver door handles. TRD badging on the front seat headrests and red-lined black floor mats further reinforce the model’s identity. The center console is functionally designed, housing the leather-wrapped gear shift knob, cup holders, drive mode selectors, auto hold, and an electronic parking brake.

Upgraded Technology Features

The 2022 Camry TRD receives notable upgrades in its technology offerings. The infotainment system is centered around a responsive 9-inch touchscreen, a step up from the standard 7-inch screen found in lower trims. Audiophiles will appreciate the inclusion of a JBL 9-speaker sound system, providing enhanced audio quality compared to the standard 6-speaker setup. The Camry’s multimedia system is equipped with a backup camera and offers seamless smartphone integration via Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa, along with Bluetooth connectivity. Voice command functionality is also included and performs effectively. The TRD model is equipped with two USB ports for device charging and connectivity.

Interior trim of the 2022 Toyota Camry TRD, showcasing the 9-inch touchscreen display and JBL speaker system.Interior trim of the 2022 Toyota Camry TRD, showcasing the 9-inch touchscreen display and JBL speaker system.

While the technology suite is well-rounded, the driver’s display remains a 4.2-inch TFT screen, whereas some other Camry trims offer a larger 7-inch TFT display. Navigation and wireless charging are not available on the TRD model, which some buyers might miss.

4.2-inch TFT display in the instrument cluster of the 2022 Toyota Camry TRD.4.2-inch TFT display in the instrument cluster of the 2022 Toyota Camry TRD.

Safety and Value

The 2022 Camry TRD prioritizes safety with standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features. This includes pre-collision with pedestrian detection, automatic high beams, full-speed dynamic radar cruise control, road sign assist, and lane departure alert with steering assist. Compared to the earlier 2020 TRD model, the 2022 version adds Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert for enhanced awareness. However, Rear Cross Traffic Braking is not available on the TRD trim.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD represents a compelling value proposition, blending sporty styling and enhanced performance with Toyota’s renowned reliability. While the price has seen a slight increase compared to previous model years due to added features like driver assistance technologies, a larger multimedia screen, and an upgraded sound system, the as-tested price of $35,470 for this well-equipped model remains competitive within the sports sedan segment. Some desired features, such as heated seats, a larger TFT screen, and wireless charging, are not available on the TRD, but the core sporty character and performance enhancements make the 2022 Toyota Camry TRD a unique and appealing choice for those seeking a more exciting family sedan.

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