Toyota, known for its reliability and sensible designs, occasionally throws a curveball, reminding us they can also have a bit of fun. Think of a Prius rally car or a Yaris with unexpected power. In this vein comes the 2021 Toyota Avalon Trd, a car that might just make you do a double-take. It’s a vehicle that seemingly defies its own segment, and while its target audience might be niche, its existence is certainly welcome.
Aesthetics: Youthful Aggression Meets Avalon Comfort
The first impression of the Toyota Avalon TRD is striking. “Sheesh” might be an appropriate reaction. While all current generation Avalons sport a prominent front grille, on the TRD, it somehow feels more integrated with the overall aggressive design. The TRD model is adorned with sharp angles, aerodynamic lips, and noticeable protrusions around the lower body. The 19-inch alloy wheels nicely fill the wheel wells, contributing to a sportier stance. Toyota has opted for a blacked-out treatment for most badges and trim, which further emphasizes the TRD’s cat-back exhaust system. Adding to the visual appeal, the entire sedan sits 0.6 inches lower than the standard Avalon, giving it a more planted and athletic look.
While some might perceive the styling as reminiscent of aftermarket modifications, the Avalon TRD possesses a unique charm. It injects an unexpected element of fun into Toyota’s larger sedan lineup. Similar to the quirky Prius rally car, the Avalon TRD represents a departure from the norm, adapting a traditionally conservative model to a more unconventional, sport-oriented persona. After all, a little bit of “weird” can be a good thing.
Interior: Sporty Accents Within Familiar Space
Stepping inside the Toyota Avalon TRD, the sporty theme is toned down, offering a more familiar Avalon experience. The interior largely mirrors the standard model, but with distinct TRD touches. Red contrast stitching adds a pop of color, while TRD logos are subtly placed throughout the cabin. The floor mats are decidedly sporty, and the bright red seatbelts echo those found in performance-focused brands, like Mercedes-Benz, adding a touch of visual flair.
Despite the sporty enhancements, the Avalon TRD remains fundamentally a spacious family sedan. Practicality is still a key strength. The center armrest and door pockets offer generous storage space. A convenient flat tray in front of the cupholders is ideal for smartphones or other small items. Rear passengers enjoy ample legroom, easily accommodating taller adults. The Avalon’s trunk boasts a substantial 16 cubic feet of cargo space, surpassing the Nissan Maxima in luggage capacity, though slightly smaller than the Dodge Charger’s trunk.
Driving Dynamics: Sporty Intent, Not Full-Blown Performance
The Toyota Avalon TRD aims to deliver a sportier driving experience without fully transforming into a dedicated sports sedan. It retains the standard 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, identical to other Avalon trims. Power is delivered through the same eight-speed automatic transmission, sending power exclusively to the front wheels. While acceleration is more than adequate for everyday driving, including highway merges and winding roads, a desire for more power lingers, perhaps an additional 50 horsepower to truly elevate the “sport” in TRD. The TRD-specific exhaust system provides a pleasing engine note across the RPM range, enhancing the auditory driving experience.
Underneath the skin, Toyota engineers have made specific upgrades to enhance handling. Stiffer springs and sway bars, wider wheels, larger brakes, and retuned static dampers are part of the TRD package. In normal driving, the TRD feels marginally firmer than a standard Avalon, transmitting slightly more road feedback into the cabin. However, the core Avalon DNA remains, prioritizing a quiet and comfortable ride. While the Avalon TRD exhibits improved handling and remains composed in corners, the all-season Michelin tires ultimately limit its outright performance capabilities. The absence of all-wheel drive and a limited-slip differential means the front tires can struggle for traction under hard acceleration, leading to wheelspin. The inclusion of either AWD or an LSD, or even adaptive dampers from the Avalon Touring, could significantly enhance the TRD’s sporty character and driving appeal.
Fuel economy for the Avalon TRD is slightly lower than other Avalon models, but not drastically so. EPA ratings are 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, figures that are realistically achievable in everyday driving, and only marginally less efficient than the base and XLE trims.
Technology: User-Friendly and Well-Equipped
Toyota deserves credit for equipping even lower trim levels with user-friendly technology, and the Avalon TRD is no exception. All Avalon trims, including the TRD, come standard with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, satellite radio, and a generous four USB charging ports (two front, two rear). Navigation is available as part of an optional package that also includes upgraded JBL speakers. The infotainment system is functional and easy to use, though the graphics might appear somewhat dated to some. However, it provides all the essential features most buyers expect and operates reliably.
In terms of safety technology, every Avalon includes Toyota Safety Sense P, a comprehensive suite of active safety and driver-assistance features. This includes forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, automatic high beams, and full-speed adaptive cruise control. These systems function seamlessly, consistent with Toyota’s reputation for safety. One notable omission on the Avalon TRD is the absence of parking sensors, which would be beneficial given the car’s size and the desire to protect its distinctive front grille. However, parking sensors are available on other Avalon trims.
Conclusion: A Niche Sporty Sedan with a Price Tag to Match
While some further performance enhancements could truly unleash the Toyota Avalon TRD’s sporty potential, the price point might become a limiting factor. As it stands, the 2021 Toyota Avalon TRD starts at $43,870, including destination charges. This price places it above all other Avalon trims, except for the top-of-the-line Limited Hybrid. When considering that a Dodge Charger with a significantly more powerful 485-hp V8 engine (and arguably a more modern infotainment system) is available at a similar price, the Avalon TRD requires a specific buyer profile to make a strong financial argument.
However, for those who appreciate sporty Japanese sedans and desire something a bit different from the mainstream, the 2021 Toyota Avalon TRD offers a compelling option. While it may not be a radical departure from the standard Avalon in terms of outright performance, it successfully injects a dose of fun and individuality into a segment often perceived as conservative. The Avalon TRD effectively challenges the stereotype of Avalons as solely vehicles for a more mature demographic, proving that Toyota’s flagship sedan can indeed have a playful side.
