Flash Drive

2020 Toyota Camry TRD

March 17, 2020 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2020 Toyota Camry TRD V6 Sedan

The 2020 Toyota Camry TRD has upgraded suspension to match its aggressive styling.

Engine: 3.5L V6, 301 horsepower, 267 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 8-speed automatic, front-wheel-drive

EPA Rating: 22-mpg city, 31-mpg highway, 25-mpg combined

Base Price: $31,040

As Tested: $32,920

Performance:

A sporty Camry worthy of the TRD (Toyota Racing Development) emblem

Large brakes with two-piston calipers

The large brakes have two piston calipers.

Good brake pedal feel

Sporty, considerably stiffer suspension compared to other Camry models

Stiff suspension noticeable over highway expansion strips

Impressive fuel economy—our best was 37.0-mpg highway

Drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport

Sport mode makes very noticeable improvement

Great exhaust note

Comfort:

Super stretch-out front legroom—I moved seat up

The brilliant Supersonic Red paint is a $425 option, but well worth it.

Medium thick, slightly contoured leather steering wheel

Ample auxiliary controls

Big range tilt/telescopic steering column

Driver power lumbar support

Passenger seat has height adjustment pump

OK quality interior materials

Inexpensive headliner

Ample rear seat room for large adults

Comfy outboard seats; middle position padding is OK

Front seat room is fine and the steering wheel is great. The red striped upholstery was a bit much for us.

Utility:

Large trunk with wide opening

Flat trunk floor

6-inch lift-over

Very wide opening doors

Medium to small front door bins

Large center console bin with semi-hard armrest

Folding rear seats are optional

Two large seatback storage pouches

Small rear door bins with bottle notches

WOW Factors:

The rear view shows several boy racer styling cues including the rear wing lower fascia.

Least expensive way to get a V-6 Camry

Strong acceleration

Sporty handling

Aggressive styling (this could be either a plus or a minus)

Stunning Supersonic Red paint (a $425 option)

Whines:

Blind spot monitor not available

Red stripes in seats were a bit much

No rear seat center armrest

The 2020 Toyota Camry TRD is great fun on twisty back roads.

Bottom Line:

The new 2020 Toyota Camry TRD sedan is a fun departure from more pedestrian Camry variants. The TRD is aggressively styled with performance to warrant its looks. It’s a strong value being based on the Camry SE. Performance and fun supersede luxury, but the interior is still roomy and comfortable.