2020 Toyota Camry TRD Top Shot
When Toyota Canada extended an invitation to test drive the 2020 Toyota Camry Trd, skepticism was my initial reaction. A Camry TRD? The words seemed almost contradictory. Approaching the vehicle, my doubts began to dissipate as I took in the aggressive styling and sporty stance. This wasn’t the Camry I knew. This was something different, something… fun. In fact, it’s been a while since a Camry offered this much driving engagement, and that’s a significant statement coming from someone with personal Camry ownership experience.
NASCAR DNA Infused
2020 Toyota Camry TRD Front Three Quarter View
The 2020 Toyota Camry TRD might initially appear as another attempt to inject excitement into a mainstream sedan, much like the Nissan Altima SE-R or Mitsubishi Galant Ralliart. These models often promised performance but delivered lukewarm results. However, the Camry TRD is a different breed. Toyota’s motivation behind this model is twofold: to inject some much-needed dynamism into the declining midsize sedan segment and to celebrate Toyota’s deep involvement in NASCAR. While it’s important to clarify that this Camry doesn’t share components with the fire-breathing, 800-horsepower NASCAR machines, the spirit of performance is undeniably present.
2020 Toyota Camry TRD Side Profile View
Toyota’s aim with the 2020 Toyota Camry TRD is to challenge perceptions of the humble midsize sedan. They believe there’s still a market for sedans that prioritize driving pleasure. And they have a point. Despite the SUV boom significantly impacting sedan sales, the Toyota Camry remains a strong seller, with over 300,000 units sold in North America alone the previous year. The Camry TRD aims to capture buyers seeking a sedan with a sporty edge.
Toyota Camry TRD Rear Three Quarter View
Under the skin, the 2020 Toyota Camry TRD starts with the potent Camry XSE V6 as its foundation. The engine remains unchanged, delivering a healthy 301 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque from the familiar 3.5-liter V6. This engine, a workhorse across the Toyota and Lexus lineups, sends power exclusively to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. The core enhancements of the TRD package lie in the chassis, braking, and suspension systems.
Toyota Camry TRD Engine Bay View
The TRD engineers focused on sharpening the Camry’s handling. Stiffer springs and thicker anti-roll bars (27mm front vs 25.4mm standard) are implemented to significantly reduce body roll in corners. Braking performance is enhanced with larger front rotors, increased by 23mm in diameter. To further enhance rigidity, stiffer underbody braces and a V-brace behind the rear seats are added, contributing to improved chassis control. The dampers also receive performance-oriented upgrades, including return springs and revised valving, designed to improve responsiveness during spirited driving and cornering maneuvers.
Toyota Camry TRD Alloy Wheels Detail
Beyond the mechanical upgrades, the 2020 Toyota Camry TRD receives a visual makeover to match its sporty intentions. It inherits the Camry XSE’s two-tone color scheme and adds a rear wing, rear diffuser, more aggressively styled front and rear bumpers, and side skirts. These elements collectively distinguish the TRD as the most visually dynamic Camry in the lineup. Completing the performance and aesthetic package are a throatier performance-tuned exhaust system and unique 19-inch matte black alloy wheels. These TRD wheels are not only visually striking but also functionally lighter, saving 3.1 pounds per wheel and widening the stance by 0.5 inches compared to standard Camry XSE wheels. Inside, the Camry TRD cabin receives red accents, seatbelts, and instrument gauges, reinforcing the sporty theme. This comprehensive TRD package delivers a surprisingly substantial transformation for the price.
Toyota Camry TRD Instrument Gauges Closeup
The price point is where the 2020 Toyota Camry TRD truly shines. Expecting a premium price tag for these upgrades, the as-tested price of $38,000 USD (Canadian market price mentioned in original article) is a pleasant surprise. This pricing positions the Camry TRD as an accessible performance sedan, offering remarkable value considering the level of enhancements.
Not a True Sports Sedan, But Exceedingly Fun
Toyota Camry TRD Driving Front Side View
Behind the wheel, the 2020 Toyota Camry TRD reveals itself as a significantly more engaging sedan than the already competent Camry XSE. The standard Camry XSE V6 is no stranger to spirited driving, offering a commendable level of agility and composure. This inherent dynamism is largely attributed to Toyota’s TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform, which lowers the center of gravity, enhancing handling. This same platform underpins models like the Lexus ES, showcasing its inherent capabilities.
Toyota Camry TRD Front View Driving
However, it’s crucial to maintain realistic expectations. The 2020 Toyota Camry TRD is not a purpose-built sports sedan in the vein of European performance models. Its front-wheel-drive configuration inevitably leads to understeer and wheelspin when pushed hard, particularly under aggressive acceleration. The eight-speed automatic transmission, while generally smooth, exhibits some lag in downshifts when manual gear changes are requested. Furthermore, the transmission’s torque converter programming prevents bouncing off the rev limiter in manual mode, automatically upshifting even when the driver intends to hold a gear.
Despite these limitations, the 2020 Toyota Camry TRD delivers genuine driving enjoyment. The naturally aspirated V6 engine provides not only brisk acceleration – reaching 0-60 mph in under six seconds and covering the quarter-mile in around 14.5 seconds – but also a pleasing engine note as it revs. The sport-tuned exhaust adds a satisfying growl without becoming overly intrusive or boisterous, striking a good balance for daily driving.
Toyota Camry TRD Driving Side View on Road
The Camry TRD exhibits a planted and solid feel when cornering, maintaining composure and encouraging the driver to explore its limits. The upgraded brakes offer ample stopping power for street driving, although they might not withstand sustained track use, as brake fade can occur after repeated hard stops. Steering feel remains a typical Camry characteristic – light and somewhat vague, lacking the feedback enthusiasts crave in a dedicated sports sedan.
Toyota Camry TRD Interior Front Seats and Dashboard View
In terms of everyday usability, the 2020 Toyota Camry TRD retains the familiar Camry attributes, both positive and negative. The ride quality is surprisingly compliant for a sport-tuned model, avoiding excessive harshness. The cabin remains spacious and comfortable, suitable for daily commutes and longer journeys. However, the infotainment system is an area where Toyota lags behind competitors. The system’s interface can feel convoluted and less intuitive compared to systems from South Korean and American automakers. The graphics and overall design also appear somewhat dated in comparison to more modern systems.
Ultimately, the 2020 Toyota Camry TRD is a surprisingly well-executed package. It injects a dose of fun and excitement into the Camry lineup, proving that even a mainstream sedan can possess a sporty character. Toyota’s willingness to create a “performance” version of its bread-and-butter sedan is commendable and adds an unexpected coolness factor. The Camry TRD is far from being a boring car.
Toyota Camry TRD Driving Rear View on Road
Will the 2020 Toyota Camry TRD become a sales phenomenon? Likely not. Production was limited to under 10,000 units for both the US and Canadian markets, suggesting it’s more of a niche model aimed at dedicated Camry enthusiasts and those seeking a unique, affordable performance sedan. However, with its sub-$40,000 price tag and limited production, the Camry TRD offers exceptional value and is poised to become a future classic, representing a bold and sporty chapter in the Camry’s history.
Clavey’s Verdict
Review of the 2020 Toyota Camry TRD by William Clavey – Midsize Sedans
Pros:
- Engaging and improved handling dynamics
- Distinctive and aggressive styling
- Excellent value proposition
Cons:
- Not a true sports sedan in terms of outright performance
- Eight-speed transmission can be slow to respond
- Infotainment system lacks intuitiveness
Rating: 8 / 10
Clavey’s Corner is based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Prices and specifications mentioned in this review are reflective of the Canadian market.
Special thanks to Toyota Canada for providing the test vehicle.
Photography by Guillaume Fournier.
Contact the author: [email protected]
