2021 Toyota Camry XSE V6 Vs 2021 Camry TRD
- rogermoore1415
- Mar 23, 2021
- 5 min read
Overview
After getting a complete overhaul in 2017, the eighth generation Camry feels every bit as modern and contemporary as its rivals. Toyota has injected a lot of sportiness into the Camry and it doesn’t feel as dull to drive as last-gen models. As always there are a plethora of trim levels to choose from, starting at $24,940 for the base Camry LE model to the top end XSE V6 model which will set you back a modest $35,545, which is a bargain considering the Camry is every bit a Lexus with Toyota badges.
For 2021, the Camry received only minor changes other than upgraded 9-inch touchscreen infotainment available on the XLE and higher trims, with a few styling changes here and there. The Camry remains a looker with a unique front-end design that will grab a lot of attention.
2021 Toyota Camry: XSE V6 vs TRD
Today, we’re focusing on the XSE V6 and TRD trim levels, both of which come with the V6 engine. There are several differences between the two which are explained below, so you can make an informed decision on which trim to spend your money on.
2021 Toyota Camry XSE V6 - Price: $35,545
The Camry XSE V6 is the most expensive trim level on offer and comes loaded with a ton of features as standard like automatic LED headlights, 19-inch gloss black wheels, and dual exhausts with quad chrome tips, enhancing the overall look of the Camry. Exclusive to the V6 model is a panoramic glass roof with a front power tilt/slide moonroof. Toyota also offers an optional two-tone midnight black metallic roof and rear spoiler.
The 3.5L V6 engine produces 301 hp and is paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel-drive is not available for V6 trim levels. Overall, the engine gives the Camry sprightly performance with a decent combined efficiency figure of 26 MPG.
The interiors are also feature loaded with comfortable leather-trimmed seats with heating for the front passengers, a 7-inch multi-information display which shows a lot of useful information, a 10-inch color Head-up-display, wireless charging, patterned metal inserts, and ambient lighting which makes the Camry feel like an entry-level luxury car at half the price, which isn’t surprising as it shares the same underpinnings as a Lexus.
The XSE V6 comes with A 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system which is new for 2021 paired with a 9-speaker audio system by JBL including a subwoofer and amplifier. Usual connectivity features like Bluetooth, USB, and Aux are available. The system also comes with Apple Carplay and Android Auto compatibility along with SiriusXM satellite radio. Connected services are also available as standard with safety connect. Shelling out $1,040 more gets you the navigation package which adds in-built dynamic navigation with a 3-year trial included and an upgraded sound system.
The XSE trim comes with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ system with features like Full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control, 10 airbags, tire pressure monitoring system, and more. The optional Driver Assist Package for $830 adds more features like Bird’s eye view camera, Intelligent Clearance Sonar, rear cross-traffic braking, and multi-stage ventilated front seats.
Overall, the Camry XSE V6 caters to customers who want both luxury and performance without compromising on comfort. It is on the expensive side, but considering the kit on offer, the price is well worth it and the Camry feels like it’s from a segment above.
2021 Toyota Camry TRD - Price: $32,185
The Camry TRD is based on the SE trim level with a host of upgrades both inside and out. The Camry receives a complete makeover by TRD that includes performance-enhancing upgrades like TRD track-tuned suspension which is a lot firmer than standard, upgraded 12.9-inch front brakes with red-painted calipers, and the powerful V6 engine that’s found in the higher trims producing 301 hp. An optional two-tone midnight black metallic roof is available.
The exterior gets a lot of distinguishing features like a gloss-black front grille with sport mesh insert, black outside rearview mirrors, black window trims, TRD exclusive 19 x 8.5-inch alloy wheels with matte-black paint, gloss-black rear spoiler, a gloss-black front splitter with side aero skirts, and rear diffuser, cat-back dual exhaust system with polished stainless steel tips and a red TRD badge.
Interiors also get the TRD treatment with red-illuminated accents around the instrument console, sport seats at the front with the TRD logo on the headrests and red seatbelts, leather-trimmed steering wheel with red stitching and paddle shifters, and aluminum sport pedals.
The infotainment system is a downgrade from the XSE trim and only gets a 7-inch touchscreen system without navigation and six speakers. Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity are still available along with SiriusXM satellite radio.
Safety features are similar to all the other Camry models but the optional Driver Assist Package is not available on the TRD trim.
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2021 Toyota Camry Engine Options
As usual, the Camry comes with three engine options including a Hybrid. The base 2.5L 4-pot engine produces just 203 hp and will struggle when fully loaded, especially on the highways. The Hybrid version gets a similar engine but paired with an electric motor for a combined output of 208 hp. As expected, the Hybrid tops the efficiency charts with a combined rating of 46 MPG compared to 32 MPG of the base engine. Enthusiasts can breathe easily, as Toyota still offers the creamy 3.5L V6 engine as an option on the higher trims which produces 301 hp with plenty of performance on tap.
The Hybrid models get a CVT transmission while both the 2.5L and 3.5L engines get an 8-speed automatic transmission. Unfortunately, the optional all-wheel-drive system is not available on the Hybrid and V6 trim levels.
One of the biggest advantages of going with the Camry instead of rivals like the Honda Accord and Hyundai Sonata is the availability of a V6 engine. If you’re willing to spend more than $35,000 on a mid-size sedan, then the V6 models of the Camry make the most sense, especially for the enthusiasts.
2021 Toyota Camry Safety
All models of the Camry come equipped with a plethora of active and passive safety features as standard. It received the highest ratings in both the NHTSA and IIHS safety tests and earned the coveted “Top Safety Pick+” award for the 2021 model year.
Which one should you pick: 2021 Camry TRD or Camry XSE V6?
The answer depends on what type of experience you’re looking for. Even though the XSE V6 costs more than the TRD trim, it comes with a lot of extra features like a panoramic glass roof, 10-inch head-up display, improved infotainment system, and better safety packages with the optional Driver Assist Package available. The XSE CV6 trim suits customers who are looking for both performance and luxury without any compromises. There are sporty touches here and there with the optional dual-tone roof and spoiler, but the XSE V6 trim remains a comfortable and powerful mid-size sedan that caters to all audiences.
The TRD trim is clearly aimed at enthusiasts with an improved sport-tuned suspension, lower ride height, bigger brakes, and sporty additions all around. The exterior gets a lot of additional TRD specific features like wider gloss-black wheels, TRD branded spoiler, body kit, and more. The interiors also receive the TRD treatment with branded sports seats at the front and aluminum sport pedals. The infotainment system is less capable compared to the XSE model with a smaller 7-inch display and fewer features although, the premium 9-speaker audio system from JBL is available as an option. Optional packages like navigation and driver-assist are not available on the TRD trim.
If you’re looking for a more balanced package with a lot of luxury and performance, then the XSE V6 trim is the best option. On the other hand, if you value the driving experience more than anything else, the TRD model with the improved sport suspension and brakes is the one to go for, even though there are limited features on offer.
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