Toyota, a brand often associated with reliability and practicality, occasionally throws a curveball, revealing a playful side. Think of a Prius rally car or a Yaris with unexpected horsepower – these are the moments Toyota steps outside its normcore image. The 2021 Avalon Trd is another such surprise. It’s a car that might raise eyebrows and prompt a second look, leaving many wondering, “Who is this for?” Yet, its existence is something to be celebrated.
Striking Aesthetics: A Bold Take on the Avalon
The first impression of the Toyota Avalon TRD is often a resounding “Sheesh.” It’s a design that demands attention. While all current generation Avalons sport a prominent grille, it seems particularly fitting on the TRD model, complementing the aggressive styling cues found throughout the vehicle. Sharp lines and aerodynamic elements accentuate the lower body, while the 19-inch alloy wheels perfectly fill the wheel arches. The majority of the Avalon’s emblems and trim pieces are blacked out, emphasizing the TRD’s distinctive cat-back exhaust system. Furthermore, the entire sedan sits 0.6 inches lower than the standard Avalon, enhancing its sporty stance.
While the visual modifications might resemble aftermarket customizations, the Avalon TRD possesses a unique charm rarely seen in Toyota’s larger sedans. Similar to the unconventional Prius rally car, the Avalon TRD thrives on defying expectations and adapting to a sportier persona. This willingness to be different is what makes the Avalon TRD intriguing and fun.
Driving Dynamics: Injecting Excitement into the Avalon
The 2021 Toyota Avalon TRD successfully captures the essence of a sport sedan without fully committing to the extreme. It retains the familiar 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, identical to other Avalon trims. This power is delivered through the same eight-speed automatic transmission, driving the front wheels. The powertrain provides ample acceleration for everyday driving and spirited highway merges. The TRD-specific exhaust note adds an enjoyable auditory dimension across the rev range, yet a boost of around 50 more horsepower would elevate the driving experience to truly exhilarating levels.
Underneath its skin, the Avalon TRD distinguishes itself with performance-oriented upgrades. Toyota engineers have incorporated stiffer springs and sway bars, wider wheels, larger brakes, and fine-tuned static dampers. In typical driving scenarios, the TRD exhibits a slightly firmer ride compared to standard Avalons, transmitting a bit more road texture into the cabin. However, it remains fundamentally an Avalon, prioritizing cabin quietness and a comfortable ride quality. Despite these enhancements, the all-season Michelin tires reach their limits similarly to those on other Avalon models. The absence of all-wheel drive and a limited-slip differential means the front tires can struggle for traction under hard acceleration, resulting in wheel squeal. Adding either AWD or an LSD would inject more character and improve performance. Incorporating the adaptive dampers from the Avalon Touring trim could strike an ideal balance between sporty handling and ride comfort.
Fuel efficiency in the Avalon TRD is marginally lower than other Avalons, rated by the EPA at 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, figures easily attainable in real-world driving. This minor difference in fuel economy is a small trade-off for the TRD’s enhanced appeal.
Technology and Practicality: Balancing Sport and Sedan Needs
Toyota deserves credit for equipping all Avalon trims, including the TRD, with a comprehensive suite of technology features. A standard 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system includes both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with satellite radio and four USB charging ports (USB-A and USB-C for front and rear passengers). Navigation is available as part of an optional package, which also upgrades the audio system to JBL speakers. While the system’s graphics might appear slightly dated, it is user-friendly and provides all essential functions that modern drivers expect.
Safety is also a priority across the Avalon range. Every Avalon TRD comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense P, a suite of active safety and driver-assistance technologies. 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 operate seamlessly and reliably, consistent with Toyota’s reputation for safety technology. A minor omission for the Avalon TRD is the absence of parking sensors, given its size and sporty body kit. However, parking sensors are available on other Avalon trims.
Value Proposition: Is the Avalon TRD Worth It?
The 2021 Toyota Avalon TRD starts at $43,870, including destination charges. This price point positions it above all other Avalon trims, except for the top-of-the-line Limited Hybrid. When considering that a Dodge Charger with a potent 485-hp V8 and a more advanced infotainment system can be had for a similar price, the financial justification for the Avalon TRD becomes challenging. To choose the Avalon TRD, one must have a strong preference for its unique blend of Japanese sport sedan styling and Toyota’s renowned reliability.
However, for those who appreciate sporty Japanese sedans, the 2021 Toyota Avalon TRD offers a distinctive and appealing option. While it may not represent a radical departure from the standard Avalon in terms of outright performance, it successfully challenges the perception of the Avalon as a purely comfort-oriented sedan. The Avalon TRD is a fun-to-drive four-door that injects a dose of excitement and youthful spirit into Toyota’s flagship sedan lineup.
