25 MPG combined is what you get with the 2021 Toyota Camry TRD with the 3.5L V6.
To be clear: nobody buys this Camry to save gas. They buy it for the punchy V6, the taut suspension, and the somewhat aggressive styling.
The fuel economy is simply something you tolerate to get those features.
If prioritizing MPG is most important to you, you’re looking at the wrong Camry.
But if you want the most powerful, most engaging Camry available, then you accept the realities that come with it.

City and highway performance

Breaking down that combined number, the 2021 Camry TRD V6 achieves an EPA-estimated 22 MPG in the city.
This reflects urban driving, where frequent stops and starts reduce fuel efficiency.
On the open road, the Camry TRD does better, achieving a respectable 31 MPG on the highway.
This improvement is largely due to consistent speeds and less acceleration needed from the engine.
The eight-speed automatic transmission helps optimize fuel consumption at higher speeds, keeping the engine within its most efficient operating range.
These numbers aren’t the best in the class, but they also aren’t bad for a V6-powered sedan that puts driving enjoyment first.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2021 Toyota Camry TRD V6 is $1,750.
This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel prices at the time of calculation.
This is more than the four-cylinder Camry models, and something TRD buyers must consider when budgeting.
While fuel prices change, this figure provides a good benchmark for your annual fuel expenses.
Remember that personal driving habits, local fuel prices, and even tire pressure can change the amount you spend at the pump.

Real-world expectations

The EPA figures provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy can change based on driving styles and conditions.
Aggressive acceleration, heavy braking, and extended idling will all hurt fuel efficiency.
Driving in heavy traffic or hilly terrain can reduce MPG.
Smooth acceleration, consistent speeds, and careful driving can help you achieve or exceed the EPA estimates.
Owners who want better fuel economy and drive carefully will likely see numbers closer to the 25 MPG combined figure, while those who drive the TRD hard may see slightly lower numbers.

How it compares

Compared to other mid-size sedans, the 2021 Camry TRD V6’s fuel economy is what you might expect.
The Honda Accord 2.0T, a popular competitor with similar performance, gets an EPA-estimated 26 MPG combined.
The Nissan Altima SR VC-Turbo, with its variable compression engine, gets a slightly better 29 MPG combined.
The Kia K5 GT, another sporty contender, posts 27 MPG combined.
Choosing a four-cylinder Camry improves fuel economy; the base LE trim manages 32 MPG combined.
These figures show the trade-off between performance and efficiency.
Those seeking maximum MPG in a mid-size sedan will likely choose smaller engines or hybrid versions. If you are looking for CAMRY MPG across all years, it can be found here.
But for those who want a V6, the Camry TRD does well against its direct rivals. If you’d like to see all Toyota fuel economy data, it is published separately.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Camry TRD’s adaptive cruise control system on the highway.
Maintaining a consistent speed improves fuel economy and reduces driver fatigue on long drives.
Set it and let the car manage throttle inputs for the best fuel efficiency.

Avoid aggressive acceleration.
While the V6 engine is quick, resist flooring it all the time.
Gentle acceleration minimizes fuel consumption and helps keep momentum.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated.
Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which hurts fuel economy.
Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level.

Minimize idling.
If you’ll be sitting for more than a minute, turn off the engine.
Idling wastes fuel and causes unnecessary emissions.

Brake gently.
Looking ahead at traffic and easing off the gas sooner will save fuel compared to braking hard later.
This is also safer.

The 2021 Toyota Camry TRD V6 isn’t about the highest MPG; it’s about a fun sedan with a strong engine.
Owners who accept that compromise can enjoy its performance and still get respectable fuel economy by driving carefully.