25 MPG combined begs the question: what are you willing to sacrifice for a little swagger in your family sedan? The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD, with its glorious 3.5L V6, acknowledges that fuel efficiency isn’t its main goal. It’s a statement, a subtle rebellion against the sensible reputation of the Camry line. This isn’t for the hypermiler; it’s for the driver who wants a touch of excitement without abandoning practicality altogether.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the Camry TRD break down to 22 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the reality of stop-and-go traffic, where the engine’s strong power becomes less relevant. The eight-speed automatic transmission, while generally smooth, can sometimes feel like it’s holding the engine back in urban environments, prioritizing fuel saving over immediate response. On the open road, the 31 MPG highway rating is respectable, allowing for comfortable and relatively economical cruising. However, heavy-footed drivers should expect this number to drop. The engine’s willingness to rev and the satisfying exhaust note encourage spirited driving, which inevitably impacts fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Toyota Camry TRD at $1,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices (which fluctuate, of course). It provides a standardized benchmark for comparing fuel costs across different vehicles. This is a crucial point for potential buyers: are you comfortable with this expenditure to enjoy the TRD’s unique character and performance, or would prioritizing fuel savings be more beneficial for your usage habits?

Real-world expectations

Remember, EPA figures are generated under controlled conditions. Real-world fuel economy can vary significantly depending on driving style, traffic conditions, and even tire pressure. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and sustained high speeds will all negatively impact your MPG. Basic maintenance, like regular oil changes and tire inflation, can also diminish fuel efficiency. Owners who consistently drive with a lighter foot and adhere to maintenance schedules will likely see numbers closer to the EPA estimates, while those who embrace the TRD’s sporty persona might find themselves averaging closer to 22-23 MPG combined.

How it compares

The Camry TRD’s fuel economy sits in an interesting spot within the mid-size sedan segment. A standard 2022 Camry with the base 2.5L four-cylinder engine achieves an EPA-estimated 28 MPG combined, making it a considerably more efficient choice for those primarily focused on fuel costs. Stepping outside the Toyota family, the Honda Accord with the 1.5T engine boasts around 33 MPG combined. Even the more powerful Accord 2.0T models manage low 30s. The Nissan Altima with its base engine comes in around 32 MPG combined. However, these alternatives lack the TRD’s specific performance tuning and aggressive styling. The all-wheel-drive Subaru Legacy achieves around 30 MPG combined, offering comparable fuel efficiency but a different driving experience, and is offered with a turbocharged engine that delivers similar performance. Those considering AWD might also want to look at the Mazda 3 AWD, which gets a slightly better 30 MPG combined and offers a more premium interior. The comparison clarifies the trade-off: the Toyota Camry TRD buyer is willingly sacrificing some fuel economy for a more engaging and visually distinctive driving experience. It’s a conscious choice, not an oversight.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The 3.5L V6 is eager to deliver its power, but each burst of acceleration saps fuel. Smooth, gradual acceleration will significantly improve your fuel economy, especially in city driving. Instead of flooring it off the line, ease into the throttle and maintain a consistent speed.

Maintain optimal tire pressure. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consuming more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, at least once a month, and inflate them to the recommended pressure (which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb). This is a simple step that can make a noticeable difference over time.

Plan your routes strategically. Opt for routes that minimize stop-and-go traffic and prolonged idling. Use navigation apps to identify traffic congestion and choose alternative routes that offer smoother, more consistent speeds. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. Avoiding congestion will make a bigger difference than you think.

Lighten your load. Excess weight in the vehicle puts additional strain on the engine, diminishing fuel efficiency. Remove unnecessary items from the trunk and cargo area. Even seemingly small weights can add up over time, impacting your MPG. Do you really need all those golf clubs if you aren’t teeing off this week?

Use cruise control wisely. On the highway, cruise control can help maintain a consistent speed and optimize fuel economy. However, avoid using cruise control in hilly terrain, as the system may aggressively downshift, negating any potential fuel savings. Cruise control is best suited for flat, open roads.

For more detail, check all Toyota fuel economy data. You can also find CAMRY MPG across all years.