What is the difference between Avalon TRD and touring?

The Avalon TRD is a limited, performance-focused variant with track-tuned handling and distinctive styling, while the Avalon Touring is a sportier trim that emphasizes aggressive looks and premium features without the TRD-based performance upgrades. In practical terms, TRD is about how the car behaves on the road, Touring is about how it arrives in style and comfort.

To understand which version fits a buyer's needs, it helps to compare them across performance, styling, interior features, and availability. Below is a detailed breakdown of how the two differ and what each brings to the table.

Performance and handling

The following points highlight how the driving experience differs between the two variants.

• Engineering focus: TRD is engineered for sharper handling with a performance-oriented chassis setup, while Touring emphasizes a balanced, engaging drive with standard suspension tuning.


• Suspension and steering: TRD uses upgraded suspension components and tuning to improve cornering grip and stability; Touring generally relies on the conventional suspension with sportier styling, prioritizing comfort with a touch of sport.


• Brakes and exhaust: TRD typically includes enhanced brakes and a more expressive exhaust note to match its performance intent; Touring does not include TRD-level braking upgrades or exhaust changes.


• Power and drivetrain: Both variants use the same engine family (a 3.5-liter V6 in most model years) with similar horsepower (around 301 hp) and front-wheel drive; there is no meaningful horsepower boost for the TRD over Touring.

In practice, you’ll notice the TRD version feels tighter and more track-focused, whereas the Touring offers a sportier ride without sacrificing everyday comfort.

Exterior and interior design and features

The following highlights show how styling and equipment diverge between the two trims.

• Exterior styling: TRD features a distinctive aero kit, bold TRD badging, and unique wheels designed to emphasize performance aesthetics; Touring adopts a sportier look with differentiated fascia tweaks and wheel designs that suggest sportiness without the full TRD kit.


• Body kit and aerodynamics: TRD often includes performance-oriented aero elements that enhance downforce and attitude on the road; Touring focuses on aggressive styling cues without the deep performance aero package.


• Interior touches: TRD interiors tend to carry TRD-themed accents and branding along with sport-oriented seating or trims; Touring interiors emphasize premium materials and comfort with sport-inspired touches.


• Comfort and technology: Touring typically equips higher-level convenience features and audio/tech options that align with a luxury-sport experience; TRD prioritizes performance hardware over exclusive interior tech, though some TRD builds offer comparable infotainment options.

Overall, Touring delivers a sport-inspired look and well-appointed cabin, while TRD focuses on a bold, track-ready aesthetic and performance hardware.

Availability and current status

Model-year availability and market status explain why you might see one more often than the other in the used market.

• Model years: The Avalon TRD was a limited-run variant offered around 2020 and 2021; it was not a long-running staple of the lineup. The Touring trim has appeared across multiple model years within the Avalon generation.


• Current status: Toyota discontinued the Avalon after the 2022 model year in the U.S.; there are no new Avalons in current production, including TRD or Touring variants. Existing stock and used examples are what buyers will find today.

For buyers today, TRD models are rarer on the used market, and Touring examples are more commonly available from earlier years within the Avalon generation.

Choosing between TRD and Touring

Deciding which variant suits you depends on how you plan to use the car and what you value most in a daily driver.

Who should consider the Avalon TRD?

People seeking a more aggressive driving experience, with aggressive styling and dedicated performance hardware, should consider TRD if they’re aiming for a weekend-sport setup or track-day inspiration, and they don’t mind a firmer ride.

Who should consider the Avalon Touring?

Those who want a sportier, visually distinct Avalon with premium features and a comfortable ride for daily driving should lean toward Touring. It offers stylish looks and upscale amenities without the specialized performance tuning of TRD.

Because the Avalon line has ended, both options are only accessible as used models or through dealer stock from earlier years. Prospective buyers should assess ride comfort, maintenance history, and availability of parts or service in their area when shopping.

Summary

The Avalon TRD is a short-lived, performance-oriented variant with track-focused hardware and bold styling, designed for enthusiastic driving and a more aggressive appearance. The Avalon Touring is a sportier trim that prioritizes athletic design and premium comfort without the TRD's dedicated performance enhancements. With the Avalon lineup discontinued after 2022, prospective buyers are limited to used examples, making availability and condition key considerations in choosing between the two.

What does TRD mean on an Avalon?

TRD stands for Toyota Racing Development, the performance division of Toyota. Created to elevate the Huntington Beach driving experience, TRD focuses on tuning, testing, and developing performance parts and packages for off-road adventures and track-inspired driving.

What is the Avalon touring package?

The driving range for the 2022 Toyota Touring trim is a bit longer than the lower trims due to the larger fuel tank capacity that sits at 15.8, around 2 more gallons. The 2022 Toyota Avalon Touring trim also has a premium audio system that is a step up from the basic Audio plus system the lower trims have to offer.

What is the difference between the Avalon and the Avalon TRD?

Performance. The essential difference between the Avalon and its TRD variation is their driving experience. The Avalon has always been a gentle cruiser with a relaxingly smooth ride and cushioned suspension. This holds true in the 2020 model, while the TRD trim enhances performance with refreshingly nimble handling.

What year to stay away from Toyota Avalon?

The Toyota Avalon years to avoid are primarily 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2011, 2013, and 2014 due to reports of issues like cracked dashboards, engine oil leaks, premature brake wear, transmission problems, and faulty VVTi oil lines. Specifically, the 2006 model is known for several significant problems, including an oil leak issue that could lead to engine damage, and the 2013 and 2014 models are criticized for a rougher ride and electrical issues.
 
This video discusses the best and worst Toyota Avalon years to own: 51sCar MavenYouTube · Jul 23, 2025
Specific years to approach with caution

• 2005: Has been associated with numerous recalls and issues, particularly concerning brakes, electrical accessories, and other components. 
• 2006: Noted for multiple problems including engine oil leaks (potentially from a faulty oil line), excessive oil consumption, transmission hesitations, and dashboard cracks. 
• 2007: Owners report issues like cracked dashboards, exhaust system problems, and paint delamination. 
• 2008: Has been subject to recalls and complaints about exhaust issues, dashboard cracks, paint defects, and wheel bearing wear. 
• 2011: Is listed as a model year with higher reported issues. 
• 2013: Has a high number of complaints related to engine, transmission, and electrical steering problems. 
• 2014: Faced complaints about a less luxurious ride compared to previous generations, early suspension wear, and infotainment system glitches. 

This video provides a buyer's guide for the Toyota Avalon, including potential issues with 2013-2018 models: 1mDiscerning CarsYouTube · Dec 16, 2023
Key issues to look for

• Engine and Oil Leaks: The 2006 model is especially notorious for a VVTi oil line that can rupture and cause engine damage. 
• Dashboard Cracks: This is a common complaint across several model years, including the 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008 models. 
• Transmission Problems: Some 2013 and 2015 models reported transmission issues, with some sources noting transmission rebuilds are common for 2015 models. 
• Suspension and Ride: The 2014 model was noted for trading plushness for a sharper ride, with some early wear reported in the suspension. 
• Electrical Issues: Problems have been reported in various years, including headlight issues in 2013, a problematic blind spot monitor system in 2013, and infotainment glitches in 2014.