2023 Toyota Corolla LE vs. SE Comparison

If you’re searching for a dependable, fuel-efficient compact ride, there’s a good chance the Toyota Corolla is at the top of your list. This venerable Japanese import is a long-time favorite of drivers who value affordability, practicality, and Toyota’s legendary reliability. But which Corolla trim is right for you? Two of the most popular trims are the Corolla LE and SE. Both are excellent choices, but some key differences may sway your decision.

On the one hand, the LE trim offers excellent value for the budget-minded shopper. In addition, it boasts a few more perks over the entry-level L variant, including factory options to dress up the exterior. On the other hand, the SE trim is the value leader of the Corolla lineup. It pairs exceptional performance with tasteful interior and exterior upgrades. Plus, unique edition models like the Nightshade and Apex ensure you can stand out from the crowd.

Let’s pit these two hotly contested trims head-to-head in a series of categories to see which one comes out on top and is worthy of your hard-earned dollar.

Pricing

As Toyota’s economy sedan option, the entire Corolla lineup offers a very attractive price point. And, even its most costly Apex trim will only set you back around $26,665 MSRP — making it one of the least expensive cars in the class. So, when it comes to pricing, both the LE and SE trims are great value propositions.

However, the LE pulls ahead with a starting MSRP of $21,970 — several hundred dollars less than the SE’s $22,260 MSRP. This makes the LE an unbeatable bargain for anyone on a strict budget. But then again, the SE trim has exclusive edition models that may be worth the extra cash.

Performance

On the performance front, the SE trim is a clear winner. It comes standard with Toyota’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. This mill packs 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque — enough to outrun the LE trim’s 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that is good for 139 horsepower and 126 lb-ft of torque. The SE trim also has a sport-tuned exhaust, sport suspension, and refined steering, making it the ideal choice for those wanting to take their morning commute up a notch.

Both trims come with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps to maximize fuel economy. An optional six-speed manual transmission is also available on the SE trim. Although throttle response is sharper with the manual, both transmissions offer smooth shifts and responsive acceleration. And thanks to the potent 2.0-liter engine, the SE trim has a zero to 60 time of only 8 seconds, making it an excellent pick for thrill-seekers.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is a significant factor for many Corolla shoppers, so comparing the two trims’ efficiency ratings would only be fair. The LE trim averages an impressive 30 mpg in city driving, 38 mpg on the highway, and 33 mpg combined. Meanwhile, the SE trim can save even more fuel with its improved engine. It scores up to 31 mpg in city driving, 40 mpg on the highway, and 34 mpg combined. That’s a slight but noteworthy 2 mpg bump in the SE trim, which is welcome news for those who rack up a lot of miles.

Interior and Exterior

There’s relatively little difference between the LE and SE trims regarding interior and exterior features. Both come standard with a six-way power driver’s seat, remote keyless entry, and a six-speaker audio system. Additionally, both trims have 60/40 split-folding rear seats, automatic climate control, and premium black cloth upholstery. The SE trim offers a bit more refinement with a leather-trimmed steering wheel, premium sports seats with sport fabric inserts, and LED daytime running lights.

Outside, the SE trim has a few more bells and whistles than the LE. It comes with black accents, alloy wheels, and a sporty black and bronze front lip spoiler — great for styling up your ride. In addition, high-grade LED headlights, a sport mesh dark grille, and chrome exhaust tips give the SE trim an even more stylish look. The LE trim does have a few factory options to dress up the exterior, but you’ll have to pay extra for those.

Infotainment and Connectivity

This is another area where the LE and SE trims are nearly identical. Both come with an 8-inch touch screen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth integration are also standard. The SE trim does give you access to a few more entertainment options, like a nine-speaker JBL sound system. Overall, the LE and SE trims offer great connectivity features, so you won’t be missing out on anything with either of them.

Safety

The Toyota Corolla is a safe car, no matter which trim you choose. The LE and SE trim come standard with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite of driver-assistance features, including lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, electronic stability control, and driver monitoring alert. In addition, optional features like a blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert are available on both trims. It’s a tie in the safety department, so you can feel extra secure with either Corolla model.

Which Corolla is Right for You?

The Toyota Corolla LE and SE trims are both great options for those who want to get the most out of their Corolla experience. But all things considered, it’s hard not to recommend the SE trim. You get performance upgrades, improved fuel economy, and a ton of interior and exterior upgrades for only a few hundred dollars more. But, of course, the LE trim is still an excellent choice for those who don’t need all the bells and whistles. Either way, you can rest assured that you will get a reliable, sporty, and safe car.

Longo Toyota of El Monte, California, is your one-stop shop for all things Toyota. From getting pre-qualified for auto financing to taking a test drive and choosing the right trim. We make it easy to drive away in your dream car. And not only do we offer great prices on new Toyota cars, but we also have a variety of used and certified pre-owned vehicles to choose from. Contact us or visit us today to experience the Longo difference. We look forward to helping you find the perfect Toyota for your needs.

Tags: Corolla, Sedan, Toyota
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