What is the difference between Toyota Highlander XLE and LE?
The Highlander XLE is a step up from LE, adding more upscale interior materials, extra comfort features, and enhanced technology while sharing the same overall platform and powertrain options.
In practice, that translates into better seating materials, additional power adjustments, a liftgate, heated seats, larger infotainment options, and more standard or available driver-assistance features. Availability can vary by model year and market, so check the current spec sheet.
Core differences at a glance
Here’s a quick look at what typically separates XLE from LE across common model years, focusing on interior, comfort, and tech upgrades.
- Interior materials and seating: LE typically uses fabric seating, while XLE adds leather- or leatherette-style upholstery and more refined trim.
- Driver and passenger comfort: XLE commonly includes an 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat (versus a manual or fewer-way seat on LE) and often heated front seats.
- Convenience features: XLE often adds a power liftgate, remote start, Smart Key with push-button start, and enhanced cabin layout; LE focuses on essentials.
- Technology and infotainment: XLE tends to offer a larger or more advanced touchscreen, additional USB ports, and sometimes wireless charging; LE has the base system with standard connectivity.
- Safety gear: Both trims include Toyota Safety Sense, but XLE frequently has more standard driver-assist features (e.g., blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert) that may be optional on LE depending on year.
The list above reflects typical configurations for common model years; exact features can vary by year and market, so verify the current build sheet for your specific Highlander.
Interior and comfort differences
From the seats to the seating arrangements, these are the interior areas where XLE usually outpaces LE.
Upholstery and seating
- LE uses fabric seating materials, while XLE typically adds leather- or leatherette-style upholstery for a more premium feel.
- Seat adjustments: XLE generally includes an 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat, while LE may offer a manual or fewer-way configuration.
- Seating configurations: both can offer 7- or 8-passenger setups depending on year and market, but XLE often pairs with richer seating finishes and may offer captain’s chairs in the second row on certain configurations.
Interior upgrades on the XLE aim to deliver a more refined cabin experience for daily driving and longer trips.
Comfort and convenience features
- Heated front seats: More common on XLE; LE may offer them as an option or not at all in some years.
- Power-adjustable features and access: XLE frequently includes a power liftgate and Smart Key with push-button start.
- Climate and cabin features: XLE may include features like tri-zone automatic climate control in certain years, whereas LE often comes with fewer automatic-cooling options.
For many buyers, these interior upgrades translate to noticeably enhanced comfort, convenience, and overall cabin quality.
Technology and safety features
Technology and safety are where XLE commonly adds value over LE, though exact offerings vary by year.
Infotainment and connectivity
- XLE commonly upgrades to a larger touchscreen and may add extra USB ports or wireless charging, while LE sticks with the base system.
- Connectivity: both trims support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but wireless smartphone integration is more likely on newer XLE models.
Exact screen sizes, ports, and wireless capabilities depend on model year; confirm the current spec sheet for your build.
Safety tech and driver-assistance
- Standard safety: Toyota Safety Sense (or its current equivalent) is common to both trims, but XLE often includes a broader set of standard driver-assist features such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, with LE sometimes requiring an option package.
- Driver aids: adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high beams are typically more integrated with XLE or available as part of packages, whereas LE may offer them at a lower level or as add-ons.
These features are designed to enhance safety and convenience, with XLE generally delivering more comprehensive coverage out of the box.
How to choose between LE and XLE
When deciding between the two trims, weigh budget against the value you place on interior quality, comfort, and tech enhancements.
- Budget vs features: Consider the price gap and whether the upgraded upholstery, power features, and tech justify the premium.
- Daily needs: If you prioritize seating comfort, convenience features, and more advanced tech, XLE is typically the better fit; if you want core capabilities at a lower price, LE is a solid choice.
- Resale and incentives: Higher trims can hold value slightly better and may come with different incentives, but verify current offers and warranties.
Always verify the exact feature list for your chosen model year, since Toyota occasionally adjusts what’s standard or optional across trims.
Summary
In short, the Highlander XLE expands on the LE by delivering a more premium interior, greater comfort and convenience, and added technology and safety features. LE remains the more economical baseline with essential equipment. Your best choice depends on how much you value upgraded materials and tech versus sticking to a lower price point. Always check the latest build sheet for the model year you’re considering to confirm precise features and availability.
