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What is the difference between Toyota XLE and LE?

The main difference between the Toyota XLE and LE trim levels lies in the level of features and amenities offered. The XLE is the more premium and well-equipped version, while the LE is the more basic and affordable option.


Exterior and Interior Features


The Toyota XLE comes with more premium exterior features such as alloy wheels, chrome exterior accents, and LED headlights. The interior of the XLE also has leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. In contrast, the LE has steel wheels, halogen headlights, and a smaller 7-inch touchscreen. The interior of the LE has cloth upholstery and manual climate control.


Performance and Fuel Economy


Both the XLE and LE trims come with the same 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and 8-speed automatic transmission. However, the XLE may have slightly better fuel economy due to its more aerodynamic exterior design and lighter weight. The XLE also offers optional all-wheel drive, which is not available on the LE.


Safety Features


The Toyota XLE and LE both come standard with the Toyota Safety Sense suite of advanced safety technologies, including:



  • Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection

  • Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist

  • Automatic High Beams

  • Dynamic Radar Cruise Control


However, the XLE may offer additional safety features such as blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert that are not standard on the LE.


Pricing and Value


The Toyota XLE typically has a higher starting price than the LE, reflecting its more premium features and amenities. However, the XLE may also hold its value better over time due to its enhanced features and reputation for quality. Ultimately, the choice between the XLE and LE will depend on the individual's priorities and budget.

Why is XLE better than LE?


XLE adds standard features that options or not available on the LE such as standard alloy wheels (opt on LE), automatic climate control (not available on LE), reclining back seats (not available on LE), power passenger seat (not available on LE), etc.



What does LE and XLE mean on Toyota?


Meaning behind common Toyota trim level names
The end result is the LE means Luxury Edition, XLE means Executive Luxury Edition, and SE means Sport Edition. XE bucks the normal trend and actually stands for Extreme Sport Edition. Other common trims include the SR or Sport Rally and the SR5 or Sport Rally 5-speed.



What does the RAV4 XLE have that the LE doesn't?


The RAV4 XLE has a 12W auxiliary outlet for power as well as five USB ports. The RAV4 LE also has a 12V power outlet but only has three USB ports. The Smart Key System with push-button start is available on the XLE model but not the LE model.



Is Toyota XLE or LE better?


The LE is the base Camry model. It is the cheapest one and has the least features but still has the features you would expect in a modern car. The XLE has extra features and also has the 3.5L V6 engine option.



How much should I pay for a Toyota RAV4 XLE?


2023 Toyota RAV4 MSRP and Invoice Price

TrimsMSRPEdmunds Suggested
LE$29,610$27,886
XLE Most Popular$31,120$29,125
XLE Premium$34,010$31,865
Adventure$35,805$33,729



Is XLE better than Limited Toyota?


Yes, the Toyota Highlander Limited is widely considered to be better than a Highlander XLE, simply because it comes with more high-end features and sits higher along the SUV model's trim ladder. For instance, the Limited gets real leather seating surfaces, which are considered better than SofTex leatherette by many.



What is the highest level of Toyota?


Toyota Highlander Platinum
Toyota Highlander Platinum: Often called the best Highlander trim level, the Platinum is the highest-level choice and comes with a panoramic glass roof and Panoramic View Monitor, among other upgrades.



What is the Toyota XLE package?


The XLE Premium package adds LED fog lights, a power liftgate and 19-inch wheels to the exterior to bolster style and functionality. Performance and styling are boosted by a slightly raised suspension.



Is XLE a good trim?


The XLE trim is considered more comfortable. Your hands will appreciate the leather wrapping on the steering wheel, and you can relax in the front seats with their aggressive bolstering and the dual-zone automatic climate control.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.