What is the difference between Toyota Yaris L and LE?
The LE is the higher trim and typically adds more standard features over the base L. The exact equipment varies by model year and market, but you can usually expect upgrades in convenience, tech, and wheels when moving from L to LE.
This article breaks down what distinguishes the two trims, what stays the same, and how to decide which configuration best fits your needs and budget.
What You Get With Each Trim
Below is a quick comparison of the features that commonly differentiate L from LE. Note that exact equipment can vary by year and region, so always verify with the dealer or the vehicle’s window sticker.
- Power features: LE typically adds power windows and power door locks, while L often uses manual controls.
- Entry and convenience: LE commonly includes remote keyless entry; L may rely on manual entry depending on the market.
- Driver aids and cruise: LE usually offers cruise control as standard or more readily available, whereas L may omit it or offer it as an option.
- Infotainment and connectivity: LE generally features a larger touchscreen and smartphone integration (such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) compared with the base display on L.
- Wheels and styling: LE more often comes with alloy wheels or upgraded wheel options, while L typically rides on steel wheels with hubcaps or basic rims.
- Interior and climate: LE tends to have upgraded upholstery and, in some years, automatic climate control, while L may have simpler cloth and manual air settings.
In short, the LE focuses on convenience, tech, and a slightly nicer feel inside and out, while the L emphasizes value and essential functionality. Always confirm the exact spec sheet for the year and market you’re considering.
Performance and Safety: How Much Stays the Same
The core powertrain is generally shared between L and LE for a given market and model year, though transmission options can differ. Most Yaris models pair a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with either a CVT or a manual option in some markets. Fuel economy and overall driving performance are similar across trims, with feature differences mainly centered on equipment rather than core capabilities.
- Powertrain: Same engine family across trims for a given year; transmissions may vary by market (CVT vs. manual).
- Safety: Core safety systems (airbags, stability control, etc.) are common, while higher trims may offer optional or standard advanced driver aids on certain years/markets.
Because safety features and driver-assist packages can differ by year and region, always check the specific vehicle’s equipment list to know exactly what’s included on L vs LE.
Pricing and Value
New-car pricing for the LE is typically a modest premium over the L, reflecting the added equipment. The exact gap varies by year, market, and whether features are bundled or offered as options. In the used-car market, the difference can shrink as depreciation affects older vehicles differently.
- New pricing gap: LE generally costs more than L due to added features.
- Used pricing: The difference may be smaller on older model years and depends on condition and mileage.
For buyers, the decision often comes down to whether the additional convenience, tech, and wheels on LE justify the extra spend, or if the base L provides sufficient value for their needs.
Shopping Tips: How to Compare L vs LE
Use this checklist to ensure you’re comparing apples to apples when evaluating L and LE on the lot or online inventory.
- Review the window sticker or dealer spec sheet for the exact features included on the L and LE for the specific year and market.
- Test the infotainment system, smartphone integration, and steering-wheel controls to confirm what you’ll actually use.
- Check wheel type (alloy vs steel) and any cosmetic upgrades that come with LE.
- Confirm climate control and upholstery options to understand interior comfort differences.
- Ask about safety and driver-assist options and whether any are standard or optional on the LE in your region.
Ultimately, your choice should reflect which features matter most to you and how much you’re willing to pay for them, keeping in mind that exact equipment can shift by year and market.
Summary
For most buyers, the Toyota Yaris LE adds practical value over the base L through enhanced convenience (power features, remote entry), more advanced infotainment, upgraded wheels, and often better interior appointments. Core performance and safety fundamentals remain similar, but the precise feature set depends on the model year and market. Always verify the specific trim details on the exact vehicle you’re considering to ensure the features match your preferences and budget.
What is the difference between Yaris L and SE?
While the base Yaris L's price tag is very attractive, it's worth spending a little more. Consider springing for the SE. The SE includes nicer upholstery, a leather-wrapped shifter and steering wheel, larger wheels and tires, and four-wheel disc brakes.
What is the difference between L-Le and XLE?
L / LE – Entry-level trims with essential features. SE – Sportier styling and handling. Nightshade – Blacked-out design for a bold look. XLE – Luxury-focused mid-tier trim.
What is the difference between the Yaris models?
The Yaris hatchback has a compact, eye-catching design, while the Yaris Cross is larger and taller, with the substantial look of an SUV, sharp lines, and attractive proportions. Both models are available in a range of grades, from Icon and Design to Excel and GR SPORT.
What is the difference between Toyota Yaris 2019 L and LE?
The L is the entry-level trim and comes with 15-inch steel wheels and power accessories. Step up to the LE, and you'll get 16-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, heated side door mirrors, fog lights. This trim also adds keyless entry and LED turn signals. Both the L and LE also have halogen headlights.
