What is the trim on a Toyota Corolla?

The trim of a Toyota Corolla refers to the equipment level and feature package that comes with the car; the model is offered in multiple trims to suit different budgets and preferences.

In practice, trim names indicate what comes standard and what can be added. For current model years, the gas-powered Corolla lineup typically includes L, LE, SE, XLE and XSE, while Hybrid variants carry similar naming schemes (for example, LE Hybrid, SE Hybrid, and XLE Hybrid). Availability and exact feature sets can vary by year and market.

Gas-powered Corolla trims

Below is a guide to the common gas-powered trim levels you’ll encounter on Corolla sedans and hatchbacks, along with the general differences you can expect between them.

• L — base trim with essential features and an affordable starting price.


• LE — adds more comfort and convenience features, with upgraded infotainment options and additional content over L.


• SE — sport-oriented styling and handling, larger wheels, and interior accents aimed at a more dynamic feel.


• XLE — premium interior and comfort features, plus extra safety and convenience equipment.


• XSE — top-tier sport-oriented trim with distinctive styling and extra feature content beyond SE/XLE.

Prices and exact feature sets vary by year and market, so consult the latest Toyota brochure or dealer configuration to confirm what each trim includes for your region and model year.

Hybrid Corolla trims

The Corolla Hybrid lineup mirrors the gas trims in naming but centers on fuel-efficiency and hybrid-specific equipment. The following outlines the typical hybrid trims and how they differ.

• LE Hybrid — base hybrid with strong efficiency and standard safety features; focuses on value.


• SE Hybrid — sportier appearance and driving feel with hybrid efficiency advantages.


• XLE Hybrid — premium interior and comfort features paired with hybrid technology.


• XSE Hybrid — higher-end hybrid with sport styling and additional content; availability varies by year.

As with gas models, exact trim names and features can change over model years and by market. Always verify with official Toyota materials or a local dealer for your specific year and region.

How to confirm your trim

To confirm which trim your Corolla is, check the Monroney window sticker on the vehicle, which lists the trim name and configured options. The door jamb placard and the VIN can also help identify the exact trim level and features. If you’re buying used, the Vehicle History Report or a dealer’s build sheet can provide definitive confirmation.

Summary

In Toyota terminology, the “trim” of a Corolla is the equipment level that defines what features, materials, and styling come with the car. The Corolla’s lineup typically includes several gas-powered trims (L, LE, SE, XLE, XSE) and a parallel set of hybrid trims (LE Hybrid, SE Hybrid, XLE Hybrid, with occasional XSE Hybrid availability). Trim choices affect price, comfort, technology, and performance feel, and availability varies by year and market. Always check the latest official specs for your specific model year to choose the right trim for you.

Is Corolla LE or SE better?

The SE's transmission and power as well as power delivery are noticeably better. It's easier on gas too. I've set the cruise control at 130 km/h (Canada) (81 mph), and it gets 39 mpg (US gallons) at that speed, which is significantly better than the 1.8 in the LE.

What does le se and xle mean?

SE is for Special Edition; LE for Limited Edition and XLE for Extreme Limited Edition; and S for Sedan. Many manufacturers give such designations to models that offer different types of luxuries or sports models.

What are the Toyota trim levels in order?

Toyota trim levels generally follow a hierarchy from entry-level to top-tier luxury or performance, which can be understood as an order from base to premium: L/LE (entry-level) -> SE (sport) -> XLE (mid-luxury) -> XSE (sport-luxury) -> Limited (premium) -> Platinum/Capstone (top-of-the-line). However, specific trims like SR/SR5 (for trucks/SUVs) and TRD (for off-road/performance) are also common. The exact order and available trims vary significantly by model and year. 
General hierarchy of Toyota trim levels

• L / LE: Entry-level trims with essential features. 
• SE: Sportier styling and often includes sport-tuned suspensions. 
• XLE: Mid-tier trim with more luxury features like leather seating and premium audio. 
• XSE: Combines a sporty edge with upscale features, sitting above XLE. 
• Limited: A premium trim that often includes advanced technology and upscale finishes. 
• Platinum / Capstone: The highest-end, top-of-the-line luxury trim available. 

Other common trims

• SR / SR5: Base to mid-level trims typically found on trucks and SUVs. 
• TRD (Toyota Racing Development): Off-road or performance-focused trims, such as TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and TRD Pro. 
• Nightshade: A trim with a blacked-out, bold design theme. 

Important considerations

• Model variation: The specific trim levels and their order are not universal and differ between models. For example, a Camry's hierarchy is different from a 4Runner's, and a RAV4 Hybrid has its own set of trims. 
• Hybrid and Performance: Hybrid and performance-oriented models will have their own dedicated trims, often incorporating "Hybrid," "TRD," or "GR" (Gazoo Racing) into their names. 
• Year variation: Trim names and their position in the lineup can change from one model year to the next. 

What are Toyota Corolla trims?

The Toyota Corolla has several trim levels, with recent models typically including the LE, SE, and XSE, along with hybrid options like the Hybrid LE, Hybrid SE, and Hybrid XLE. Some recent model years also feature a special FX edition. Generally, trims progress from entry-level features (LE) to sportier (SE) and more upscale options (XSE, XLE).
 
This video explains the features of different 2025 Toyota Corolla trims: 1mBen’s Car ReviewsYouTube · Nov 3, 2024
Gas-powered trim levels 

• LE: This is typically the entry-level trim, focusing on essential features. 
• SE: The SE trim offers a sportier feel with features like sport seats and unique styling. 
• FX: A special edition trim that may have unique styling cues. 
• XSE: The top-tier gas model, which includes more upscale features beyond the SE. 

Hybrid trim levels

• Hybrid LE: A hybrid version of the entry-level trim.
• Hybrid SE: A sportier hybrid option.
• Hybrid XLE: An upscale hybrid trim that offers premium features.