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What is the XLE package on RAV4?

The XLE is Toyota’s mid‑level RAV4 trim, adding comfort and tech upgrades over the base LE and typically sitting below the XLE Premium.


Where the XLE sits in the RAV4 lineup


To understand the XLE, it helps to know its place among the RAV4 trims. It is designed to offer a balanced mix of interior comfort, technology, and convenience features without stepping up to the higher-end luxury touches found on the XLE Premium and other top trims. Availability and exact equipment can vary by model year and market.


The following list outlines features commonly associated with the XLE grade, though specifics can differ by year:



  • SofTex or similar synthetic leather seating on front rows, with fabric used on some rear seats depending on year

  • Power-adjustable driver's seat (often 8‑way) with lumbar support

  • Dual-zone automatic climate control

  • Remote keyless entry and push-button start

  • Alloy wheels in the 17–18 inch range, depending on year

  • Fog lights and LED daytime running lights in many configurations

  • Infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; typically an 8-inch display in recent years

  • Available or standard features such as a power moonroof (variable by year) and a rear liftgate in certain packages

  • Optional all-wheel drive (AWD) across many model years


In practice, the XLE emphasizes comfort and convenience while keeping price lower than the more luxurious XLE Premium and other higher trims.


XLE vs XLE Premium: what changes


Understanding the main differences helps shoppers decide whether the extra cost aligns with their priorities. While both trims share core reliability and practicality, the Premium variant typically adds more upscale materials and convenience touches.



  • Seating materials: XLE often uses SofTex or upgraded fabric, while XLE Premium commonly offers leather or leather‑like seating

  • Interior features: Premium models frequently add a power liftgate as standard or feature it more prominently

  • Lighting and exterior: Premium trims may upgrade to more advanced LED lighting and larger wheels

  • Infotainment: Premium models often include a larger display or navigation as standard


For buyers seeking extra luxury, a higher trim choice like XLE Premium is the typical path. For strong value with solid comfort and tech, XLE remains a popular option.


Shopping tips: how to verify you’re looking at an XLE


Before you buy, confirm the vehicle’s trim on the window sticker and inspect interior and features to ensure you’re getting the XLE grade rather than LE or another trim.



  • Check the trim label on the window sticker: XLE

  • Look for SofTex seating and a power-adjustable driver’s seat

  • Confirm dual-zone climate control and a modern infotainment system (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto)

  • Ask whether a power liftgate, moonroof, or AWD is included in the specific model year


Conversations with sellers or a dealer can help confirm which features are standard versus optional for that year’s XLE.


Summary


The XLE is the RAV4’s mid‑level trim, designed to deliver a comfortable, tech‑forward experience without the premium cost of higher trims. It typically features SofTex seating, a more capable infotainment system, dual-zone climate control, and AWD availability, with variations by year and market. For those wanting leather or extra luxury touches, the XLE Premium is the natural next step.

Is RAV4 XLE better than Limited?


Some key differences between the RAV4 XLE and Limited include: the RAV4 XLE having 17-inch alloy wheels compared to the Limited having 19-inch alloy wheels, the XLE comes with an 8-inch touchscreen compared to the Limited that has a 10.5-inch touchscreen, and the Limited has upgraded features like heated and ventilated ...



What does the Toyota RAV4 XLE package include?


Toyota RAV4 XLE: A Step Up in Comfort and Features
The XLE trim adds a power-adjustable driver's seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and upgraded exterior styling, including 17-inch alloy wheels and roof rails for added versatility. It also includes a larger 8-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system.



Is XLE top of the line?


No, XLE is not the highest trim level. While XLE is a premium, luxury-focused trim, higher trims like Limited and Platinum typically exist above it, offering even more advanced technology and upscale features. 

  • XLE: An "Executive Luxury Edition," it's a mid-to-high level trim that blends refinement and advanced features. 
  • Higher trims: Depending on the specific Toyota model, trims like Limited or Platinum sit at the top of the lineup. 
  • Other trims: Other trims like LE (base) or SE/XSE (sportier) are positioned at different levels in the trim hierarchy. 



Which is better, RAV4 XLE or XLE Premium?


The main differences are that the RAV4 XLE Premium adds a standard power moonroof, Softex synthetic leather-trimmed seats, a larger 19-inch wheel design, and integrated fog lights. It also includes standard features like a power liftgate and remote start via the Toyota app, whereas these are often optional or unavailable on the XLE. The XLE is a more basic trim with cloth seats and smaller 17-inch wheels, but still includes many of the same safety and convenience features. 
You can watch this video to see the visual differences between the XLE and XLE Premium trims: 57sToyota WorldYouTube · Feb 9, 2022
Key feature differences

Feature XLE XLE Premium
Seating Cloth Softex synthetic leather-trimmed
Wheels 17-inch alloy 19-inch multi-spoke alloy
Moonroof No (optional) Standard power tilt/slide
Fog Lights No Integrated
Liftgate No (optional) Standard power
Remote Start No (requires a package) Standard via Toyota app (with Audio Plus)
Steering Wheel Standard Leather-wrapped (standard)
Ambient Lighting No Standard
Parking Assist No Optional front and rear parking assist with automatic braking
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Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

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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.