Which Toyota Corolla trim has heated seats?

Heated front seats are most commonly found on the Corolla’s XLE and XSE trims in recent years; lower trims typically do not include them unless a winter or cold-weather package is added. Availability can vary by model year and market.

Heated seats by trim in the current Corolla lineup

The following sections outline where heated seats are typically offered in non-hybrid and hybrid versions of the Corolla. Always confirm with the exact model year’s brochure or configuration page, as features can shift from year to year.

Non-hybrid models

In most recent model years, heated front seats are available on the higher-end trims, with two trims standing out for this feature:

• XLE: Heated front seats are typically available (often standard with leather or SofTex seating, depending on year).


• XSE: Heated front seats are typically available (often standard with premium seating materials).

Note: L, LE, and SE trims generally do not include heated seats as standard across recent years, and may require a special package or be unavailable depending on the exact year.

Hybrid models

For the Corolla Hybrid, heated seats are usually offered on the higher-trim hybrids, mirroring the non-hybrid lineup:

• Corolla Hybrid XLE: Heated front seats are typically available


• Corolla Hybrid XSE: Heated front seats are typically available

As with the standard Corolla, exact availability depends on the model year and the specific package chosen.

Optional packages and market variations

Some model years offered a Cold Weather or Winter Package that adds heated front seats to lower trims or makes them available as a dealer-installed option. Availability of these packages varies by year and market, so check the exact build sheet for the car you’re considering.

• Winter/Cold Weather Package: Adds heated front seats (availability varies by year and market)

In practice, if heated seats are a priority, aim for XLE or XSE trims or verify whether a specific year offers a winter package for the trim you’re considering.

Summary

For most recent Toyota Corolla models in the United States, heated front seats are most commonly found on the XLE and XSE trims, with the Hybrid variants (XLE Hybrid and XSE Hybrid) following the same pattern. Lower trims generally do not include heated seats unless a special package is selected. Always verify the exact year’s features with the dealer or official Toyota brochure, as configurations can change from one model year to the next.

Which Toyota Corolla trim is the best?

The "best" Toyota Corolla trim depends on your priorities: the XSE is best for a sporty and premium feel with features like a sport-tuned suspension and premium audio, while the XLE is best for comfort and technology with a more luxurious interior and advanced tech features. For a balance of performance and upscale amenities, the XSE is the top choice, whereas the XLE prioritizes comfort, luxury, and fuel efficiency, especially in the hybrid version. 
Best for performance and luxury 

• Corolla XSE: Offers the most premium feel with sporty design elements and performance features. 
• Key features: Sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels, premium materials, JBL audio system, and blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. 

Best for comfort and technology 

• Corolla XLE: A more luxurious and convenient option, often considered the most comfortable trim. 
• Key features: SofTex-trimmed heated front seats, power moonroof, larger infotainment screen, and heated front seats. 
• Best Hybrid Option: The Corolla Hybrid XLE is the top-level hybrid trim, combining luxury with excellent fuel efficiency. 

Best for value

• Corolla LE: Provides a great balance of essential features, comfort, and an excellent price point for a reliable daily driver.
• Key features: 8-inch touchscreen, automatic climate control, and additional driver-assist features like Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Assist. 

Best for the enthusiast 

• Corolla SE: Delivers a more engaging driving experience with its sport-tuned suspension and athletic styling. 
• Key features: Sport-tuned independent rear suspension, paddle shifters, and distinctive exterior styling elements. 
• GR Corolla: The high-performance GR Corolla is a separate, more powerful model with a turbocharged engine and standard all-wheel drive, available in trims like Core, Premium, and Premium Plus. 

What Toyota Corolla years to stay away from?

Years to avoid for the Toyota Corolla are primarily from 2000-2003 and 2009, due to significant issues like oil consumption, engine sludge, and automatic transmission failure. Other problematic years include 2001-2008 for oil consumption and airbag issues, and some other model years like 2011, 2012, and 2014, which had various problems with airbags, brakes, or transmissions.
 
Problematic years and issues

• 2000-2003:
  • Engine sludge: Particularly in the 2000-2002 models, caused by poor oil circulation design that can lead to engine failure. 
  • Oil consumption: Models from this period are notorious for high oil usage, linked to worn piston rings. 
  • Automatic transmission failure: The 2003 model is frequently cited for issues with automatic transmissions. 
• 2001-2008:
  • Oil consumption: This generation is known for oil-burning engines. 
  • Airbag issues: Many Corollas from the 2000s are part of the Takata airbag recall, which requires checking if the recall repair has been completed. 
• 2009:
  • Oil consumption: This year also had reports of high oil usage. 
  • Water pump failure: A notable problem that could lead to overheating. 
  • Transmission problems: Reported on this model year as well. 
• 2011-2014:
  • Airbag issues: The 2011 and 2012 models continued to have airbag problems. 
  • Brake and unintended acceleration: Reported on the 2012 model. 
  • AC and engine issues: Some complaints have been reported for 2011 models. 
  • Transmission problems: The 2014 model had early transmission issues that were mostly fixed under warranty. 

What to look for in a used Corolla

• Check recalls: Especially for airbag issues in models from the 2000s and 2010s. 
• Inspect maintenance records: To see if oil changes were performed on time, which can help mitigate engine sludge issues. 
• Consider later models: The 10th and 11th generation Corollas (roughly 2014-2019 and beyond) are generally considered more reliable, with the 11th and 12th generations (2020+) being highly reliable, according to Motorhub. 

What is the difference between Corolla LE and XLE and S?

Corolla Trim Levels
The L and LE trims are equipped with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 139 horsepower and 126 lb-ft of torque. The XLE and SE trims have a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque.

Which Corolla has heated seats?

The Toyota Corolla has heated seats available on higher trim levels like the XLE and XSE, with options sometimes extending to the Hybrid LE depending on the model year. Lower trims such as the base LE, SE, and L typically do not have heated seats, though some newer versions of the LE may offer them as standard or with an upgrade. 
Trims with heated seats

• XLE: Standard heated front seats are included on this luxury-oriented trim, often with SofTex® upholstery. 
• XSE: Features heated front seats (and sometimes heated rear seats on certain model years). 
• Hybrid LE: Some model years include SofTex®-trimmed heated front seats. 
• LE (some recent years): Starting with recent model years, heated front seats are available on the LE trim. 

Trims without heated seats 

• SE: This trim does not typically have heated seats.
• L: This base trim does not come with heated seats.