Toyota Corolla LE vs SE: Battle of the Trims

The 2027 Toyota Corolla is here at Toyota of North Charlotte! This sedan offers tons of value at an affordable price, making it one of the most popular cars on the market today. We’re here to tell you about the differences between the 2027 Corolla LE vs SE, the first two trims in the Corolla lineup. Learn about what sets these models apart from each other, then shop our new Corolla inventory online.

Key Points

• The Toyota Corolla LE starts at a slightly lower MSRP than the SE.
• The trims share an efficient engine and get very similar miles per gallon.
• The SE comes with sportier interior and exterior features and can be equipped with more optional upgrades.
• Both Toyota Corolla trims are available now at Toyota of North Charlotte in Huntersville, NC.

Toyota Corolla LE Price

The Toyota Corolla LE is the base trim, starting at just $23,325.* Even at this low price, the LE is full of features for safer and more enjoyable driving.

Toyota Corolla SE 

This ride has a starting MSRP of $25,765.* For this slightly higher price, you’ll get an upgraded interior and more features you’ll love.

Toyota Corolla SE vs LE: Breakdown 

Now, it’s time to get into the breakdown to see exactly where these models differ from each other.

Performance 

Let’s consider the Toyota Corolla SE vs LE powertrains. Both trims offer a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, but they get slightly different gas mileage.

• Toyota Corolla LE mpg: 32 city/41 highway^
• Toyota Corolla SE mpg: 31 city/40 highway^

These numbers are so similar that you can choose either trim and expect excellent efficiency. This adds to the lifetime savings that come with owning a Corolla, since you won’t have to stop at the pump as often when you’re driving this car. Both the LE and SE come in hybrid versions for even better efficiency; they are more expensive but offer additional features in addition to their hybrid powertrains.

Cabins

There are major differences inside the cabins of the Toyota Corolla LE and SE. Both of these Toyota sedans seat up to 5 people, have fabric seats, and are super comfortable. However, here’s where the two trims differ!

• The Toyota Corolla SE offers sport seats with sport fabric inserts; the LE has regular fabric-trimmed seats.
• Both trims offer a  6-way adjustable driver’s seat and a 4-way adjustable front passenger seat.
• The LE trim offers a basic steering wheel, while the SE offers a leather-trimmed steering wheel.

Tech

Both of these options have great tech options, but the SE gives you more chances to upgrade.

• Both the LE and SE come with a standard 8-inch touchscreen in the center console.
• Both models offer packages that include a wireless charging pad for an additional price.
• You can add an optional package to the SE that upgrades the touchscreen to be 10.5 inches, making everything bigger and easier to access. This package also upgrades the digital gauge cluster to be 12.3 inches. This package can’t be added to the LE.
• Both models come with six speakers and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.

Style

Next, we’re moving into the style!

• Both of these options offer alloy wheels: 16-inch wheels on the LE, 18-inch wheels on the SE.
• Both models come with LED lights.
• The SE trim has a single exhaust with dual chrome tips and a color-keyed rear spoiler for extra flair.
• The SE can also be customized with two-tone exterior paint (not available on the LE).
• The SE trim offers an optional power moonroof and heated power outside mirrors. This helps with those cold nights (or days).

Safety 

Finally, it’s time to get into the safety of the Toyota Corolla LE vs SE!

• Both of these trims come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 which includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection and proactive driving assist.
• Additionally, they offer ten airbags, a LATCH system, a tire pressure monitoring system, and hill start assist control.
• However, there are some differences between the Toyota Corolla LE vs SE. The Smart Key System is an optional feature on the LE, while it’s standard on the SE.

Stop by Toyota of N Charlotte! 

Want to compare the Toyota Corolla LE vs SE in person? Stop by Toyota of N Charlotte today for a test drive! Just take exit 23 off I-77 in Huntersville. Both models come with our complimentary Lifetime Warranty and ToyotaCare, so you’ll win no matter which trim you choose!

*Starting MSRP is the lowest Base MSRP for the series of a model and excludes manufacturer, distributor and dealer options, taxes, title and license and dealer fees and charges. Also excludes the Delivery, Processing and Handling of $1,295 for Cars (Corolla, Corolla HV, Corolla HB, GR Corolla, Camry, Prius, Prius Plug-in Hybrid, Toyota Crown, Mirai, GR86, GR Supra), $1,595 for Entry SUV (Corolla Cross, Corolla Cross HV), $1,595 for Small SUV (RAV4, RAV4 HV, RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid, bZ, bZ Woodland, C-HR), $1,595 for Mid SUV/Van (4Runner, 4Runner HV, Highlander, Highlander HV, Grand Highlander, Grand Highlander HV, Sienna, Land Cruiser, Toyota Crown Signia), $1,745 for Midsize Pickup (Tacoma, Tacoma HV), $2,195 for Large Pickup/Large SUV (Tundra, Tundra HV, Sequoia). (Historically, vehicle manufacturers and distributors have charged a separate fee for processing, handling and delivering vehicles to dealerships. Toyota’s charge for these services is called “Delivery, Processing and Handling” and is based on the value of the processing, handling and delivery services Toyota provides as well as Toyota’s overall pricing structure and may be subject to change at any time. Toyota may make a profit on Delivery, Processing and Handling.) Delivery, Processing and Handling in AL, AR, FL, GA, LA, MS, NC, OK, SC and TX may vary. Dealer price will vary.

^EPA-estimated 32 city/41 hwy/35 combined mpg rating for 2027 Corolla LE; EPA-estimated 31 city/40 hwy/34 combined mpg rating for 2027 Corolla SE; EPA-estimated 31 city/38 hwy/34 combined mpg rating for 2027 Corolla XSE; EPA-estimated 53 city/46 hwy/50 combined mpg rating for 2027 Corolla Hybrid LE and Hybrid XLE; EPA-estimated 51 city/44 hwy/48 combined mpg rating for 2027 Corolla Hybrid LE AWD; EPA-estimated 50 city/43 hwy/47 combined mpg rating for 2027 Corolla Hybrid SE and 60th Anniversary; EPA-estimated 47 city/41 hwy/44 combined mpg rating for 2027 Corolla Hybrid SE AWD. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle’s condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.