May 5, 2016

2016 Toyota Corolla in Chesapeake, VAOnce you decide the 2016 Toyota Corolla is the car for you, the next step is to choose a trim package. Trim refers to the different feature configurations available for this model. The Corolla offers four main trims designated as the L, LE, LE Eco, and S. The features you get with your new car are based on the trim level you purchase. Learning more about the available trims is a critical part of researching a car before you buy it. Get to know the Toyota Corolla and its trims, so you shop smart when the time comes to purchase.

The Base Model

For the Corolla, the base model is the L series. It comes with the standard features and is the least expensive of the trims. With an L, you get 15-inch steel wheels, power accessories, and air conditioning. The tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel makes the interior more comfortable and roomy. The steering wheel has onboard auxiliary controls as well, for easy access.

The interior provides a six-way adjustable driver’s seat and four-way front passenger seat with a 60/40 split folding rear seat. You have full access to Toyota’s Entune audio system complete with a 6-inch touchscreen, voice controls, six speakers, CD player, and an auxiliary audio jack.

The LE

The next trim level up is the LE model. With the Corolla LE, you buy 16-inch alloy wheels instead of the 15-inch steel ones that come with the standard L. You also add heated mirrors, automatic climate control, and a rearview camera along with keyless entry, cruise control, and metallic cabin accents.

The LE series sports the Toyota Entune Plus audio system that offers satellite and HD radio to the entertainment options, too. You can get the Scout GPS link app that provides smartphone navigation on the Corolla’s touch-screen display.

The LE Eco

The LE Eco upgrades your purchase further by adding a more efficient engine and transmission to the package. This model comes complete with a 132 horsepower and 128 foot-pound torque engine and Toyota’s Valvematic variable valve timing. The Eco provides 15-inch steel wheels as well, but they have low-rolling-resistance tires for more gas efficiency. As an added bonus, the Eco has a rear spoiler and enhanced aerodynamics.

The interior options for the LE Eco are the same as what you get with the LE. If you opt for the LE Premium package, however, you add an eight-way power driver seat, heated front seats and SofTex vinyl upholstery.

The S

The “S” in this trim level stands for “sport.” With this model, you get many of the same features you see in the LE trim, but with some cosmetic upgrades that make the car sportier. They include unique wheel covers, color-keyed mirrors with signal repeaters, a chrome exhaust tip, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, sports instrumentation, and a trip computer. A rear spoiler is standard with this trim, too.

Deciding on a Toyota Corolla doesn’t mean you finish making choices. Figure out what features best suit your needs and then pick the trim level that has them.

Photo by katerha | Licensed under cc BY 2.0