The 2021 model year of the Toyota Corolla may not look much like the Corolla designs the sedan has evolved through over the last few decades, but the recent design has given rise to a reinvention of what a Corolla can be. Ignoring the hatchback variant of the Corolla, the 2021 Toyota Corolla has 9 trim levels.
Because of the popularity and demand for Toyota hybrid technology, 1 of the 9 trims is a hybrid version of the Corolla. Since that hybrid version simply applies a fuel-efficient powertrain to the existing LE trim, some might consider the Corolla to only have 8 trims as all other features are essentially identical. The chart below reflects each of the trims with the Hybrid LE included in the same like as the gasoline-powered LE. Features shown below may only be available on certain trims.
Trim Level | Feature Highlight 1 | Feature Highlight 2 |
L | Smartphone Compatibility with Alexa and SiriusXM® Satellite Radio Trial | Integrated backup Camera |
LE (Hybrid LE) | Remote Keyless Entry System | Automatic Climate Control |
SE | Normal and Sport Driving Modes | Premium Sport Seats with Sport Fabric Inserts |
SE Nightshade Edition | Black Toyota Emblems and Rear Badges | Blacked-Out 18-Inch Alloy Wheels |
SE Apex Edition | Lowered Sport-Tuned Suspension | Bronze/Black Side Rocker Panels and Interior Bronze Contrast Stitching |
XLE | 7-Inch Color TFT Multi-Information Display | Leather-Trimmed Steering Wheel and SofTex®-Trimmed Heated Front Seats with Sport Fabric Inserts |
XSE | Audio Plus-Includes 8-Inch Touchscreen | Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert |
XSE Apex Edition | Blacked-Out Corolla, Apex and Toyota Badging | Sport Mesh Black Front Grille with Bronze/Black Front Spoiler |
A lot of the 2021 Toyota Corolla trims focus on aesthetics more than anything else. For example, the Nightshade and Apex editions go the extra mile with badging and other accents to make the Corolla look sportier, while trims like the XLE and XSE center their efforts on providing more comfort and quality of life features inside the vehicle. The trims are listed from lowest starting MSRP to highest, so drivers seeking the most affordable option should go for the L right away, and look into the LE/Hybrid LE and SE to see if they can afford the improved technology and convenience features at these levels.