The 2020 Toyota Corolla is completely redesigned from the ground up. While it has a history of being incredibly reliable and affordable, the past few Corollas scored near the bottom of the pack when it came to driving composure and included features.
A notable new addition to the lengthy lineup of Corolla trims is the first-ever hybrid model. We break down each trim level, including the hybrid offering, so that you know which price level includes which features.
L
The 2020 Toyota Corolla L trim has an incredible starting MSRP of just $19,500. It comes with a 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder engine, which gets up to 30 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. The inside comes with basic features you’d expect in a 2020 car including two USB ports, advanced voice recognition, hands-free phone abilities, and Bluetooth technology. It also comes with an integrated backup camera to make parking and backing out easier.
One of the best things Toyota includes with most of its vehicles is Toyota Safety Sense. This package comes with a Pre-Collision System, which includes pedestrian detection, lane departure alerts with steering assist, forward collision mitigation, automatic high beams, and dynamic radar cruise control.
LE
The 2020 Toyota Corolla LE comes with the same engine and more features. It has a starting MSRP of $19,950. One of the best features of the Corolla LE is the multi-function in-key remote which allows all of your standard key functions as well as keyless entry. There is also a key-in-ignition warning, which will go off if you walk away from the car with the key still in the ignition. This trim also comes with automatic climate control, including a dust and pollen filter. This may be important for those who deal with severe allergies or asthma. This is also the first trim two which buyers can apply additional packages should they so choose.
Hybrid LE
The all-new 2020 Corolla Hybrid LE is the first ever hybrid offering of this Toyota model. It has a starting MSRP of $22,950. The Corolla Hybrid LE has a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine and an electric motor to put out a combined 121 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque. This hybrid is capable of delivering 53 mpg in the city and 52 mpg on the highway. And because it's a traditional hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), there's no need to plug it in for charging.
This model also has the smallest wheels available, a 15-inch package, which is designed to reduce rolling resistance and bump up fuel economy. Other than the wheels and the engine, the Corolla Hybrid LE comes with all of the same features as the regular Corolla LE model.
SE
The 2020 Toyota Corolla SE is a sporty option for those who are looking for a little more flair. The Corolla SE is available with a 6-speed manual transmission, which has a starting MSRP of $22,650. A second model that features a 10-speed automatic CVT starts at a lower MSRP of $21,950. Regardless of which transmission you choose, the Corolla SE has a slightly different exterior from the other Corolla trims. Stylistic, metallic sport side rocker panels run the length of the vehicle. Additionally, there are racing-inspired front fascia, 18-inch wheels, sport seats, and rear spoiler. All of the sport models jump up to a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine.
In both the manual and the automatic Corolla SE models you may notice that the front air intakes on the sides of the grille are larger and more aggressively designed compared to other trim levels. However, in the manual, once you’re behind the wheel, you’ll notice two driving modes: normal and sport. The sport driving mode gives you increased acceleration and Electric Power Assist, which is designed to provide you with more control.
XLE
The 2020 Corolla XLE isn’t a racing-inspired model. Therefore, it makes the transition back to the 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine from less expensive trim levels. The Corolla XLE has a starting MSRP of $23,950. This trim has some great features, which make your Corolla more fun to drive. One of the first things a driver may notice is the addition of a moonroof with power tilt and slide. On the inside, buyers will also find the seats upgraded from fabric to SofTex. This synthetic leather material is easy to clean and resistant to liquids. Another improvement is Entune 3.0 internet access. There are also heated seats in the front of the car for the driver and the passenger. Finally, the Corolla XLE comes with a Smart Key System, which allows for remote engine start.
XSE
Lastly, the 2020 Toyota Corolla XSE is the ultimate sporty option. It has a starting MSRP of $25,450. In many ways, this trim is a combination of the Corolla SE and XLE trims. It comes with the sporty feel of the Corolla SE while including the SofTex synthetic leather from the Corolla XLE. Furthermore, it incorporates the advanced technological features of the Corolla XLE. Drivers will also find Entune 3.0 internet access with optional connected navigation, power-adjustable and heated seating, and the Smart Key System with remote engine start.
(Featured image via Facebook.)
