Choosing between the Toyota RAV4 LE and XLE models isn’t easy. These two options have plenty in common, but there are also some key distinctions to keep in mind.
A few years back, when I was looking to buy an RAV4, I spent ages looking into all the various trim levels. Since I wasn’t interested in all the fancy extras of the higher-end models, I focused my search on the LE and XLE, which are the most basic options available.
In this detailed guide, we’ll break down all the similarities and differences between these two trims, covering everything from features and looks to pricing and beyond.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a much better idea of Toyota RAV4 LE vs XLE and which RAV4 trim suits your needs and preferences the best.
Key Points of Toyota RAV4 LE vs XLE
Let’s delve into the key differences between the Toyota RAV4 LE and XLE models to help you make an informed decision.
WHEELS:
- LE: Comes with sturdy steel wheels adorned with silver 6-spoke wheel covers.
- XLE: Offers sleek alloy wheels featuring a 5-spoke light gray design for added style.
MIRRORS:
- LE: Standard black side mirrors, but you can opt for color-keyed heated mirrors with turn signals and Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM).
- XLE: Standard color-keyed heated side mirrors with turn signals and BSM, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.
LIGHTING:
- LE: Equipped with multi-LED headlights with black bezels and Automatic High Beams (AHB) for improved visibility.
- XLE: Features LED projector headlights with chrome bezels, along with AHB and auto on/off function, ensuring both efficiency and style.
WINDSHIELD WIPERS:
- LE: Offers intermittent windshield wipers, along with an intermittent rear window wiper.
- XLE: Provides variable intermittent windshield wipers and an intermittent rear window wiper, with an optional upgrade to rain-sensing variable intermittent wipers featuring a de-icer function.
EXTERIOR APPEARANCE:
- LE: Boasts a sleek flush roof design.
- XLE: Adds a touch of ruggedness with black low-profile roof rails, perfect for carrying extra gear on your adventures.
TECHNOLOGY FEATURES:
- LE: Manual rear liftgate for easy access to the cargo area.
- XLE: Features a height-adjustable, powered rear liftgate for added convenience.
- LE: No moonroof option available.
- XLE: Offers a power tilt/slide moonroof with one-touch open and close functionality, allowing you to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air effortlessly.
INTERIOR COLORS:
- LE: Comes in black or Nutmeg fabric interior options.
- XLE: Offers a choice of Ash, Black, or Nutmeg fabric interiors, allowing you to customize your cabin to your liking.
SEATS:
- LE: Features comfortable fabric-trimmed seats with a 6-way adjustable driver’s seat.
- XLE: Enhances comfort with fabric-trimmed seats featuring embossed polygonal-design seat inserts and an 8-way power-adjustable front driver’s seat with lumbar support.
CLIMATE CONTROLS:
- LE: Basic climate control system.
- XLE: Upgrades to a dual-zone climate control system, allowing both the driver and passenger to set their preferred temperature settings for maximum comfort.
KEY SYSTEMS:
- LE: Equipped with remote keyless entry for easy access.
- XLE: Offers an optional upgrade to remote keyless entry with a smart key system and push-button start, adding a touch of convenience to your daily routine.
PRICING:
- LE: Starts at $27,575, making it an affordable option for budget-conscious buyers.
- XLE: Begins at $29,085, offering additional features and upgrades for those willing to invest a bit more for enhanced comfort and convenience.
Exterior of Toyota RAV4 LE and XLE
Let’s dissect the exterior features of the Toyota RAV4 LE and XLE to help you understand their similarities and differences.
SIMILARITIES:
Both the LE and XLE boast some common exterior attributes, including:
- A generous ground clearance of 8.4 inches, ensures smooth rides even on rough terrains.
- Available in five stunning color options: Magnetic Gray Metallic, Silver Sky Metallic, Ice Cap, Midnight Black Metallic, and Ruby Flare Pearl.
- Equipped with LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) for enhanced visibility and safety.
- Enjoy privacy glass on all liftgates, rear side, and quarter windows for added comfort and privacy.
- Features aerodynamic underbody panels with vortex generators, as well as front and rear wheel spats, optimizing fuel efficiency and performance.
- Sporting an integrated rear spoiler and dual chrome-tipped exhaust, adding a touch of sportiness to the exterior.
- Boasts a stylish black hexagon bar front grille and LED taillights for a sleek look.
- Includes a color-keyed shark-fin antenna mounted on the roof for improved radio reception.
Both the LE and XLE offer an array of impressive exterior features, catering to different tastes and preferences. You should also know about the Toyota RAV4 remote start.
DIFFERENCES:
Now, let’s delve into the distinctions between the LE and XLE trims regarding their exterior attributes:
COLORS:
- The XLE offers two additional eye-catching exterior paint options: Lunar Rock and Blueprint, expanding your color choices.
- Lunar Rock and Blueprint add a dash of uniqueness to the XLE, making it a standout choice for those who value individuality.
WHEELS:
- While both models come with 17″ wheels, the LE features steel wheels with silver 6-spoke wheel covers, while the XLE boasts alloy wheels with a sleek 5-spoke light gray design.
- The XLE’s alloy wheels are undoubtedly a style upgrade over the LE’s steel wheels, offering a more refined and modern appearance.
SIDE MIRRORS:
- The LE comes with standard black side mirrors, with the option to upgrade to color-keyed heated mirrors with turn signals and blind spot monitoring (BSM).
- In contrast, the XLE comes standard with color-keyed heated side mirrors featuring turn signals and BSM, adding both functionality and sophistication to the exterior.
HEADLIGHTS:
- Both models feature LED headlights, but there are differences in their design and functionality.
- The LE comes with multi-LED headlights with black bezels and Automatic High Beams (AHB), while the XLE boasts LED projector headlights with chrome bezels, along with AHB and auto on/off function.
- The XLE’s headlights offer a futuristic appearance and added convenience with the auto on/off feature, making it a compelling choice for those who prioritize style and functionality.
DOOR HANDLES:
- Both models feature color-keyed outside door handles, but the XLE adds a touch-sensor lock/unlock feature on the front doors.
- The touch-sensing lock/unlock feature on the XLE enhances convenience, allowing you to unlock the doors without taking the key out of your pocket.
WINDSHIELD WIPERS:
- The LE comes with intermittent windshield wipers, while the XLE offers variable intermittent windshield wipers as standard.
- Additionally, the XLE offers available rain-sensing variable intermittent windshield wipers with a de-icer function, providing added convenience and safety in inclement weather.
OTHER:
- The XLE comes standard with low-profile black roof rails, providing additional utility and style compared to the LE.
- Furthermore, the XLE boasts a height-adjustable power liftgate with jam protection and a power tilt/slide moonroof with one-touch open and close, adding luxury and convenience to the exterior.
In summary, while the LE and XLE share some exterior similarities, they also offer distinct features and enhancements, catering to different preferences and lifestyles. Whether you prioritize style, functionality, or convenience, there’s a RAV4 trim for you.
Interior of Toyota RAV4 LE and XLE
Let’s explore the interior features of the Toyota RAV4 LE and XLE to understand what sets them apart and what they have in common.
SIMILARITIES:
Both the RAV4 LE and XLE share several interior features, including:
- Similar interior dimensions, ensure ample space for passengers and cargo.
- Rear liftgate window defogger to maintain visibility during inclement weather.
- LED front-seat reading lights, dome lights, and cargo area lights for enhanced illumination.
- Height-adjustable rear cargo area deck board for flexible storage options.
- Two front and two rear bottle holders, as well as two front and two rear cup holders for added convenience.
- Day/night rearview mirror, allowing you to adjust brightness according to your preference.
These shared interior features provide comfort, convenience, and functionality, making both trims appealing choices.
DIFFERENCES:
Now, let’s explore the differences between the interior of the RAV4 LE and XLE:
COLORS:
- The LE is available in Black or Nutmeg fabric interior options, while the XLE offers Ash, Black, or Nutmeg fabric interiors.
- The XLE’s unique Ash interior adds a touch of sophistication and distinction, appealing to those seeking a more stylish cabin ambiance.
SEATS:
- The LE features fabric-trimmed seats with a 6-way adjustable front driver’s seat and a 4-way adjustable front passenger seat.
- In contrast, the XLE boasts fabric-trimmed seats with embossed polygonal-design seat inserts, an 8-way power-adjustable front driver’s seat with lumbar support, and a 4-way adjustable front passenger seat.
- The XLE’s seats offer superior comfort and support, especially with the lumbar support feature, providing a more enjoyable driving experience.
CLIMATE CONTROLS:
- The LE comes with standard basic climate control settings, while the XLE offers dual-zone climate control.
- The XLE’s dual-zone climate control allows for individual temperature preferences for the driver and passenger, though it may require more adjustments compared to the LE’s simpler climate control system.
KEY SYSTEMS:
- The RAV4 LE includes remote keyless entry but lacks a push-button start with a smart key.
- In contrast, the XLE offers a smart key system with push-button start as an available option.
- The smart key system in the XLE adds convenience by allowing you to unlock and start the vehicle without removing the key from your pocket or bag, though some may have security concerns about keyless car theft.
These differences in interior features cater to various preferences and priorities, ensuring there’s an RAV4 trim to suit your needs. Whether you prioritize comfort, style, or convenience, both the LE and XLE offer compelling options.
Safety and Tech
Let’s explore the safety, technology, and value aspects of the Toyota RAV4 LE and XLE to help you make an informed decision.
In terms of safety and technology, both the RAV4 LE and XLE offer impressive features, ensuring a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
SIMILARITIES:
Both trims come equipped with:
- An 8″ multimedia display for easy access to entertainment and navigation.
- A 6-speaker sound system for an immersive audio experience.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto compatibility, allowing seamless smartphone integration.
- SiriusXM® with a 3-month trial subscription for a variety of entertainment options.
While both trims offer comprehensive safety features, including the Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5 system and the Star Safety Package, it’s worth noting that the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Lane Tracing Assist are valuable additions, enhancing safety and convenience.
DIFFERENCES:
The primary safety difference between the LE and XLE lies in the availability of Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert system. While these features are optional for the LE, they come standard with the XLE trim, providing additional safety benefits without extra cost.
Considering the importance of blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert in enhancing awareness and preventing accidents, opting for the XLE trim might be worth the investment for added peace of mind on the road.
PRICE AND VALUE:
When it comes to pricing and value, both the RAV4 LE and XLE offer competitive pricing with significant value-added features.
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 pricing reflects a reasonable increase, with the following MSRP:
- LE: $27,575
- XLE: $29,085
For a price difference of $1,510, opting for the XLE trim provides several additional features, including:
- Additional exterior and interior color options for customization.
- Turn signal and blind spot warning indicators for enhanced safety.
- Push-button starts with a smart key for added convenience.
- Dual-zone climate control for personalized comfort.
- Low-profile black roof rails and cargo area tonneau cover for increased utility.
- Standard Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert system for enhanced safety awareness.
Considering these added features and the relatively modest price difference, upgrading to the XLE trim offers excellent value for those seeking enhanced safety, convenience, and customization options.
Ultimately, weighing the features and price difference can help you determine which trim best aligns with your preferences and budget.
Which Should You Choose?
Deciding between the 2023 RAV4 LE and XLE comes down to what you value and need in your vehicle.
The XLE offers some additional features for an extra $1,510. These include more color options for both the exterior and interior, as well as some enhanced exterior features. Inside, there’s not much difference in connectivity and entertainment features between the two trims, but there are some slight variations in safety features. Plus, the XLE offers optional packages not available with the LE, allowing for more customization to suit individual preferences.
Given these perks, if you’re someone who appreciates these added features, the XLE might be the better choice for you. The price difference isn’t substantial, but the extras could make a big difference in your driving experience.
However, if you’re looking to save some money and don’t necessarily need those extra features, the RAV4 LE is still a solid option. It’s a dependable choice that meets basic driving needs without breaking the bank.
In my case, I opted for the LE because I didn’t prioritize the extra features. However, I did choose to add the Blind Spot Monitor and rubber floor mats for added convenience and safety. Ultimately, it’s about finding the right balance between your budget and your needs when choosing between these two trims.
Key Differences
Let’s compare the 2024 Toyota RAV4 LE and XLE trims to see what sets them apart:
2024 Toyota RAV4 LE:
- Standard Engine: 2.5L I4
- Horsepower: 203 hp
- MPG (city/hwy): 28 / 39
- Seats: 5
- Keyless Ignition: Not available
- Towing Capacity: 1,500 lb
- Wheel Material: Steel
- Heated Seats: Not available
- Sunroof: Not available
2024 Toyota RAV4 XLE:
- Standard Engine: 2.0L I4
- Horsepower: 203 hp
- MPG (city/hwy): 32 / 41
- Seats: 5
- Keyless Ignition: Standard
- Towing Capacity: 1,500 lb
- Wheel Material: Aluminum
- Heated Seats: Optional
- Sunroof: Optional
One notable difference is in the engine size and fuel efficiency. The LE comes with a 2.5L I4 engine, while the XLE has a 2.0L I4 engine. Despite the smaller engine, the XLE offers better fuel economy with an impressive 32 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway, compared to the LE’s 28 mpg city and 39 mpg highway.
Another difference is in the keyless ignition feature. The XLE comes standard with keyless ignition, making it more convenient to start the vehicle compared to the LE, where this feature is not available.
Additionally, the XLE offers optional heated seats and a sunroof, providing added comfort and luxury options that are not available on the LE trim.
Overall, while both trims offer similar towing capacity and seating capacity, the XLE provides some extra features and better fuel efficiency, making it a compelling choice for those seeking additional comfort and convenience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the Toyota RAV4 LE and XLE both offer reliable performance and seating for five, the XLE stands out with its enhanced fuel efficiency, optional features like heated seats and a sunroof, and standard keyless ignition. For those who prioritize comfort and convenience, the XLE trim may be the preferable choice despite the slight price increase, offering additional value and amenities for a more enjoyable driving experience.
