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XLE vs. S: I cant make up my mind

7.1K views 30 replies 22 participants last post by  hendrix8989  
#1 ·
I'm really torn b/t XLE & S. Seems to me the XLE drove smoother on the HWY. Just cannot decide. Any thoughts?

Thanks
Lit'l Cat

:Bruce:
 
#2 ·
It's weird that the XLE would be nicer on the highway, they both come with the same wheels, tires, springs, struts, steering, etc. Almost all of the differences are cosmetic between the 2 cars, nothing drivetrain related.

Jeff
 
#8 ·
Here are the differences in standard features.

Things the XLE has that the S doesn't:
Variable intermittent wipers
Optitron guages (very cool)
Power windows
Keyless entry w/keyfob
Sliding center console
Woodgrain trim

Things the S has that the XLE doesn't:
Body spoilers
Fog lights
Leather steering wheel with controls
Metallic trim
 
#9 ·
If you do opt for the JBL/bluetooth option on the XLE, you will get the steering wheel mounted audio controls.
 
#18 ·
Yup, and foglights can be added as an accessory. The bodykit is really the only one that you will be missing. Yeah, you can add it later too as an accessory.

I would go with XLE with JBL system. The Corolla is now quiet enough to make good use of the Bluetooth system. Unfortunately, around Houston (TX), i can't find an XLE or S with JBL system. The only one with JBL is the XRS, which i don't want because you lose 5 mpg...and it's a Corolla...i buy Corolla to be fuel efficient.
 
#27 ·
Thanks for all the responses!

2 ?'s: Anyone have an S w/factory leather seats?

Also - do the fog lights make a big difference @ night (seeing the road?)


:Bruce:-L.C.
as the light is described it is for use during days and nights when the road is foggy. without the presence of fog it doesnt do any good to the driver using the car with fog lights.
 
#13 ·
i'm not a fan of the wood grain on the xle...looks cheesy =/ wood and cloth seats? it's usually wood and leather for the "luxury" feel lol. i would choose the s from the two...the fog lights should light up more in front of the car...but more light is better than not enough lights =)
 
#19 ·
Go for the S.

Both cars should drive the same. Drive a different S and compare it. It's the exact same car - just different options. Maybe there was something wrong with the S that you test drove.

I wish that the S came with Optitron guages. :eek::

Thats what the salesman said. Does the XLE come with EPS (electric assist power steering?

Also what are Optitron guages? I truly didnt pay any attention to the diff guages when test driving.

Thanks

:Bruce:Lit'l Cat
 
#20 ·
All Corollas have EPS. The S and XLE use the same EPS system.

The optitron gauges are LED backlit and are lit during the day as well as night to illuminate them. The LE (Canada), XLE (USA) and XRS come with them.

Jeff
 
#21 ·
can anyone post a pic of an XLE next to a S (just so I can see the diff side by side)

Also - thanks for everyone's responses!!!!! now I'm leaning towards the XLE since the fog lites; body moldings can be added later.

BUUUTTT ... I like the feel of the seats & the fabric better in the S.

Do yall think the fabric in the XLE will get filthy - it's such a light color

:Bruce:thanks - Lit'l cat
 
#29 ·
S all the way!! just look at it!!! MPG is better... and S is just cooler! you have blackened headlights... thats just gives it away! haha.. and the body kit... and fogs.. wow! im loving it soooo much!