2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback SE Vs. XSE: Which Is Better?
The 2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback comes in a variety of trims—but what, exactly, sets the SE and XSE apart?
Written by Jacqulyn Graber
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
Table of Contents
- Pricing
- Performance
- Fuel efficiency
- Technology
- Reliability
- Interior
- The final word
- How to find cheap car insurance for a Toyota Corolla
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The 2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback is offered in a wide variety of trims, but the SE and XSE offer a sportier performance than their less powerful counterparts. The main difference between the two? The XSE offers some more luxurious features.
When it comes to the 2021 Corolla, you’ve got lots of options. Even once you’ve settled on a hatchback over a sedan and opted for a gas-powered engine, you’ll still have to choose between six different trims. Those interested in a performance-minded engine, however, will go for the SE or XSE.
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Pricing
The price difference between the two trims is about $3,000. The 2021 Corolla SE had a starting MSRP of $23,500, while the upgraded XSE cost around $26,950.
According to Edmunds, this $3,000 difference translates into each vehicle’s 5-year estimated cost of ownership, as well. Interestingly, the XSE is cheaper to insure—Edmunds estimates $4,692 for
Toyota Corolla SE insurance costs
and $4,542 for Toyota Corolla XSE insurance costs
. This is likely because the XSE is equipped with a few more safety features—but we’ll talk more on that later. However, vehicles with higher trims tend to depreciate a bit faster. Thus, the SE has a true cost of ownership of $29,831 over five years, while the XSE’s expenses add up to $32,087 over the same period.
Performance
Both the SE and XSE hatchbacks are powered by a 169-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder that pairs with a CVT or optional six-speed manual. The Corolla’s hybrid powertrain was not available on the hatchback.
This engine is an upgrade to the standard 139-hp 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that powers the 2021 Corolla sedan. Unfortunately, the zestier engine still doesn’t deliver incredibly impressive acceleration.
Still, you’ll find that the vehicle’s handling is steady—especially at higher speeds—and that the ride quality is smooth, even on relatively bumpy roads.
Fuel efficiency
Because they have the same engine and body type, the 2021 hatchback SE and XSE have identical fuel efficiency ratings. Differences only exist between manual and CVT models.
Take a look at the exact fuel efficiency ratings for each trim, paired with each available transmission:
Model | Engine | Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined) |
|---|---|---|
2021 Toyota Corolla SE CVT | 2.0L four-cylinder | 31/40/34 mpg |
2021 Toyota Corolla XSE CVT | 2.0L four-cylinder | 31/40/34 mpg |
2021 Toyota Corolla SE Manual | 2.0L four-cylinder | 29/36/32 mpg |
2021 Toyota Corolla XSE Manual | 2.0L four-cylinder | 31/38/33 mpg |
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If fuel efficiency is a primary concern, simply look for an automatic transmission. If you can’t resist a manual vehicle, however, the XSE will save you a little bit of gas compared to the SE.
Technology
Infotainment features are the primary technological differences that set the SE and XSE apart.
While both trims come standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility and offer a subscription-based WiFi hotspot as an upgrade, only the XSE comes with a larger touchscreen, remote keyless ignition, blindspot monitoring, and an upgraded driver information display.
Either model offered an upgraded JBL sound system and wireless charging pad.
In terms of safety-driven tech, Toyota doesn’t disappoint, providing forward collision monitoring, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control as standard features across trims.
Reliability
Unfortunately, experts like J.D. Power, RepairPal, and Consumer Reports don’t offer trim-specific ratings for the Corolla Hatchback.
However, you’ll be happy to know that the 2021 Toyota Corolla receives excellent ratings, in general. For example, RepairPal gives the Corolla a top-notch 4.5/5 overall reliability rating, consistently ranking it #1 amongst 36 compact cars for reliability.
Interior
Here’s where things start to look quite different. The hatchback SE already includes upgrades like ambient interior lighting, dual-zone climate controls, and sport front seats.
However, the XSE takes it up an additional notch with trim-exclusive features like heated and power-adjustable front seats, a standard sunroof, and impressively soft faux leather upholstery.
In terms of space, the measurements are identical:
- Cargo volume: 17.8 cubic feet
- Front headroom: 38.4 inches
- Front leg room: 42.0 inches
- Rear headroom: 37.1 inches
- Read leg room: 29.9 inches
The final word
For a few thousand dollars more, the 2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback XSE offers drivers a much nicer interior, additional infotainment technology, and a few extra safety features. If you have a bit of financial wiggle room, it’s the superior option.
If affordability is key, the Toyota Corolla Hatchback SE still offers some desirable upgrades compared to the base model Corolla.
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How to find cheap car insurance for a Toyota Corolla
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Is a Toyota Corolla Hatchback XSE bigger than a Toyota Corolla Hatchback SE?
No—even though that “X” might make us think “X-tra large,” the SE and XSE have identical exterior and interior measurements.
Which is better on gas, the SE or XSE?
Because these trims have identical engines, opting for either trim won’t affect your fuel economy. What does affect fuel efficiency ratings? Your transmission! Toyota Corolla Hatchbacks with CVT are slightly better on gas than their manual counterparts.
Is the Corolla Hatchback XSE more expensive than the SE?
Yes—you’ll spend about $3,000 more on the XSE trim compared to the SE trim.
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