Find the 2016 Toyota Corolla in a number of available trims, ranging from the reasonably priced L with steel wheels, up to the Special Edition model’s black leather seating and push-button start. For the environmentally conscious, the LE Eco sports a unique driving mode to boost fuel economy.
Key Points
- The 2016 Toyota Corolla comes in five trims: L, LE, LE Eco, S, and Special Edition. However, there are additional configurations (Plus and Premium) offered on all but the base L and Special Edition.
- You’ll want to skip the lightly-equipped Corolla L unless you’re running a tight budget. Step up to the LE, and you get a few more creature comforts like climate control and a backup camera.
- Those looking for a sportier ride should eye for the Corolla S with its Sport driving mode, while the LE Eco is about reducing emissions and saving the environment.
- The 2016 Toyota Corolla’s high-end Special Edition trim offers a unique red and black contrast interior, push-button start, and bespoke 17-inch alloy wheels.
- Ultimately, the LE should be the perfect match for the majority of shoppers, boasting most of the modern must-haves without costing an arm and a leg.
2016 Corolla’s L Trim Comes with Rudimentary Features Like Fabric Seats, Manual A/C, and Steel Wheels
The 2016 Toyota Corolla lineup gets a 1.8L inline-four with either 132 horsepower or 140 horsepower. The latter is only available with a CVT transmission, while the 132-hp version is offered with the choice of a six-speed manual or a four-speed automatic in addition to the CVT.
The range kicks off with the base L model. Features are fairly basic, with things like 15-inch steel wheels and fabric seats as visual highlights. However, you do get power outside mirrors, LED headlights (low beam only), a six-speaker audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a 6.1-inch touchscreen infotainment screen. Power windows on all four corners and speed-sensitive door locks are also available on the Corolla L.
As for safety, the 2016 Corolla offers eight airbags, a collapsible steering column, stability control, traction control, and tire pressure monitoring as standard across the range.
The L model houses the 132 horsepower engine and can be optioned with either a six-speed manual or four-speed auto. CVT is not available on this trim level.
2016 Corolla’s LE Trim Gets Climate Control, while LE Plus and LE Premium Packages Add Features Like Moonroof and Powered Seats
Step up to the LE, and the Corolla becomes less of a basic runabout. Features like heated mirrors, keyless entry, cruise control, and a backup camera are standard. Wheel sizes have gone up by an inch, and a single-zone climate control replaces the base trim’s manual air conditioning.
Unlike the Corolla L, the 132 horsepower engine in the LE trim can only be had with the CVT.
Toyota offers the option of an LE Plus and LE Premium should you find the standard LE a bit low on features. The LE Plus adds 16-inch alloys and foglights, while the Premium offers SofTex upholstery and an eight-way power-adjustable driver seat. Additionally, heated front seats, a power moonroof, a smart key with a push-button start, and an upgraded Entune audio system are also available on the LE Premium.
2016 Corolla LE Eco is about Saving the Environment, Showcases Unique Driving Mode, Remains Largely Identical to LE
The 132 horsepower engine is replaced with the 140 horsepower 1.8L inline-four. Per Toyota, the Corolla LE Eco is rated a ULEV-II (Ultra Low Emission Vehicle) and falls under California’s LEV III exhaust emission standards.
The Eco-friendly model makes do with a rear spoiler and splashes of chrome for enhanced aesthetics. A noticeable difference on the inside would be the available ECO driving mode. The rest of the trim is identical to the LE apart from the wheels. The LE Eco gets 15-inch steel wheels versus the 16-inches found in the Corolla LE.
LE Eco Plus and Premium configurations are available as well. Aside from the ECO driving mode, the available add-ons mirror the LE Plus and LE Premium.
2016 Corolla’s S Trim is for Spirited Driving, Offers Sporty Seat Bolsters and Paddle Shifters
Toyota positioned the S trim to be the sportiest in the lineup. All S models get a Sport driving mode with paddle shifters, leather-trimmed steering wheel, and unique sport instrumentation. Seats are manual on the regular S trim but come with side bolsters and sport fabric inserts.
The engine is the 132 hp version paired to a CVT. However, a six-speed manual is available for an engaging driving experience.
Much of the optional extras on the LE are standard on the Corolla S. Features like fog lights, heated and powered outside mirrors make the S slightly more upmarket.
The Corolla S also comes in Plus and Premium trims. The former adds 17-inch rims and rear disc brakes, while the latter offers a similar feature set as the LE Premium.
2016 Toyota Corolla Special Edition Sports a Black Leather Interior with Red Contrast Stitching, Push-button Start, 17-alloy Wheels
The 2016 Corolla Special Edition is based on the S Plus. Differences are fairly minor, with most of them being aesthetic. On the outside, you get 17-inch alloy wheels along with a Special Edition exterior badge.
Inside, you’ll find bespoke Special Edition floor mats and an all-black interior with red contrast stitching. While Smart Key and push-button start are standard, Toyota offers the Entune premium audio with integrated Sat Nav as an available option.
2016 Corolla’s LE Trim Takes the Cake, Offering the Most Value for Your Dollar
Although the feature-rich and sporty-looking Corolla S is quite an attractive buy, we’d stick with the LE. That said, going for the LE Plus isn’t a bad idea either. Both offer exceptional value, and in the used market, the LE Plus isn’t all that expensive over the regular LE. Kelley Blue Book prices for the 2016 Toyota Corolla LE range between $14,000 and $17,000.
Finding a 2016 Corolla under $13,000 would be fairly difficult, especially considering how well Toyotas hold their value. If you’re running a tight budget, look for a high-mileage Corolla L. It’s a bit down on features, but you’re still getting a robust A-to-B car.
Photos: Toyota
