Toyota Corolla and Prices: Exploring the 2014 Models and Trims

The Toyota Corolla, a long-standing leader in the compact car segment, continued its legacy of value and reliability with the 2014 model year. This iteration brought a dramatically refreshed design and enhanced features, all while maintaining an accessible price point. For those considering a dependable and economical vehicle, understanding the different Toyota Corolla models and their prices is crucial. Let’s delve into what the 2014 Corolla offered.

The 2014 Toyota Corolla was available in four primary grades: L, LE, S, and the fuel-efficient LE Eco. This range was designed to cater to a diverse set of drivers, from those prioritizing essential value to those seeking a more refined and sporty compact car experience.

The base model, the Corolla L, was positioned as an entry-level option with a focus on fundamental features and affordability. Starting at an MSRP of $16,800 with a 6-speed manual transmission and $17,400 for the 4-speed automatic, the Corolla L was packed with standard equipment that defied its price tag. Notable standard features included modern LED lowbeam headlamps with LED daytime running lights, ensuring enhanced visibility and a contemporary aesthetic. Bluetooth connectivity was also standard, catering to the connectivity needs of modern drivers. Safety was also a priority, with Whiplash-Injury-Lessening (WIL) seats for the driver and front passenger, along with eight airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag and a passenger seat cushion airbag. These features underscore Toyota’s commitment to safety and value even in their base models.

Moving up the trim ladder, the Corolla LE was designed to appeal to the core compact car buyer, offering a blend of enhanced features and value. With a starting MSRP of $18,300, only slightly above the previous year’s model, the LE trim added a host of convenience and comfort features. These included a backup monitor, which is invaluable for parking and maneuvering in tight spaces, and climate control for maintaining a comfortable cabin temperature. Cruise control was also standard for relaxed highway driving, along with keyless entry for added convenience. The Entune Audio system, featuring a 6.1-inch touchscreen, provided infotainment capabilities. Crucially, the LE model benefited from improved fuel economy thanks to the new CVTi-S transmission, making it an even more practical choice for daily driving.

For drivers seeking a more dynamic and visually striking Corolla, the S trim was the answer. Priced at $19,000, a reduction from the outgoing model year, the Corolla S delivered a sportier aesthetic and driving feel. Exterior enhancements included an aggressive lower front grille with a piano black finish and chrome surround, giving it a more assertive road presence. The Corolla S also featured unique suspension tuning, particularly when equipped with the available 17-inch wheel package, enhancing handling. For those opting for the CVTi-S transmission, paddle shifters were available to simulate sequential 7-speed gear changes, offering a more engaging driving experience. Inside, the Corolla S boasted a sport cluster gauge with a TFT meter, an ornate piano black instrument panel, supportive sport seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, all contributing to a sportier cabin ambiance.

The 2014 Corolla lineup also introduced the LE Eco trim, specifically engineered for enhanced fuel efficiency. Starting at $18,700, the LE Eco model was powered by a 140-horsepower Valvematic-equipped engine and incorporated aerodynamic improvements and unique CVTi-S tuning to maximize gas mileage. The Corolla LE Eco achieved an impressive EPA rating of 42 mpg on the highway, making it a leader in its class for highway fuel economy among automatic transmission vehicles, excluding hybrids, electric vehicles, and diesels. This made it an ideal choice for environmentally conscious drivers and those looking to minimize fuel costs.

Expanding the model range further, Toyota introduced “Plus” and “Premium” sub-grades for the LE, S, and LE Eco trims. The Plus models added alloy wheels and specific convenience features as standard, while the Premium models further enhanced the offering with alloy wheels and Softex seats. These additions provided customers with more granular choices to tailor their Corolla to their specific preferences and budgets.

For a comprehensive overview, the table below outlines the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for the various 2014 Toyota Corolla models and compares them to the 2013 model year pricing:

*Note: The Corolla S Plus with a 6-speed manual transmission included additional standard features such as 17” alloy wheels, moonroof, Entune™ Premium Audio with Navigation and App suite, and Smart Key.

Beyond the trim levels, Toyota offered option packages to further customize the Corolla. The Moonroof Package, priced at $850, added a power tilt/slide moonroof. The Driver’s Convenience Package, for $1510, included Smart Key System with Push Button Start and the Entune Premium Audio system with navigation and app suite. These packages were available on Plus and Premium models, excluding the base L and standard S and LE Eco.

In conclusion, the 2014 Toyota Corolla presented a compelling range of models and prices, catering to a broad spectrum of needs and preferences within the compact car market. From the value-driven L model to the sporty S and fuel-efficient LE Eco, and with the addition of Plus and Premium sub-grades, Toyota ensured that the Corolla remained a strong contender, offering renowned quality and a variety of features at attainable prices. For anyone in the market for a reliable, economical, and well-equipped compact car, exploring the 2014 Toyota Corolla and its price points was a worthwhile endeavor.