The Toyota Corolla has long been synonymous with reliability, efficiency, and value. For the 2014 model year, Toyota introduced an all-new Corolla with a dramatically elevated design and enhanced features, while maintaining its legendary affordability. If you’re exploring the cost of a Toyota Corolla, understanding the different trim levels and their respective prices is key to making an informed decision. This article breaks down the pricing and features of the 2014 Toyota Corolla, ensuring you have all the information you need.
2014 Toyota Corolla Trim Levels and Pricing: Finding the Right Value
The 2014 Corolla was offered in four main grades: L, LE, S, and the fuel-efficient LE Eco. Each trim level caters to different needs and preferences, impacting the overall cost of your Toyota Corolla. Let’s delve into each grade to understand what they offer and their starting prices.
Corolla L: Entry-Level 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 is the most budget-friendly option. Despite being the base model, it’s far from basic. The Corolla L comes standard with impressive features, including:
- striking LED lowbeam headlamps with LED daytime running lights,
- convenient Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming,
- Whiplash-Injury-Lessening (WIL) seats for both the driver and front passenger,
- a comprehensive suite of eight airbags, including driver and passenger knee and seat cushion airbags, enhancing safety without inflating the cost of the Toyota Corolla.
This trim is perfect for buyers prioritizing essential features and seeking the lowest possible Toyota Corolla cost.
Corolla LE: Core Comfort and Convenience
The Corolla LE, priced from $18,300, targets the heart of the compact sedan market. For a modest increase in the cost of the Toyota Corolla compared to the L grade, the LE trim adds significant upgrades focused on comfort and convenience. Key standard features of the LE include:
- a backup monitor for safer and easier reversing,
- climate control for comfortable cabin temperatures,
- cruise control for relaxed highway driving,
- keyless entry for added convenience,
- Toyota’s Entune Audio system with a 6.1-inch touchscreen,
- and importantly, improved fuel economy thanks to the new CVTi-S transmission.
The Corolla LE offers a balanced package of features and value, making it a popular choice for those mindful of the cost of a Toyota Corolla but seeking more than just the essentials.
Corolla S: Sporty Style and Features
For those desiring a sportier aesthetic and driving experience, the Corolla S starts at $19,000. Interestingly, this was a price reduction compared to the previous model year, making the sporty trim even more appealing in terms of Toyota Corolla cost. The Corolla S enhances the driving experience with:
- an aggressive front grille with piano black finish and chrome accents,
- unique suspension tuning, especially when equipped with the available 17-inch wheel package,
- optional paddle shifters (with CVTi-S) offering simulated 7-speed gear changes,
- a sport cluster gauge with a TFT multi-information display,
- piano black instrument panel trim,
- supportive sport seats,
- and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
The Corolla S provides a more dynamic feel and appearance without drastically increasing the cost of owning a Toyota Corolla.
Corolla LE Eco: Maximized Fuel Efficiency
The Corolla LE Eco, priced from $18,700, prioritizes fuel economy. It achieves class-leading highway MPG (excluding hybrids, EVs, and diesels with automatic transmissions at the time) thanks to:
- a 140-hp Valvematic-equipped engine optimized for efficiency,
- aerodynamic enhancements to reduce drag,
- and unique CVTi-S transmission tuning focused on fuel conservation.
If fuel efficiency is a top priority and you’re conscious of the long-term cost of running a Toyota Corolla, the LE Eco is an excellent choice.
Exploring Elevated Models: Plus and Premium
Beyond the core grades, Toyota offered “Plus” and “Premium” models for the LE, S, and LE Eco trims. These packages added alloy wheels and further upgraded features as standard equipment, slightly increasing the Toyota Corolla cost but offering enhanced value through bundled options.
- Plus Models: Added alloy wheels and integrated fog lights to the base trim features.
- Premium Models: Included alloy wheels, integrated fog lights, and Softex synthetic leather seats.
These sub-trims allowed buyers to further customize their Corolla to match their desired feature set and budget, impacting the final cost of their Toyota Corolla.
Detailed 2014 Toyota Corolla Pricing Breakdown
To give a comprehensive view of the cost of a 2014 Toyota Corolla across all configurations, here’s a detailed table outlining the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for each grade and transmission option compared to the previous model year:
| Grade | Transmission | 2014 MSRP | 2013 MSRP | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| L | 6MT | $16,800 | $16,230 | $570 |
| L | 4AT | $17,400 | $17,060 | $340 |
| LE | CVTi-S | $18,300 | $18,180 | $120 |
| LE Plus | CVTi-S | $18,700 | – | NA |
| LE Premium | CVTi-S | $19,400 | – | NA |
| S | CVTi-S | $19,000 | $19,060 | -$60 |
| S Plus | CVTi-S | $19,700 | – | NA |
| S Premium | CVTi-S | $20,400 | – | NA |
| S Plus | 6MT | $21,300* | $18,230 | $3,070 |
| ECO | CVTi-S | $18,700 | – | NA |
| ECO Plus | CVTi-S | $19,400 | – | NA |
| ECO Premium | CVTi-S | $20,100 | – | NA |
*Note: The Corolla S Plus 6MT model included additional standard features like 17” alloy wheels, moonroof, premium audio with navigation, and Smart Key, justifying its higher price point.
Available Options and Packages to Consider
For those looking to further enhance their Corolla, two main option packages were available on Plus and Premium models, adding to the overall cost of the Toyota Corolla:
- Moonroof Package: A power tilt/slide moonroof for $850.
- Driver’s Convenience Package: Including Smart Key System with push-button start, remote keyless entry, and Entune Premium Audio with navigation and app suite for $1510.
Additionally, the Blizzard Pearl premium paint was offered on LE Eco models for an extra $395, slightly increasing the cost of the Toyota Corolla LE Eco.
Destination, Processing, and Handling Fee
It’s also important to factor in the Destination, Processing, and Handling (DPH) fee, which was set at $810 for passenger cars like the Corolla. This fee is a standard charge that contributes to the final cost of your Toyota Corolla.
Conclusion: Understanding the Value Proposition of the 2014 Toyota Corolla
The 2014 Toyota Corolla offered a range of trim levels and configurations to suit diverse needs and budgets. By understanding the features and pricing of each grade, you can effectively assess the cost of a Toyota Corolla that aligns with your requirements. Whether you prioritize affordability, features, sporty styling, or fuel efficiency, the 2014 Corolla provided compelling options within the compact sedan segment, continuing its legacy of value and reliability. When considering the cost of a Toyota Corolla, remember to weigh the long-term benefits of its reputation for dependability and fuel economy.
