The 2023 Toyota Corolla XSE marks a significant leap forward for the popular compact sedan, bringing a suite of updates that enhance its technology, safety features, and overall style. This model year isn’t just a refresh; it’s a substantial upgrade that positions the Corolla XSE as a more compelling option in a competitive market. While Toyota has expanded the Corolla lineup with new hybrid options, the gas-powered XSE trim stands out with its sporty demeanor and enhanced features, offering a dynamic driving experience without sacrificing the Corolla’s renowned reliability and efficiency.
Exterior Styling: Sporty and Refined
The 2023 Corolla XSE makes a bold statement with its exterior enhancements. Sharing sporty design cues with the SE trim, the XSE boasts a gloss black mesh-pattern lower grille and a more aggressively sculpted front fascia. These changes immediately give the XSE a more assertive and modern road presence. Adding to the sporty aesthetic is a new rear sport diffuser, gray metallic sport rocker trim, smoked LED taillights, and a dark gray rear spoiler. The dual chrome exhaust tips further emphasize the XSE’s performance-oriented styling.
2023 Toyota Corolla XSE front exterior design with sporty grille and headlights
The redesigned LED headlights, shared with the SE trim, are particularly striking, designed to mimic the sharp gaze of a bird of prey. These not only enhance the visual appeal but also improve nighttime visibility. Completing the exterior transformation are new 18-inch Gloss Graphite-colored alloy wheels, exclusive to the XSE and SE, adding a touch of sophistication and sportiness to the vehicle’s profile. Furthermore, all 2023 Corolla models now feature daytime LED running lights, enhancing safety and visibility across the range.
Powertrain and Performance: Efficient and Engaging
Under the hood, the 2023 Corolla XSE, along with the entire gas-only Corolla lineup, is powered by a responsive 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers a capable 169 horsepower, striking a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency, perfectly suited for daily driving and spirited weekend excursions. Mated to this engine is a continuously variable transmission (CVT), engineered by Toyota to feel more engaging than traditional CVTs. Toyota has cleverly incorporated a “first gear” in the CVT to provide quicker off-the-line acceleration, addressing a common critique of CVT transmissions. The inclusion of stop/start technology further contributes to fuel conservation, particularly in city driving conditions.
Interior Design and Comfort: Premium Touches
Stepping inside the 2023 Toyota Corolla XSE reveals an interior that blends comfort with premium styling. Soft-touch materials are immediately apparent throughout the cabin, complemented by glossy black and matte accents, creating a sophisticated ambiance. Metallic trim and chrome interior door handles add further upscale touches.
2023 Toyota Corolla XSE SofTex-trimmed heated front sport seats with red stitching
The SofTex®-trimmed heated front sport seats are a highlight, featuring comfortable sport fabric inserts and new red stitching, a stylish departure from previous blue accents. The driver benefits from an 8-way power-adjustable seat with power lumbar support, ensuring optimal driving comfort on long journeys. Both front seats are heated, adding to the comfort during colder months. A leather-wrapped steering wheel further enhances the premium feel of the interior.
For the 2023 model year, the XSE receives a significant upgrade to a 7-inch all-digital gauge cluster. This redesigned display is bright and colorful, providing drivers with essential vehicle information in a modern and easily digestible format. While some might find the font size slightly smaller compared to competitors, the clarity and information density are commendable.
2023 Toyota Corolla XSE leather-wrapped steering wheel and digital gauge cluster
The center console is slim yet functional, featuring a leather-wrapped gear shifter, drive mode controls, cupholders, and an electric parking brake with auto brake hold. A notable and practical design choice is the placement of the USB-C port upfront, conveniently located near the glove box, making it easily accessible for front passengers.
2023 Toyota Corolla XSE front exterior design with sporty grille and headlights
Technology and Connectivity: Modern and User-Friendly
Technology is where the 2023 Corolla XSE truly shines. The centerpiece is the new standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by Toyota’s latest Audio Multimedia system. This system represents a significant advancement in Toyota’s infotainment offerings, bringing modern connectivity and user-friendliness to the Corolla.
2023 Toyota Corolla XSE navigation screen with Toyota Audio Multimedia system
The system supports dual Bluetooth connectivity and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless smartphone integration. Toyota’s “Hey Toyota” voice command feature is responsive and intuitive, allowing for hands-free control of various vehicle functions. However, it’s important to note that features like weather updates and cloud-based navigation require a subscription to Toyota Drive Connect, which may not be included as standard. A Wi-Fi hotspot is available via subscription through AT&T for those needing in-car internet connectivity.
Audiophiles will appreciate the optional 9-speaker JBL Premium Audio system, a worthwhile upgrade that delivers excellent sound quality. This upgrade also includes a convenient wireless charging pad. Further tech enhancements for the 2023 XSE include a standard Smart Key System with Push Button Start, adding convenience to daily use. Rear passengers are also catered to with two new rear USB-C ports, bringing the total to four USB-C ports throughout the vehicle.
Cabin and Cargo Space: Practical Compact Sedan
The Corolla XSE remains a practical compact sedan, offering a surprisingly roomy cabin for its class. The backseat provides a 60/40 split-folding feature, enhancing cargo versatility when needed. While the middle rear seat passenger might find headroom and legroom somewhat limited, the outboard seats are comfortable. A drop-down center armrest in the rear includes two cupholders, and the rear seats, while on the flatter side, are adequately comfortable for typical journeys. The inclusion of new rear seat USB-C ports, quality carpets, and soft-touch seatbacks adds to the overall passenger experience.
2023 Toyota Corolla XSE back row seats and features
Trunk space is ample for a compact sedan, providing sufficient room for luggage and everyday cargo needs.
2023 Toyota Corolla XSE trunk space
Standard features on the XSE also include a moonroof with a sunshade and variable intermittent windshield wipers, adding to the vehicle’s convenience and comfort features.
Final Verdict: Is the 2023 Toyota Corolla XSE Right for You?
The 2023 Toyota Corolla XSE emerges as a significantly enhanced and appealing compact sedan. With its sporty exterior styling, upgraded technology, and premium interior touches, it offers a compelling package for buyers seeking a vehicle that’s both fun to drive and practical for daily life. The improvements in technology, particularly the new infotainment system and digital gauge cluster, bring the Corolla XSE firmly into the modern era. Combined with Toyota’s legendary reliability and fuel efficiency, the 2023 Toyota Corolla Xse Review showcases a vehicle that is well-rounded and ready to impress, making it a strong contender in the competitive compact sedan segment, particularly for those prioritizing sporty aesthetics and advanced technology features in a dependable and economical car.
