Toyota Camry XSE vs. SE: Does More Expensive Mean Better?
Toyota’s Camry sedan offers many trims at different price points spanning over $10,000 between entry-level and range-topping options. So, does that mean the top offerings in the Camry’s lineup are worth so much more than the entry-level LE and SE models? Or is the XSE, XSE Hybrid, and other top trims not worth the extra money over the cheaper 2023 Toyota Camry SE?
Which is better, an XSE or an SE?
In terms of technology and comfort, the Toyota Camry XSE is a more refined and better-equipped trim than the SE. For instance, TrueCar says the XSE has ambient interior lighting, a remote engine start, and 19-inch wheels. However, the SE still has a color-matched rear spoiler, leather-trimmed seats, and dual exhaust tips that the entry-level LE doesn’t have.
Still, both vehicles pack 2.5L inline four-cylinder engines and standard front-wheel drive (FWD), with optional all-wheel drive (AWD) for around $1,400. Moreover, both the SE and XSE offer hybrid variants with a hybrid four-cylinder powerplant. However, the range-topping XSE V6 trim packs a 301-horsepower 3.5L six-cylinder engine.
How much is a fully-loaded 2023 Toyota Camry XSE?
The 2023 Toyota Camry XSE starts at around $32,715. Moreover, the Camry XSE has an AWD upgrade option for non-hybrid and non-V6 models. That puts the XSE at around $3,760 more than the SE trim.
Instead, fans who want a Hybrid XSE will have to contend with a starting price of around $35,190. Finally, the 301-horsepower 2023 Toyota Camry XSE V6 starts at about $37,840. Of course, Camry fans who want a modicum of performance will have to opt for the six-cylinder TRD trim. According to Car and Driver, a comparable Camry TRD V6 will hit 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds.
How much should I pay for a 2023 Camry SE?
The 2023 Toyota Camry SE starts at around $28,955. Moreover, potential owners can have the SE with optional AWD for grippier driving in inclement weather. Also, the SE has a hybrid trim that starts at around $31,285 and has many of the same features as the SE, including a blacked-out front grille.
What is the fuel economy of a 2023 Toyota Camry?
The options are very similar if you’re considering the SE against the XSE in terms of fuel economy. For instance, the 2023 Toyota Camry SE gets 28 mpg city and 39 mpg highway. Further up the trims, the XSE gets one mpg less in both categories.
Furthermore, the Hybrid SE and Hybrid SE Nightshade, with their hybrid four-cylinder drivetrains, average about 46 mpg combined. The 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid XSE gets comparable fuel efficiency scores to the Hybrid SE trims, namely 44 mpg city and 47 mpg highway. Of course, the six-cylinder Camry XSE V6 is much thirstier than its four-cylinder siblings. Specifically, the 2023 Toyota Camry XSE V6 gets around 22 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.
What is your favorite Toyota Camry trim? Tell us in the comments below!
