Does Subaru Use Real Leather? (Solved)

Are you in the market for a Subaru vehicle with leather seats? But does Subaru use real leather in their upholstery?

Subaru primarily uses synthetic materials such as vinyl leather for the upholstery in their vehicles, shifting away from real leather to more environmentally friendly options. However, real leather is still used in certain areas, particularly where direct skin contact is likely.

Leather Use in Subaru Models

If you are considering purchasing a Subaru and are curious about the leather upholstery options, it is important to know that Subaru has made a commitment to using more sustainable and environmentally friendly materials. While some older models may still use real leather, the majority of newer models use synthetic leather, also known as faux leather. Here is a breakdown of the leather use in various Subaru models:

Legacy

The Subaru Legacy has been a popular model for many years, and it is no surprise that it offers a variety of interior options. The Legacy comes with either cloth or leather-trimmed upholstery. However, it is important to note that the leather trim is synthetic and not real leather.

Outback

The Subaru Outback is another popular model that offers a variety of interior options. The Outback comes with either cloth or leather-trimmed upholstery. As with the Legacy, the leather trim is synthetic and not real leather.

Crosstrek

The Subaru Crosstrek is a smaller SUV that is perfect for those who want a vehicle that is both practical and stylish. The Crosstrek comes with either cloth or leather-trimmed upholstery. The leather trim is synthetic and not real leather.

Forester

The Subaru Forester is a versatile SUV that is perfect for families. The Forester comes with either cloth or leather-trimmed upholstery. The leather trim is synthetic and not real leather.

Ascent

The Subaru Ascent is a larger SUV that is perfect for families who need more space. The Ascent comes with either cloth or leather-trimmed upholstery. The leather trim is synthetic and not real leather.

BRZ

The Subaru BRZ is a sporty coupe that is perfect for those who enjoy driving. The BRZ comes with either cloth or leather-trimmed upholstery. The leather trim is synthetic and not real leather.

WRX and STI

The Subaru WRX and STI are performance-oriented vehicles that are perfect for those who want a thrilling driving experience. The WRX and STI come with either cloth or leather-trimmed upholstery. The leather trim is synthetic and not real leather.

Types of Leather Used by Subaru

Subaru uses different types of leather in their cars, including genuine leather, Nappa leather, synthetic leather, leatherette, and vegan leather. Each type of leather has its own unique characteristics and benefits. In this section, we will discuss each type of leather in detail.

Genuine Leather

Genuine leather is made from animal hides and is the most expensive and luxurious type of leather available. It is also the most durable and is resistant to wear and tear. Subaru uses genuine leather in some of its models, such as the Outback and the Legacy. The genuine leather used by Subaru is of high quality and is soft to the touch.

Nappa Leather

Nappa leather is a type of full-grain leather that is soft and supple. It is made from the highest quality hides and is often used in luxury cars. Subaru uses Nappa leather in some of its models, such as the Ascent. The Nappa leather used by Subaru is of high quality and is water-resistant.

Synthetic Leather

Synthetic leather, also known as faux leather, is a type of leather alternative that is made from synthetic materials. It is often used as a more affordable and animal-free alternative to genuine leather. Subaru uses synthetic leather in some of its models, such as the Crosstrek. The synthetic leather used by Subaru is of high quality and is soft to the touch.

Leatherette

Leatherette is a type of synthetic leather that is made from vinyl or PVC. It is often used as a more affordable and animal-free alternative to genuine leather. Subaru uses leatherette in some of its models, such as the Impreza. The leatherette used by Subaru is of high quality and is water-resistant.

Vegan Leather

Vegan leather is a type of leather alternative that is made from plant-based or recycled materials. It is often used as an animal-free and environmentally-friendly alternative to genuine leather. Subaru uses vegan leather in some of its models, such as the Forester. The vegan leather used by Subaru is of high quality and is made from recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyester.

Leather Seats and Comfort

While Subaru uses high-quality vinyl to cover most of the upholstery, they do use real leather in the seating areas where your skin might touch. This means that you can enjoy the comfort and luxury of leather without worrying about the ethical implications of using animal products.

Leather seats are a popular choice for many car buyers because they offer a level of comfort that’s hard to beat. Leather is soft and supple, which means it conforms to your body’s shape and provides excellent support. Leather seats are also breathable, which means they won’t get too hot or too cold, no matter what the weather is like outside.

If you’re looking for a car with leather seats, you’ll be pleased to know that Subaru offers leather-trimmed seats in several of their models, including the Legacy, Crosstrek, Crosstrek Hybrid, and Forester. These seats are designed to provide maximum comfort and support, and they come in a range of colors to suit your style.

When it comes to car seats, comfort is key. After all, you’ll be spending a lot of time sitting in your car, so you want to make sure that your seats are as comfortable as possible. Leather seats are a great choice because they’re soft, supple, and breathable, which means they’ll keep you comfortable no matter how long your drive is.

In addition to being comfortable, leather seats are also easy to clean and maintain. Unlike fabric seats, which can be difficult to clean and are prone to staining, leather seats can be wiped down with a damp cloth and mild soap to keep them looking like new. Plus, leather seats are more durable than fabric seats, which means they’ll last longer and provide better value for your money.

Leather Quality and Durability

When it comes to leather quality, Subaru has always been known for using premium materials. The leather used in Subaru cars is of high quality and is designed to last for a long time. The leather is soft to the touch, and it is resistant to wear and tear.

Subaru uses a combination of real leather and vinyl leather in their cars. Vinyl leather is used in areas where the leather is less likely to come into contact with your skin. Real leather is used in areas where your skin might touch, such as the seats.

The leather used in Subaru cars is durable and can withstand daily wear and tear. However, it is important to take care of the leather to ensure that it lasts for a long time. Here are a few tips to help you maintain the quality and durability of the leather in your Subaru:

• Clean the leather regularly: Use a leather cleaner to clean the leather seats and other leather surfaces in your car. This will help to remove dirt and grime that can damage the leather over time.
• Condition the leather: Use a leather conditioner to keep the leather soft and supple. This will help to prevent the leather from cracking and drying out.
• Avoid exposure to sunlight: Sunlight can cause the leather to fade and crack over time. Park your car in a shaded area or use a sunshade to protect the leather from the sun.
• Avoid sharp objects: Sharp objects can scratch and damage the leather. Be careful when placing items on the leather seats or other leather surfaces in your car.

Leather Appearance and Design

When it comes to the appearance and design of the leather used in Subaru cars, you can expect high-quality and visually appealing materials. The leather is sourced from reliable suppliers and is tested for wear and tear to ensure it is durable and long-lasting.

In terms of texture, Subaru’s leather is soft and supple, providing a comfortable seating experience. The stitching on the leather is also of high quality, adding to the overall aesthetic of the interior. You can expect to see a variety of colors available, including black, brown, and beige, to match the overall design of the car.

Subaru’s leather is also treated to give it an enhanced look and feel. The leather is dyed to ensure a consistent color throughout, and it is treated to resist stains and spills. This makes it easier to clean and maintain the appearance of the interior.

If you’re interested in the exact measurements of the leather used in Subaru cars, unfortunately, that information is not readily available. However, you can expect the leather to be of standard size and thickness, providing a comfortable and supportive seating experience.

Leather Care and Maintenance

Taking care of your Subaru’s leather interior is essential to maintain its quality and prolong its lifespan. Proper care and maintenance can also help prevent damage and stains, making it easy to clean and keep your car looking new.

To keep your leather seats in top condition, here are some tips:

• Regularly clean your leather seats with a soft cloth or sponge and a mild leather cleaner. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the leather’s surface.
• Apply a leather conditioner to keep the leather soft and supple. This will also help prevent cracking and drying out over time.
• Avoid exposing your leather seats to direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, as this can cause fading and cracking. Use a sunshade or park your car in a shaded area to protect your seats.
• Clean up spills and stains immediately with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid using water or excessive moisture, as this can damage the leather.
• Use a leather protectant to help repel stains and spills. This will also make it easier to clean any spills that do occur.

Pro Tip: To keep your leather seats looking their best, it's recommended to clean and condition them every three months. This will help maintain their quality and prolong their lifespan.

Environmental and Ethical Considerations

Subaru is one automaker that has made a commitment to reducing the environmental impact of their vehicles and manufacturing processes. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to Subaru’s use of materials in their cars.

Firstly, Subaru uses faux leather as a more sustainable and ethical alternative to real leather. This material is entirely animal-free and is often water-resistant, making it a practical choice for car upholstery. By using synthetic materials, Subaru reduces the environmental impact of their vehicles, as the production of synthetic materials typically requires fewer resources than natural materials.

Subaru’s commitment to the environment extends beyond their use of materials. For example, Mealey Subaru has donated 40 acres and $100,000 to Conservation Florida to protect the vital ecosystem of their wetland property. This is just one example of how Subaru is working to reduce their environmental impact and give back to the planet.

While Subaru primarily uses synthetic materials in their cars, there are still some models that use real leather. However, these models typically only use real leather on seating areas where your skin might touch. If you are interested in leather upholstery, you can choose from these models.

Alternatives to Leather in Subaru

If you are looking for a Subaru that does not use real leather, you will be pleased to know that there are several alternatives available. Here are some of the most common alternatives to leather used in Subaru vehicles:

Cloth

Cloth is a popular alternative to leather and is often used in Subaru vehicles. It is durable, easy to clean, and comes in a wide range of colors and patterns. Cloth seats are also more breathable than leather, which can be a plus in hot weather.

Vinyl

Vinyl is a synthetic material that is often used as a leather alternative in Subaru vehicles. It is durable, easy to clean, and can be made to look and feel like leather. Vinyl is also more affordable than leather, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Startex

Startex is a type of fabric that is often used in Subaru vehicles as an alternative to leather. It is a synthetic material that is durable, easy to clean and comes in a range of colors and patterns. Startex is also more breathable than leather, which can be a plus in hot weather.

Alcantara

Alcantara is a high-end synthetic material that is often used in luxury vehicles as an alternative to leather. It is soft, durable, and has a suede-like texture. Alcantara is also easy to clean and is resistant to stains and fading.

When it comes to alternatives to leather, there are many options available. In addition to the materials listed above, other options include vinyl leather, plastic, polyurethane, polyester, PVC, and other types of fake or faux leather. When choosing an alternative to leather, it is important to consider factors such as durability, ease of cleaning, and price.