Can you get leather seats in a Honda Civic?
The short answer: Yes. Real leather seats are available on the Honda Civic, but typically only on the higher trims such as EX-L and Touring; LX, Sport, and EX generally come with cloth or leatherette seating.
In practice, buyers should know that leather seating is tied to trim level and model year. The current 11th generation Civics (2022–present) tend to reserve real leather for EX-L and Touring, with cloth or leatherette on lower trims. Availability can vary by body style (sedan vs hatch) and market, and some regions offer packages that include leatherette instead of genuine leather on certain trims.
Leather seating by trim and model year
The following list reflects how the current Civic lineup typically handles leather seating. Note that exact materials can vary by year and market, so always verify with your local dealer.
- LX: cloth seats
- Sport: cloth seats
- EX: cloth seats
- EX-L: leather-trim seats (real leather)
- Touring: leather-trim seats (real leather)
Trims EX-L and Touring are the ones most likely to feature real leather seating. If leather interior is a priority, target one of these trims and confirm the material for your specific model year and region with a dealer.
Understanding leather options: real leather vs leatherette
Honda markets interior materials as leather-trim rather than full-grain leather for Civics. In practice, EX-L and Touring typically use real leather, while some markets or earlier model years may include leatherette (synthetic leather) on certain trims. The choice affects feel, durability, and maintenance—real leather generally requires conditioning and care to prevent cracking over time.
How to get leather seats: what to consider
If your goal is leather seating, here are practical steps and considerations when shopping.
- Check the exact trim and model year: confirm whether leather-trim is standard or optional on EX-L or Touring for the year you’re considering.
- Consider interior features: EX-L and Touring often pair leather seating with heated front seats and other premium touches; verify the current spec for your region.
- Assess pricing and incentives: factory leather seats typically add to the price; compare with cloth or leatherette configurations across trims and any current incentives.
- Option for aftermarket: aftermarket leather upholstery is available but may affect warranty; if you’re buying used, verify the seating material in the vehicle history.
Before finalizing a purchase, verify with a local dealer the exact seating material for the desired Civic, as trims and package names can vary by year and market.
Maintenance and care for leather interiors
Leather seats require regular care to maintain appearance and longevity. The basics include:
- Clean with products designed for leather, using a soft cloth and avoiding harsh cleaners
- Condition periodically to prevent drying and cracking
- Protect from sun exposure with shade or a seat cover to preserve color and texture
With proper care, leather seats can retain their look and comfort for many years in a Civic.
Summary
Leather seating is available in a Honda Civic, but mostly on higher trims (EX-L and Touring). If leather interior is important, plan to choose one of those trims and confirm the exact material for your year and market with the dealer. For those who don’t want leather, lower trims offer cloth or leatherette seating and can still be well-equipped with a strong feature set.
Which Honda Civics to stay away from?
Years to avoid the Honda Civic include 2001–2005, 2006–2009, and 2012 and 2016, which have been associated with problems like transmission failures, cracked engine blocks, and faulty airbags. The 2001 model is often cited as the worst due to a high number of complaints, recalls, and transmission issues. Other specific years like 2007, 2009, and 2016 also have known problems such as cracked engine blocks and issues with the AC and Bluetooth systems.
Specific model years to avoid:
- 2001–2005:
- Transmission failures: The automatic transmission was known to fail around 100,000 miles.
- Engine problems: Cracked engine blocks are a known issue, especially in the 2006–2009 models.
- Airbag recalls: These models were affected by the widespread Takata airbag recall.
- Other issues: Faulty fuel pumps and battery problems in hybrids were also reported.
- 2006–2009:
- Cracked engine blocks: This was a significant problem for this generation.
- Airbag issues: Recalls were common, particularly for the hybrid models in 2006.
- 2012:
- Transmission issues: Some reports suggest problems with the transmission in this model year.
- 2016:
- AC unit and Bluetooth problems: This model year is known for issues with its air conditioning system and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Steering rack failures: Steering rack failures have been reported in some instances.
What to look for instead:
- Most reliable years:
- 2012–2015: These years generally have good reliability ratings.
- 2020–2024: Recent models are considered reliable with good fuel economy and safety ratings.
- Good alternatives:
- 2004–2005
- 2011
- 2013–2015
Which Honda Civic trim level has leather seats?
Which Honda Civic has leather seats? Leather seating is standard on the EX-L and Touring trims. Which Honda Civic has a moonroof? A moonroof is standard on the Honda EX trim level and higher.
How much does it cost to put leather seats in a Honda?
Standard Kit Price: $1,595.00
Whether you want to upgrade your cloth upholstery, replace worn factory leather, or personalize a one of a kind leather interior kit, give your Honda a custom interior from mild to wild.
Can you get a Honda Civic with leather seats?
Sport Touring Hybrid shown in Gray Leather. Leather-trimmed seats standard on Sport Touring Hybrid. Relax into the spacious cabin, which seats five and offers available leather-trimmed seats for added style and comfort.
