Does Acura use real wood?

Yes. Acura uses real wood veneer on many higher-trim interiors, while base trims typically feature synthetic or faux wood trim.

Across its lineup, Acura blends premium materials with modern design. The decision to include genuine wood veneer depends on model, trim level, and market. This article outlines where real wood is commonly offered and how to verify it for a specific vehicle.

Where real wood is commonly found in Acura interiors

The following provides a concise guide to where real wood veneer is typically offered within recent model-year interiors, and the finishes that are often used.

• MDX — Real wood veneer is commonly offered on higher trims such as the Advance package. Finishes frequently include Walnut Burl or Open-Pore Ash Burl.


• TLX — Higher trims (Technology/Advance) often feature real wood veneer, with Walnut Burl or Ash Burl finishes as options.


• RDX — Real wood veneer is available on upper trims, with similar burl wood finishes to match the cabin’s tone.


• Other Acura models — In sport-focused or introductory trims, wood is less common or replaced with synthetic options; performance-oriented variants typically emphasize materials like leather, carbon fiber, or aluminum rather than wood.

Note: Availability varies by model year, market and option packages. Always confirm on the build sheet or with the dealer for a specific vehicle.

Wood species and finish options commonly used

Automakers select veneer species to balance look, weight, and cost. Acura has used a handful of real-wood veneers in its premium cabins.

• Walnut Burl — A dark, richly grained veneer used to create a luxurious contrast with leather upholstery.


• Ash Burl — A lighter tone with distinct grain patterns that complements lighter interior colors.


• Open-Pore finishes — Used to showcase the wood grain with a more natural, tactile feel.

As with model availability, wood species and finishes can vary by year and region; dealers can provide exact options for a specific vehicle.

Summary

In summary, Acura generally offers real wood veneer in its higher-trim interiors across the MDX, TLX, and RDX lineups, with finishes such as walnut burl and ash burl. Base trims tend to use synthetic trims. Always verify your exact configuration via the dealer or the vehicle’s build sheet, as availability changes by year and market.

Is the wood in cars real?

Wood trim, alternatively known as wood fascia, is a fascia made of synthetic or varnished wood, usually found in the interior of luxury cars. Wood trim can be made from natural materials like beechwood, maple, walnut, oak, or from synthetic materials.

Does Lexus use real wood?

Yes, Lexus uses real wood, though it's often processed into thin veneer or composite layers for stability in a vehicle environment. While many Lexus models have featured real wood for decades, some newer models like the TX and GX have moved away from wood entirely to feature other materials like aluminum or matte-finish trim, and some trims may use imitation wood.
 
Details on Lexus wood trim

• Construction: The real wood is often part of a multi-layered composite structure to prevent swelling or cracking due to temperature and humidity changes in a car's interior. For example, the Shimamoku veneer process involves slicing thin sheets of real wood to create precise, vibrant patterns. 
• Sources: Lexus has sourced real wood from various parts of the world, including African sapele and North American walnut, as well as bamboo from Japan. 
• Examples:
  • The Lexus GS has used real bamboo trim. 
  • The Lexus RX has featured various real wood options, including African sapele, walnut, and Japanese bamboo. 
  • The Art Wood trim in the Lexus LS is made from sustainably sourced Agathis wood. 
• Variations:
  • Some wood trims are high-gloss, while others, like certain bamboo options, have a matte finish. 
  • The definition of "real wood" can vary, with some customers finding the processed veneer less authentic than solid wood. 

Where to find it

• Real wood is typically found on higher trim levels of certain models. 
• Some new models, such as the 2024 GX, do not use any wood trim at all, prioritizing other materials for its functional design. 

Was wood paneling on cars real wood?

A Woodie is a vehicle, typically a station wagon, that features exterior wood paneling or simulated woodgrain trim. Early models used real wood, while later versions adopted vinyl woodgrain wraps.

Does Acura use real leather?

Yes, many higher-end Acura models use real leather, particularly in premium trim levels, while others offer a choice between genuine leather and synthetic materials. For example, models like the MDX and TLX use genuine materials such as Milano leather, often combined with Ultrasuede. Other models, like certain trims of the Integra, feature a high-end synthetic option called leatherette, or Ultrasuede, instead of real leather.
 
Examples of models with real leather

• Acura MDX: Higher trims offer premium leather seating, with features like massage functions and unique color options such as Orchid leather. 
• Acura TLX: Higher trims feature premium Milano leather, sometimes combined with Ultrasuede. 
• Acura RDX: The Technology and Advance packages come with perforated Milano leather. 

Models that offer synthetic options

• Acura Integra: High-end trims may forgo real leather for materials like leatherette, microsuede, or perforated Ultrasuede. 
• Some lower trims: Some base models might have synthetic materials, and it's common for some parts of the interior to be synthetic even in higher trims. 

What to look for

• Check the trim level: Genuine leather is usually an option on higher trim levels. 
• Read the fine print: Some manufacturers may use a combination of real leather and synthetic materials. For example, "leather-trimmed" seats may not be entirely leather. 
• Contact the dealership: The most accurate way to know for sure is to check the specific vehicle's features with the dealership.