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Does the Subaru Crosstrek use real leather?

The Subaru Crosstrek, a popular compact crossover SUV, does not use real leather in its interior. Instead, the Crosstrek features a synthetic leather-like material called "Leatherette" or "Simulated Leather" in its upholstery and trim.


What is Leatherette?


Leatherette, also known as faux leather or synthetic leather, is a material designed to mimic the look and feel of genuine leather. It is made from a combination of polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and other synthetic materials. Leatherette is often used as a more affordable alternative to real leather in automotive interiors, furniture, and other applications.


Subaru Crosstrek Interior Upholstery


The Subaru Crosstrek comes standard with cloth upholstery, but higher trim levels offer a leatherette-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Some Crosstrek models may also be available with a leatherette-wrapped center armrest and door panel inserts. However, the main seating surfaces and other interior surfaces are not made of real leather.


Benefits of Leatherette in the Subaru Crosstrek



  • Cost-Effective: Leatherette is generally less expensive to produce than genuine leather, allowing Subaru to offer a more affordable interior option for the Crosstrek.

  • Durability: Leatherette is often more durable and resistant to wear and tear than real leather, making it a practical choice for a family-oriented vehicle like the Crosstrek.

  • Maintenance: Leatherette is typically easier to clean and maintain than genuine leather, which can be more susceptible to stains and damage.

  • Vegan-Friendly: For consumers who prefer vegan or cruelty-free products, the Crosstrek's leatherette interior is a suitable alternative to real leather.


While the Subaru Crosstrek does not use real leather in its interior, the leatherette material provides a similar look and feel at a more affordable price point, making it a practical and sustainable choice for this compact crossover SUV.

Does Subaru use real leather in their seats?


A Finer Grade of Leather Upholstery
Subaru offers four types of upholstery on various Outback models. Leather is available on the Limited XT. But the Touring XT gets a finer grade. Nappa leather goes through a more complex tanning process and is both softer and more durable than less expensive hides.



How can I tell if my car seat is real leather?


See this is fake and there's no wrinkles here in the real leather. See that see those wrinkles up in there that show up when you do that. That's how you can tell the difference.



Does Subaru use vegan leather?


Subaru StarTex® is the auto giant's most recent upholstery product. First launched in 2020 with the Outback Onyx trim, Subaru StarTex® is a synthetic polyurethane leather alternative-in essence, it's a form of synthetic plastic.



Does the Subaru Crosstrek have real leather seats?


2023 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Interior
And it features unique interior color schemes, such as navy and gray leather seats with blue stitching. Heated front seats come standard on the 2023 Crosstrek Hybrid.



What material are Subaru seats made of?


Subaru StarTex seats in Covington LA are made from StarTex, a urethane material that doesn't include any polyvinyl chloride, phthalate, or chlorine. Its backing comprises 25% recycled polyethylene terephthalate, which you might recognize as "PET" from plastic water bottles.



Which year to avoid a Subaru Crosstrek?


Of all the Subaru Crosstrek years to avoid, 2019 is at the top of that list. More than 250 complaints were recorded by the NHTSA, which issued a significant seven recalls. The majority of these which were related to the ECM software causing an unexpected engine stall.



Why did Subaru discontinue Crosstrek?


Slow sales are one reason why Subaru of America (SOA) chose to drop the Crosstrek PHEV. SOA only sold 2,600 Crosstrek Hybrids in the U.S. last year (less than 1% of Subaru's unit sales in the country, according to data from auto research specialist MarkLines.)



What is the biggest complaint about the Subaru Crosstrek?


A list of some of the most common issues Crosstrek owners have to deal with.

  • Brake Light Switch Defect.
  • Cracked Windshields.
  • Subaru STARLINK Problems.
  • Rodents Chew Subaru's Soy Wires.
  • Subaru EyeSight Problems.
  • Rust and Corrosion Problems.



Which car company uses real leather?


Leather adds a luxurious feel to high-end brands like BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz.



Which crosstrek trim has leather?


Limited - Starting at $30,895*: The Crosstrek Limited expands on the Sport trim level by adding some comfort and safety features. The biggest change is the addition of leather upholstery and a power-adjustable driver's seat.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.