What material does Subaru use for their seats?
Subaru uses a mix of upholstery materials, with cloth upholstery standard on many base models and leather-trim (synthetic leather) offered on higher trims; overall, there isn't a single material used across every model.
Subaru's seat fabrics vary by model, trim level, and market. To understand what's in a specific vehicle, it's best to check the exact brochure or window sticker. The following summarizes the common options available across the lineup as of the latest model years.
Upholstery options by trim
Here is a quick guide to the most prevalent seat materials Subaru uses across its lineup. Availability can differ by model year and region.
- Cloth upholstery: A durable polyester-blend fabric is common on base and mid-range trims and is designed for everyday wear and easy upkeep.
- Leather-trim or synthetic leather upholstery: Higher trims and some limited editions offer seats with leather-trim surfaces, which are synthetic leather rather than genuine animal hide; these are marketed as leather-trim or leatherette.
- Premium or alternative interior options: On some models or markets, Subaru offers interiors with higher-end textures or contrast stitching, sometimes with faux suede inserts, but availability is model-specific.
In practice, Subaru provides a spectrum from affordable fabric to more upscale leather-trim interiors, with the exact material declared in the model's options and features list.
Examples by model (select)
Subaru typically describes upholstery as standard cloth on base models and leather-trim on higher trims, but the exact combination can change by generation and region. Here are the usual patterns observed in recent years, noting that there are exceptions:
- Forester: Standard cloth on base, leather-trim on higher trims; some special editions may include leather seating surfaces.
- Outback: Similar pattern with cloth in lower trims and leather-trim on mid-to-high trims; some trims offer leather seating surfaces across multiple regions.
- Impreza/Legacy: Cloth is common on base; leather-trim on mid/high trims in certain markets; higher-end models might include upgraded leather or leatherette surfaces.
- BRZ/WRX: Depending on market, sport seats may use cloth with synthetic leather accents or full leather-trim on higher-performance trims. Some special editions may feature different materials.
If you need the exact material for a specific model and year, please provide the model and year, or I can look up the current brochure for you.
Why materials vary
Seat materials vary because of price targets, customer preferences, and manufacturing considerations. Cloth upholstery is typically more cost-effective and durable for family-focused models, while leather-trim interiors offer a more upscale feel and are favored in higher trims and certain markets. Subaru also weighs maintenance, comfort, and climate performance when selecting interior fabrics.
Summary
Subaru’s seat materials primarily fall into two categories: cloth upholstery and leather-trim (synthetic leather). The exact material mix depends on model, year, and region, with base trims usually offering cloth and higher trims offering leather-trim. For a specific vehicle, always consult the exact brochure or window sticker to confirm the upholstery material.
