Many new cars in the market from various categories promote their inclusion of Alcantara in the cabin. But what even is Alcantara and why do so many car manufacturers use it?
Alcantara is a suede-like material which some car manufacturers use to cover their seats, interior trim and sometimes the steering wheel and gear stick. The material is named after the company which patented it.
It is most popularly used in premium brand cars but may also be offered at least optionally for other brands’ family cars or performance models, most likely for their range-topping trim.
Although Alcantara has a similar look to suede, it is comparably more durable against hot and cold temperatures. It also copes with marks and scuffs better than certain other materials used in cars and removing dirt off it is easy.
Manufacturers also like to use this material because of its grippy texture and the smart, premium appearance it can pull off.
Adding Alcantara to your car
When present, Alcantara is a welcome feature to have in your car’s cabin and can particularly help to give sports cars a simultaneously smart and practical edge.
If a new car you’re considering buying does not include Alcantara as standard but offers it as standard, it is worth considering this extra. You should consider the extra expense though.
In similar fashion to optional leather trim packs, adding Alcantara to a car can add around one or two grand to the total purchase price. It will likely then be one of the priciest options on the list so will require careful consideration as to whether it fits into your budget and feels entirely necessary.
