[exthree]

I'm trying to move into a 5 series within my budget and I priced a 528i on the BMWNA web site with Jet Black and Leatherette, for which there is no up-charge. It's fairly easy to find the exterior color on the dealer lot, but the Leatherette interior is impossible! Can forum members comment on the Leatherette seating quality, comfort and appearance?

[Dallas550]

I had leatherette on my first 5 series. It held up very well, you didn't have to worry about stains, etc. Appearance wise it looked fine, wasn't glaring. The only thing I will caution you on is resale value, but if you plan to keep it then I say go for it.

[1HOT BMR]

Leatherette is a fine, comfortable and durable material. It's super easy to clean, keeps its new appearance well and many people cannot tell the difference by just looking at it. I've had leatherette in a Mercedes and now in my wife's VW - I believe BMW uses the exact same stuff. I'ts just vinyl but a very nice one and it wears better than leather.

[RichardM]

I ordered leatherette on my E60 and although it looks good (much better than cloth) the material doesn't 'breath' in the way leather does and you will end up with a sweaty back after a long journey! In my experience the Mercedes system is much better.

[gatoman39]

The reason you're having a tough time finding it, is that people who are willing to pay 50k+ on a car almost always will want leather, so that is how the dealers order them. What you want and see on the configurator, versus how the cars are ordered are usually 2 very different things. If you're hell bent on keeping cost down, I would try and order a bare bones one from the factory.

[guji]

I had leatherette on my MINI cooper for a few years. Its comfortable and feels similar to leather, however, you will feel a bit hot in the back after driving a long distance, since the material doesn't really breath.

[Needsdecaf]

Originally Posted by gatoman39

The reason you're having a tough time finding it, is that people who are willing to pay 50k+ on a car almost always will want leather, so that is how the dealers order them. What you want and see on the configurator, versus how the cars are ordered are usually 2 very different things. If you're hell bent on keeping cost down, I would try and order a bare bones one from the factory.

Interesting how many MB Tex E's, ML's and GL's are on the lots around here.....MB does not share the same philosophy when it comes to leatherette.

[gatoman39]

Originally Posted by Needsdecaf

Interesting how many MB Tex E's, ML's and GL's are on the lots around here.....MB does not share the same philosophy when it comes to leatherette.

True, and it's one of the main reasons I refused to get an E350, when I was in the mkt.
Me: You can't get an E350 sedan w/ leather?
CA: You can, you have to special order it though. If you want leather I suggest you get an E550.
Me: I don't put ketchup on sushi and I don't drive Benzos with plastic seats.

[Jon D]

Leatherette in a BMW! Is this a wind-up?
I've just looked at the UK configurator and, even on the base 520d, it comes with leather as standard and there's no alternative.