Leather, Leatherette, or Leather-Trimmed?
Worth knowing before you shop, because the words get used loosely across the industry. Genuine leather is exactly that. Leatherette and similar synthetics — sold under names like SofTex and various "leather-appointed" or "leatherette" labels — are man-made materials that look and largely feel like leather. And "leather-trimmed" usually means leather on the surfaces you touch, with synthetic on the bolsters and backs. None of these is a bad choice; synthetics are often more durable and easier to clean, and some shoppers prefer them outright. But you should know which one you're buying. Ask us and we'll tell you straight what any specific vehicle has.
Leather Usually Means a Better-Equipped Car
Manufacturers rarely sell leather on its own — it arrives as part of an upper trim, which is why a used car with leather seats typically brings a lot more with it. On a Honda that's the EX-L and Touring trims; on a Toyota, XLE, XSE and Limited; on Hyundai and Kia, Limited and SX; on Acura, the Technology and Advance packages. Along with the leather you generally get heated front seats, a power driver's seat with memory, upgraded audio, a sunroof and a fuller driver-assist suite. Buying pre-owned is what makes that trim level affordable: those packages carry a significant premium new, and much less of one a few years later.
Living with Leather in New York
Two practical points. Leather and leatherette wipe clean, which matters more than people expect if you have kids, a dog, or drive for a rideshare service — spills come off a leather seat in a way they never do off cloth. And because leather arrives bundled with heated seats on nearly every trim that offers it, you get the thing that actually makes leather pleasant in a Brooklyn February. If you park outside in summer, a windshield shade is a worthwhile $20.
Used, Certified Pre-Owned, and Financing
If you want the inspection and warranty coverage behind your purchase, look at certified pre-owned. Shopping by body style instead? See used sedans or used SUVs. Plaza Auto Mall has been family-owned on Nostrand Avenue since 1975, and our finance team works with all credit situations: excellent credit, first-time buyers, past credit challenges and everything in between. Get pre-approved online in minutes, estimate your payment, or get an instant cash offer on your current vehicle. Visit us on Nostrand Avenue in Brooklyn, NY 11210, or get directions.
