BMW vehicles have the best interior when compared to other luxury car brands. Thanks to the high-quality materials on the seats and base trims. But each BMW model has a unique material craft to its interior surfaces. Sensatec and leather are among the premium materials for BMW vehicles.
The short answer is the Difference between BMW Sensatec and Leather is the former consists of synthetic vinyl materials, and the latter comes from animal hides. Besides that, leathers are more durable and quality than sensatec materials.
This article shares detailed insight into the differences between BMW Sensatec and leather that will help you make an informed decision.
Differences between BMW Sensatec and Leather
If you are looking to buy a new or used BMW, it is imperative to know the type of materials on the seats and base trims before paying. Here are quick differences between BMW leather and Sensatec materials:
Aesthetically
BMW cars guarantee luxury and comfort despite the different interior materials. Both sensatec and leather come in different colors and patterns to help suit different tastes and preferences of potential customers.
Leather materials have a similar appearance and texture since they come from animal skins. But the tanning process infuses artificial grain surfaces to provide a wide range of colors, designs, and patterns. Sensatec materials come from synthetic vinyl components.
These materials are customizable to suit your BMW interior design and appeal to different potential buyers with complicated tastes. Both Sensatec and leather materials on BMW are aesthetically appealing. These materials are customizable to bring luxury and comfort to different BMW models.
Breathability
Both leather and Sensatec materials have the same artificial grains after processing to result in different colors and patterns that appeal to many BMW enthusiasts. They also meet different tastes and preferences.
Customized BMW leather is more breathable than its sensatec counterpart. Leather materials are porous since they come from animal skins.
It makes them breathable and prevents retaining heat to foster maximum comfort. BMW leather is the winner in this category. We recommend these materials for your luxury BMW vehicle since they are more comfortable than the sensatec counterpart.
Durability and Quality
Quality and durability of the car interior are vital when buying a BMW. Some BMW vehicles have more durable and quality interiors than others.
Natural leather materials are premium and last longer than their synthetic vinyl counterpart.
But the sensatec materials still have appealing and durable features. We recommend a BMW with Sensatec materials since it is more water-resistant than its leather counterpart. On the contrary, it is vulnerable to stains, and cleaning can be challenging.
Usage
BMW vehicles come in several models and generations with different interior designs that determine their price tags. BMW 3-series cars are more affordable than their 5- series counterparts.
Sensatec materials are more popular on affordable BMW models and generations since the materials come from synthetic vinyl. Sourcing these materials is cheaper since they do not require intense processing.
Leather materials are common on high-end modern models and generations. They come from animal skins and undergo an expensive tanning process.
Most new BMW models have leather seats and base trims that worth the high price tag. BMW cars with leather interior surfaces are the winner in this category. The premium leather makes the interior durable and vibrant. If vintage BMW cars suit your taste, expect an interior with Sensatec materials.
Similarities between BMW Sensatec and Leather
- Both have artificial colors and a protective finish.
- Both have artificially infused grain patterns.
- Both have appealing appearances.
- Both have water-resistant surfaces.
- Both are durable and high-quality.
Both BMW Sensatec and leather materials have their advantages and disadvantages. It would be best to analyze the merits and shortcomings of each material before buying a BMW car. Let us now find that out together here:
BMW Sensatec Advantages
- Inexpensive to make
- Easy maintenance and care
- High-quality and durable
BMW Sensatec Disadvantages
- Not breathable
- Vulnerable to stains
BMW Leather Advantages
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Make car upholstery water-resistant
- Quite soft and breathable for comfort purposes
BMW Leather Disadvantages
- Too expensive
- Not eco-friendly
Summary
BMW leather is the best option since it is soft, durable, and breathable. It comes from porous animal skins that do not hold heat to cause sweating and discomfort while driving over long distances.
Sensatec materials are common for entry-level BMW models due to their affordability and accessibility. They are inexpensive since they come from synthetic vinyl materials. Its aesthetic appearance and durability make them ideal for BMW vehicles.