nflguy

We test drove two Es 350 cars today. The first was luxury trim and the 2nd was Ultra Luxury.

We found the semi-Anniline leather in the ultra luxury model to be more plush/comfortable. Anyone else agree? Also, should you have the semi aniline leather treated with anything either by the dealer or after market?

roxy208

Yes, I definitely agree. We have the regular leather in our RX and the UL pk in our ES. the semi-aniline looks and feels more luxurious. I didn't have any thing done at the dealer or after market. ( maybe I should have) I just condition with Meguiars leather cleaner & conditioner every weekend.

nflguy

On a related note I was very disappointed with the parchment interior on one of the ES350 we looked at. In pictures it looked great but in person It looked too light and had several finger print spots and smudges even though the car only had 10 miles on it. I was blown away by how mediocre it looked overall. It took about 10 seconds to realize black leather interior was the better option.

roxy208

Agree on that too. I test drove a white one with parchment interior and thought it looked inferior to the other colors. We choose silver with black.

Formula271

The "semi aniline" leather definitely has a softer, almost buttery feel. It is a more natural product than the more-processed "standard" leather, and will not be as durable. I have the black semi-aniline interior and love it.

Regarding cleaning...please please please (did I say please?) do not use cleaners frequently (if at all). In time, they will destroy the leather. The only reason for conditioner is to follow-up with the abuse after cleaning. If a cleaner is not used, conditioner isn't needed. Instead, try a clean microfiber cloth with just water (I use RO water).

nflguy

can you get the semi anniline leather without geting the ultra luxury package?

lesz

No, the semi-aniline leather only comes as a part of the ultra luxury package.

roxy208

Thanks for the cleaning info. I will follow your advice.

portable11

I have semi-aniline leather furniture in my family room. The leather has a really nice feel to it, but it really has not held up well. I wouldn't choose it again, and certainly not in something that experiences temperature extremes like a car.

FYI, I have the nuluxe faux leather in my car, nothing but a quick wipe with a damp towel after washing it. My salesperson suggested I try it this time, and I have no regrets.

Your mileage may vary...

chromedome

My old TSX had parchment leather and it was a total pain to keep clean. I used a good cleaner and conditioner and I still got jeans stains and tea stains. Now I've got gray NuLuxe and ice cream, vomit, mud (kids!!!) all wipe right off with a damp microfiber cloth.

Semi-aniline has a weird sound, like that non-Corinthian leather thing that Chrysler used

Mike728

My semi-aniline looks as good today as it did 2 years ago when I purchased the car. I've only wiped it down with a dry microfiber cloth, as far as cleaning goes. Another huge benefit of having the semi-aniline, is it comes with the cushion extender (both are standard on the UL). I don't think I could get comfortable in the standard seat. The cushion seems too short without the extender.

Arty101

I have the standard parchment leather and have no issues. Knock on wood, not even blue transfer from jeans.