P31 alcantara/leather wheel vs. leather wheel
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Joined: Sep 2010
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From: Canada
2014 E63S Wagon
I didn't think I'd like the alcantara wheel when i first got my car, but now i'm in love with it.
It makes the car feel sportier, and it doesn't heat up and burn your hand in the summer. it's much easier to grip with your hands than the leather wheel imo.
It makes the car feel sportier, and it doesn't heat up and burn your hand in the summer. it's much easier to grip with your hands than the leather wheel imo.
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FF. W212 E63 M156 non-pano 18" P2 ParkT NightV (gone but will be missed).
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 3,462
Likes: 54
FF. W212 E63 M156 non-pano 18" P2 ParkT NightV (gone but will be missed).
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2007
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From: NA
Yes
Much prefer the alcantara - when I test drove a 2012 without it, I immediately noticed the difference. Perforated leather feels like a "sport" feature on a Camry or something in comparison to the alcantara.
Also - I had it on my '09 as well, and the alcantara was different. I think maybe now it's not true alcantara and maybe a more durable material. No doubt, the 09's wheels started pilling just a tiny bit, and definitely felt a bit worn in key areas. Not terrifying, but I noticed it. The 2012 feels much different, smoother and more durable.
Also - I had it on my '09 as well, and the alcantara was different. I think maybe now it's not true alcantara and maybe a more durable material. No doubt, the 09's wheels started pilling just a tiny bit, and definitely felt a bit worn in key areas. Not terrifying, but I noticed it. The 2012 feels much different, smoother and more durable.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2012
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From: Toronto
my wife bananas! :D
and bsmooth7, aren't you scheduled to pick up your car any day now? didnt know you can still choose steering wheel options this late in the order. how interesting.
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 374
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From: Spain
Porsche 911
Who said anything about still choosing steering wheel options?
MBWorld Fanatic!
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MB
I have the alcantara. It does wear in some spots. I plan on looking into getting it re-wrapped with new alcantara in a couple of years. If I do this, I'm considering replacing the solid leather top and bottom of the wheel with perforated leather for a unique look. I also may change the color of the alcantara from grey to black. But, I don't know how difficult these customizations would be to perform. I assume it can ge done by an interior shop.
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 429
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From: Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
2010 C63
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 520
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From: Toronto
2014 Lotus Evora S
Nothing. Use it dry, against the grain. If it's just flattened, the brush will bring it back. Obviously, if it's worn out, there's not much you can do.
Super Member
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 832
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From: Melbourne
(a)'12 C63 P/P, LSD, 19" m/spoke,comfort pack. (b)Astra SRI.
I do NOT like the alcantara wheel at all...it is the least liked feature of our car....a few times of use with sweaty hands & the stuff will flatten out & become matted.....not a good look....I'd much prefer perforated leather in place of the alcantara.
Cheers, Pickles.
Cheers, Pickles.
Super Member
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 723
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From: Calgary, AB
2014 E63 S
It will definitely wear over time, but mine still looks great.
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Joined: Aug 2011
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2012 E550 Cabrio
I like it a lot. I have a carbon fibre wheel with alcantara and when your driving the tactile change back and forth between the two surfaces is just one more sensory input on a car loaded with them.
I do keep a few pairs of nitril gloves in the trunk tho, in case I get my hands dirty or greasy and cant clean up.
I do keep a few pairs of nitril gloves in the trunk tho, in case I get my hands dirty or greasy and cant clean up.
Super Member
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 832
Likes: 3
From: Melbourne
(a)'12 C63 P/P, LSD, 19" m/spoke,comfort pack. (b)Astra SRI.
Believe it or not, wifey & I are going to buy driving gloves, so that we will not have to worry about the alacantra...seen some really nice old fashioned ones (leather with netting/string back) in the UK!
Cheers, Pickles.
Cheers, Pickles.
