First post here..

I looked at a 2012 TSX SE today and really like the SE package because of the 18" wheels and the all around skirts. Seems like a really good deal.

My question is about the quality of the suede seats. The best faux suede (found in the Audi R8) is called Alcantara. This is the real deal faux suede. I'm interested to determine how high quality the faux suede in the TSX SE is.

Overall durability is definitely up there on my list of concerns. Outside of not being too hot, not being too cold, and offering better grip, what do you guys think about it?

I'm a bit torn because I really like the all around skirts and 18" wheels (plus suede interior accents).. it comes out being like $1100.. purchased separately you're looking well over $2200 and you never get the suede.

Any thoughts or info on the quality of this SE suede would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

genilladelph

 

The wheels are still 17" for the SE. As for the suede, can't comment too much on the durability since I have only had it for 3k miles but I feel like the suede is of quality. Doesn't feel cheap by any means and seems like it would last granted you take care of it. Love not sliding around in the seat!

 

Thanks for the comment. 3k miles on it is better than 0 miles. They definitely felt like good quality. I can't imagine Acura would install suede that would wear out overtime... If anyone has had any experience with faux suede in other cars that'd be helpful as well.

Thanks for the correction on the wheels. I do like the polished gray finish on the SE wheels.

SE wheels -Polished & gray-finish 5-spoke 17” wheels

 

I think the suede seats were the most unattractive aspect of the SE. Leather is the best looking and a more expensive option than suede. It'll take that much more effort conditioning your leather seats and trying to avoid the suede.

 

you had me at

 

I wouldn't say they're unattractive and detailing between suede and leather seems like a non existent issue to me. Thought a lot about the SE and the red highlights last night, but blue is my favorite color.. I think I'll forgo the SE and go for the BASE. Throw some bigger wheels and coil overs and I think I'd be happier in the long run.

 

Sounds a little off I suppose... I think I am less concerned with quality.. just looking for opinions. Tough decisions man...

 

The interior is fine on the SE. I've had similar fabric on my S2000 CR, Civic Si, and Lexus IS F Sport. It's nicer than the "leather" used IMO. Holds you in, not hot or cold in the summer and winter. Never had a problem with any yet.

 

Thanks for the info on the other rides.. quite the collection. Another nice thing about the SE is that black headliner.

 

I don't know why they don't have black headliner in all cars. I love it!

I've had my suede for about 8 months. No problems. It doesn't burn my legs in the summer so I do love that! I rather have it then the leather. The subtle 2 tone does it for me.

 

no probs with the suede here, but i also got the SE for the 6pd

 

But they would put some crappy leathers in

 

Heh right? Hopefully pulling the trigger this afternoon on SE or base. Still haven't decided.. I need to sit in it again. The SE gives me more time to wait before I'd want to upgrade suspension and wheels. The BASE IMO needs some immediate attention to the stance.

Basically this thread has been created for me to vent my thoughts. Thanks for input so far guys.

 

Huh? The SE has the same suspension and the same wheels - just painted a bit.

The main difference is the interior trim bits and seats. Externally you get side skirts and different front and rear valances. Mechanically the two are identical unless you factor in the ugly SE badge on the back that adds 30hp.

 

seats are definitely not Alcantara

 

so that means they are fake real deal fake suede?

 

I'm wondering about the same thing.

Does that suede feel like the 2006-2011 civic si seats?

 

I was able to get a better lease deal on the SE than the base. With the SE I liked all the goodies.....Darker wheels, Front Lip, Side Skirts, Rear Bumper, Seats, Sport Pedals, Shift Knob, Black Headliner, Red Guages, Red Accent Light etc. Does the Base model have the door sill plates?

 

^ Dang two SEs ahahahah. We have aluminum door sills if that's what you're talking about?

 

the seats feel totally different IMO i had a 08 si

 

Yeah I didnt know if it was just the SE that has the aluminum door sills or all the TSX's have them?

Ha yeah, my wife got one. Then I found out we have a baby on the way, so I needed to free up some money on the car payment. I could not find anything I liked for under 30k more than the TSX. I had an 08 back in the day, that I should have kept and I've regreted selling it since.

 

Another SE owner with 3,300 miles on the car and I love the seats. I've have 2 previous cars with leather and these seats feel much nicer -- grip better and more comfortable on long drives. It takes alot for me to get comfortable in a car and this thing fits like a glove and adjusts to my needs. Material doesn't feel cheap and have held up fine so far.

Windows have a light tint on the SE, not sure if that's the case on the base model -- it's something I didn't notice before but have grown to appreciate alot very quickly.

Stan

 

1800 miles on my SE and really like the suede. Very comfortable and really holds me in place during cornering. Did a 500 mile RT in one day with 3 passengers and all commented on how comfortable the car was. I wanted a manual so my choice was limited but really like the interior. The black headliner is a nice touch also. Some have commented on the sport pedals. Overall, anyone who has been in my SE really thinks it is a great ride. Also, with 6MT, everyone so far thinks it has a 6 cylinder and are surprised that it is only a 4 banger...