Some of you may be contemplating replacing your vinyl or cloth interiors with leather. My car originally came with the space grey cloth that has worn well, but I grew tired of. I researched the options and found the solution was to replace the interior fabric with the Katskinz kits. I had mine professionally installed (there are many installer in S. California). I chose the colors (solid charcoal with light grey piping vs. the standard double stitched seams) and ordered the kit on Wednesday and the installer had the kit on Thursday afternoon (yes, 24 hrs later!) and had it installed Friday morning. Install took approx 2.5 hrs. The quality, fit and finish is comparable to the factory leather, but not as nice as the Lounge Leather option in the R56/R55. Additionally, the side airbag functionality is retained which was critical and not offered by most other options. Overall, I am very happy with the results and welcome anyone that would like to see mine before they commit.

http://picasaweb.google.com/10188216...eat=directlink

 

Looks awesome! I think 99% of mini owners want their seats redone after the lumbar gets worn like in most 02-04. I know I do...

How much did it cost, and where is the shop located?

 

I was just starting to research options. My fake leather is cracking.
Thanks for this. It looks great. Love the piping.

 

Coach's Auto Restyling in Orange, Ca did the install for $1,300...not inexpensive. I would recommend visiting Katskinz website and contacting their regional rep for an installer reference as I did. Mine went from ordered to installed in 72 hrs.

 

Looks great! I second the Katzkin kits. I had mine down in the tuscan leather option and I would say that it is better quality than the lounge leather. I have had it in since Feb and it has worn well. I also went with piping. Seems like a natural fit for an English car . (pix in my gallery)

 

Agreed on the piping being a natural fit in English cars...adds the right amount of character without being over-the-top.

 

Good choice Katzkin is a great product, at reasonable cost.

 

Is that $1300 for leather + install?

 

$1,300 for leather AND installation.

 

Those turned out really nice. That is a great alternative too.

 

Looks good! PS, 06 R53s also came with the option for lounge leather.

My stock leather is still holding up really well and is supple.