It’s a synthetic surface, usually made of vinyl or a type of plastic that is meant to simulate the look and feel of leather. Leather, of course, is the real deal: It comes from a cow.

Leatherette, or simulated leather, is a synthetic texture made with vinyl, but with a softer feel to match leather as closely as possible. It’s cheaper to produce than leather and easier to keep ...

We have young kids: does leather make sense or synthetic (fabric, and/or is vinyl even offered these days)? Is one easier to clean? Which is more durable? – Kallie in Campbell River, B.C. New ...

In general, synthetic leathers are made from some plastic or vinyl derivative and are made to look and feel like real leather. The degree to which the automaker can pull that off will depend ...