There are so many suggestions on how to maintain the leather seats. Some suggest to take extra care, some suggest only to use soap water. I am so confused. (confused)
Why? Follow the manual.
Leather
Remove dust and sand first using a
vacuum cleaner or other means, then wipe
dirt off using a soft cloth with a leather
cleaner or a soft cloth soaked in mild
soap.
Wipe off the remaining cleaner or soap
using a cloth soaked in clean water and
wrung out well.
Remove moisture with a dry, soft cloth
and allow the leather to further dry in a
well-ventilated, shaded area. If the leather
gets wet such as from rain, also remove
moisture and dry it as soon as possible.
From my 2016.5's manual:
NOTE
Because genuine leather is a natural
material, its surface is not uniform and it
may have natural scars, scratches, and
wrinkles.
To maintain the quality for as long as
possible, periodical maintenance, about
twice a year, is recommended.
Sand and dust on the seat surface may
damage the overcoat of the genuine leather
surfaces and accelerate wear.
Greasy soiling on genuine leather may
cause molding and stains.
Rubbing hard with a stiff brush or cloth
may cause damage.
Do not wipe the leather using alcohol,
chlorine bleach, or organic solvents such as
thinner, benzene, or gasoline. Otherwise, it
may cause discoloration or stains.
If the seats get wet, promptly remove
moisture with a dry cloth. Remaining
moisture on the surface may cause
deterioration such as hardening and
shrinkage.
Exposure to direct sunlight for long periods
may cause deterioration and shrinkage.
When parking the car under direct sunlight
for long periods, shade the interior using
sunshades.
Do not leave vinyl products on the seats for
long periods as they may affect the leather
quality and coloring. If the cabin
temperature becomes hot, the vinyl may
deteriorate and adhere to the genuine
leather.
Not sure how to interpret "overcoat". However, I bought a sheepskin for my 2015 so the leather wouldn't make me sweat through my clothes and it had a cloth backing. Other than that, I can't imagine how a skin of leather over something synthetic could possibly be cheaper OR better in a car seat. Only cheaper or better justifies extra trouble to make a seat.