Anthracite headliner is a dark trendy new interior aesthetic you may be familiar with from shopping for BMW, Volkswagen VW, or Mini-Coopers. Headliner refers to the material on the roof of the interior of a vehicle.
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What Is an Anthracite Headliner?
Anthracite is dark grey or black color that manufacturers often describe as coal. Recently, anthracite has been growing in popularity as a unique feature of a luxury vehicles.
Anthracite is a color offered in several different materials. For the ultimate luxury experience, Alcantara material is one way to bring the look of your automobile to a different level.
What’s So Special About Anthracite Headliner?
Anthracite headliners’ growth in popularity reflects a new trend in the fast-paced world of luxury vehicle aesthetics. The popularity of anthracite headliners now can be attributed to the relative inattention manufacturers paid to the headliner material and design in the past. Consumers got used to the standard colors and fabric, creating the opportunity for something new.
The novelty of the anthracite headliner is immediately apparent to anyone who has ever entered a vehicle that features it. Most vehicle designs do not emphasize the headliner. Historically, most vehicles feature the inoffensive and unassuming grey headliner. Anthracite shatters that paradigm by making the predominant color in the car so dark.
Anthracite headliner is accented best by darker colors on the control panel of the vehicle. The dark interior and particular material are soft and naturally obscure the superficial effects of any damage.
Headliner color choices are naturally preference-based, but the stylistic themes evoked by anthracite are universal in some ways. The darker theme evokes a mysterious strength and helps create the perception of a vehicle that is nimble and powerful.
Anthracite Alcantara Headliner Material
Alcantra is a synthetic fabric with a suede-like texture. In the 1970s auto manufacturers began utilizing it for interior fabric needs. While anthracite Alcantara is coal-colored, Alcantara is available in many different colors.
Alcantra is not, and leather is generally more durable. However, Alcantara is still far more durable than cloth or vinyl headliners and maintains its shiny exterior even after use over an extended period.
For steering wheels, Alcantara has higher resistance, but some prefer the unique feel of leather.
What Is the Best Material for Headliners?
Leather is the most common alternative luxury vehicle upholstery, while the most widely used headliner is cloth or vinyl. Leather and Alcantara are a clear favorite over cloth and vinyl in terms of durability, and resistance to degradation. The luxury materials also have a leg up because they are easier to repair.
However, both leather and Alcantara also demand ongoing maintenance. Leather can crack if not properly cared for, and Alcantara can wear out quickly if exposed to a lot of friction.
Best Anthracite Headliner Mini-Cooper
You can find anthracite headliner featured in the Mini Cooper S Convertible Sidewalk Edition, Mini Countryman Plug-In Hybrid Special Edition, and the Mini Countryman Yin Yang Edition.
Best Anthracite Headliner BMW
BMW vehicles also feature anthracite headliners, including The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, The M3 2023 BMW M3 Sedan, and the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe.
Best Anthracite Headliner VW
While anthracite is not mentioned by name for Volkswagen products currently, any headliner that is offered in black or very dark gray is going to get a similar effect. Volkswagen has produced vehicles with anthracite headliners in the past, so it’s always worth asking a representative what is available.
Is Anthracite Headlining Worth It?
It is standard for anthracite headlining options to be priced as luxury items for the consumers wishing to enjoy them. Consumers need to make an individual choice as to whether or not anthracite is worth it to them depending on their financial situation and their taste.
If you are not sure anthracite is right for you, a test drive will give you the most definitive answer.
If a test drive is not an option, consider your tastes regarding the design of vehicles and other small spaces. Pay extra attention to the headliner of vehicles you do encounter. If you find appreciate the stunning but sleek feel of darker interiors, anthracite is a fantastic option.
Some report that a dark-colored headliner can make a vehicle feel claustrophobic. Buyers prone to claustrophobia or buying a smaller vehicle might prefer the illusion of space created by lighter material. On the other hand, if you are a bit claustrophobic, but are purchasing a large vehicle, the perception of a slightly smaller space is unlikely to be as pressing.
To the extent it is possible to account for taste, companies selling luxury cars are convinced anthracite is enough to seduce $100-$500 from your bank account. Anthracite may be expensive, but it is also beautiful. A sleek and powerful vehicle interior might be what you need for that extra boost of confidence.
