Tesla White Interior vs Black: Which is the Winner?

It’s important to choose an interior that not only looks good but also feels comfortable and luxurious. Tesla’s vegan leather interiors come in two simple yet elegant colors — white and black. Although both options look impressive and luxurious, is there a clear winner? Should you get a white or black Tesla interior?

Both white and black Tesla interiors have their unique pros and cons. White Tesla interiors are softer and more luxurious than black interiors. However, a black interior comes standard, whereas you have to pay a premium for a white interior. Additionally, black interiors are easier to maintain.

In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of both options to help you make the best decision for you and your vehicle. From the soft, airy feel of the white interior to the chic, classic look of the black interior, we’ve got you covered. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

5 Differences Between Tesla’s White and Black Interiors

Tesla is completely different from other car brands regarding interior customizability. They have rather limited options to make it easier and cheaper to manufacture.

When choosing the interior, you personalize the entire experience of driving it. The primary difference between Tesla’s white and black interior isn’t the aesthetic but the feeling of sitting in the vehicle. That is both literal and figurative.

Below, I have explained 5 differences between the black and white interiors that might impact your choice.

1. Tesla Black Interior vs. White Interior: Price

The main difference between Tesla’s white and black interiors is the price. The black interior comes standard, but you have to pay extra for a white interior. But since you’re paying extra, you get slightly better and more comfortable seats.

Do Teslas Have Comfortable Seats? Find out in this related and helpful article that I wrote. I laid out all the features and what exactly makes them so comfortable.

Price Difference Between Tesla’s Interiors

Probably the most significant controversy about Tesla is the price and how certain features can jack up the price tag. In 2022, the Model S is predicted to average between $94,990 to $129,990, which in part has to do with customizations. 

The price difference between a Tesla white and black interior model is $1,000. This is a departure from the norm, where black products usually cost more than white. It also reflects the additional care put into white interiors as they’re softer to the touch and don’t stain very easily.

You can watch KilowattAuto’s video where he breaks down if the $1,000 difference is worth it after a year of ownership:

On a related note, check out this awesome article I wrote called: Ultimate Guide to Owning A Tesla. See if you can relate to the many awesome facts about owning a Tesla.

One thing that stands out in the video is how beautiful the interior looks. The seats are pristine, and he shows how he cleans them to keep them in that condition. There is no denying a white interior brings a particular class to an already classy luxury car. 

Here’s another great video. This Youtuber gets a little deeper into the topic:

He addresses a couple of issues from the older models that could still be relevant in the newest Tesla Model S.

In the end, you’ll be paying more for the white interior, which could be a dealbreaker for some drivers. But as you can see from KilowattAuto, there are genuine reasons to pay extra.

While your first instinct may be to base your decision entirely on the visual elements, especially with the price gap, you might enjoy the benefits of the white interior enough to make that initial investment. 

Why is Tesla White Interior More Expensive?

Tesla’s white interior is coated with an additional hydrophobic coating to help the seats stay clean. This can add to the additional price.

Of course, adding any extra options as add-ons to vehicles also increases Tesla’s manufacturing costs, which can contribute to the higher price

2. Tesla Black Interior vs. White Interior: Interior Feel

Tesla’s white interior comes in a classic white and a cream variety. It gives a certain luxury appeal to the vehicle’s overall look, standing out regardless of the exterior color you select.

Some people have described the white seats as giving a more “futuristic” feel. Others have said that the cabin feels much bigger with white interiors.

With the black interior, you get the chic look often associated with dark leather. But it isn’t genuine leather.

What Material are Tesla Seats Made Of?

All new models feature a cruelty-free material that makes the seats 100% vegan. This vegan leather is used for all Tesla interiors, regardless of the color.

That is a claim not many car companies can give. You get all the benefits of old-fashioned, genuine leather without any of the guilt that comes with it. 

3. Tesla Black Interior vs. White Interior: Materials Used

When it comes to the materials used in Tesla’s vegan leather interiors, both the white and black options are made from sustainable and eco-friendly materials. However, there are some notable differences between the two when it comes to texture and feel.

The white interior option features a softer material that has a luxurious feel to it. This material is perfect for those Tesla owners who are looking for a light-colored interior and want to add some luxury to the overall look of their car.

The black interior option, on the other hand, features a material that has a more traditional leather seat texture. The black color gives the car a classic and sophisticated look, which is perfect for those who prefer a more traditional look in their car.

The black central armrest is a perfect match for those who love racing games.

4. Tesla Black Interior vs. White Interior: Durability

Both white and black interiors are designed to be durable and long-lasting. However, there are some key differences in durability between the two options.

The white interior option may be more prone to staining and showing dirt, as it is a lighter color. However, Tesla has made the risk of this pretty minimal by using a stain-resistant material on their white vegan leather seat.

The black interior option, on the other hand, is more resistant to stains and dirt. It may be a better option for those who are looking for a more rugged and hard-wearing interior.

5. Tesla Black Interior vs. White Interior: Maintenance

White seats are more likely to stain. To Tesla’s credit, they have made the risk of this pretty minimal. The white seats are easy to clean, and most spills can be wiped down effortlessly. Even sticky or acidic liquids won’t absorb into the fabric, which can’t be said for mesh car seats.

That doesn’t mean they’re immune to stains, though. Even without staining, dirt and grime show glaringly on the white, so regular cleaning is necessary. On the other hand, a bit of dust isn’t going to show as vividly on black.

The black seats are also designed to be easy to clean, but they may not be as resistant to stains as the white interior option. Of course, they won’t show stains as easily.

If you would like to get detailed information on How to Clean Tesla Seats check out this helpful article that I wrote.

Choosing white is already committing to cleanliness that isn’t sustainable for everyone, especially if you have a busy life where you spend long hours behind the wheel. 

Does Tesla White Interior Hold Up?

I have read many reviews of the white interior in Teslas, and the general consensus is that the seats hold up well. Since the white interior has an added hydrophic layer over it to protect the colour, the seats remain white over many months.

Even though the white may show dirt faster, it is very easy to clean and return to its pristine state.

Some people have reported that when the seats fade, they turn a yellowish color. This can potentially be a negative when compared to the black seats, which turn greyish when fading.

6. Tesla Black Interior vs. White Interior: Temperature

Temperature is another consideration. Tesla has modeled its features for convenience, and the ability to quickly cool down the car was a priority.

Black interiors will inevitably take much longer to cool, as they suck up rays and make everything from the dashboard to the steering wheel get extremely hot. 

Tesla has a feature called overheat protection. This feature keeps the interior of your vehicle cool if it is parked in the sun on a hot day. Teslas with a white interior will require less energy for overheat protection because they reflect rather than absorbing heat.

Which is Better: White or Black Interior in Tesla?

At the end of the day, the better choice depends on personal preference.

In the most recent updates to their line, the brand has sought to close the gap between their interiors. Customers don’t have to feel like they’re giving up the benefits of one or the other. But that hasn’t put the two options on equal footing. 

The table below summarizes the differences between the white and black interior.

With these slight differences, it can be helpful to compare Tesla to other manufacturers.

Even other high-end vehicles on the market haven’t managed to capture quite this mix between high-end, comfortable, stain-resistant, aesthetically pleasing, and cruelty-free.

It is another way this brand quickly becomes synonymous with the future. 

How To Clean Tesla’s White and Black Interiors

At the end of this article, you will see some additional “Clean Like a Pro” Tips. But here is some info so long. Once you have chosen what interior you want, it’s time to learn how to clean it properly. With Tesla using unique materials for the entire car, how do you safely clean them? 

Both Tesla’s white and black interiors are easy to clean. Both the seats and the dashboard require only a microfiber cloth and a mixture of water and mild, detergent-free cleaner. Once you have tested the cleaner on a hidden portion of your car, spray it, wipe it, and dry the surface thoroughly.

Natural ingredients such as vinegar or baking soda are the safest and cheapest options. Another great option would be dish soap, especially if you spilled something greasy all over your nice interior.

Some interior cleaners are specially designed for sensitive car seats. SHINE ARMOR Interior Cleaner (Amazon.com) is a simple spray cleaner you can use on everything from the pedals to the seats.

While cleaning, consider spraying the cloth rather than the car itself to ensure the cleaner doesn’t come into direct contact with the interior.

This also helps eliminate streaks. If using a wet cloth, follow it immediately with a dry microfiber cloth for best results. 

Is the White Interior in Tesla More Comfortable?

When it comes to comfort, both the white and black interiors are designed to provide a comfortable and luxurious driving experience. However, there are some key differences in the comfort of each option.

The white interior option is designed to be extra soft and comfortable, perfect for those who are looking for a more plush and luxurious driving experience. The seats are also designed to stay cool in summer, making them more comfortable to sit in during hot weather. The white interior option is perfect for long journeys.

The black interior option, on the other hand, has a more traditional leather seat texture. It may be a better option for those who are looking for a more classic and traditional driving experience. The black seats are also designed to get hot in direct sunlight, which may be less comfortable to sit in during hot weather.

It is important to note that with all Teslas, the seat covers can be changed, so you can always switch to different colors and materials according to your preference.

How Heating and Cooling Affect the Interior Materials of a Tesla

Teslas are equipped with advanced heating and cooling systems that can greatly affect the interior temperature and comfort. As you consider between the white and black interiors, it is important to take into account the features of these systems, and how they may affect your driving experience.

Heating:

Both the white and black interiors are equipped with heating systems that can quickly warm up the cabin on cold days. The white interior option is designed to stay cool in summer so you don’t have to worry about getting too hot while driving on a warm day.

Cooling:

Both the white and black interiors are equipped with cooling systems that can keep the cabin at a comfortable temperature on hot days. The black interior option, on the other hand, may get hot in direct sunlight, so it may not be as comfortable to sit in during hot weather.

Climate Control:

Teslas are also equipped with advanced climate control systems that allow you to set and maintain your desired temperature. This feature makes it possible to have a comfortable driving experience regardless of the interior color you choose.

It is important to note that the interior temperature can also be affected by other factors such as the location of the car, the time of day, and the weather conditions. It is always best to take a test drive and experience the heating and cooling systems in person before making a decision.

Additionally, the car’s glass roof can also affect the temperature of the interior, the glass roof can either retain or reflect the heat, so it is important to consider how it will affect the interior temperature of your car.

Overall, while choosing the interior color of your car, it is important to consider the heating and cooling systems, climate control, and the glass roof to make sure you have the most comfortable driving experience.

“Clean Like a Pro” Tips:

To help readers keep their vehicles looking like new, here are some tips for maintaining and cleaning the interiors of your Tesla.

Stain-Busting 101

To remove stains on your white vegan leather seats, try using a mixture of warm water and a non-detergent soap in a circular motion with a soft cloth or baby wipes. For tough stains, you can also try using a magic eraser or a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they may damage the seat covers.

Prevent Dye Transfer

To prevent dye transfer from clothing, such as blue jeans, onto your white upholstery, treat the area with a leather shield like Gyeon Leather Shield. This will create a barrier that will prevent any dye transfer onto your white seats, as well as protect them from any spills or dirt.

Keep it Lint-Free

Use a lint-free cloth to wipe down your seats, door panels, and dashboard. Lint from regular cloths can stick to the surfaces and leave a dirty look, which is not what you want for your Tesla’s interior.

Regular Maintenance

Regularly cleaning your car’s interior will keep it looking like new. For general cleaning, a soft cloth and a bucket of warm water will do the trick. For more detailed cleaning, check out the cleaning section of the owner’s manual or watch some youtube videos on how to clean your Tesla’s interior.

Personal Touch

Lastly, it is important to remember that personal preference plays a big role in the maintenance and cleaning of your Tesla’s interior. Some people prefer to keep their cars looking brand new while others prefer a more vintage look. Whatever your preference, good luck and happy cleaning!

Do Jeans Stain Tesla White Seats?

Wearing denim may potentially cause staining on the light-colored upholstery in your Tesla’s white interior. While it may seem like a small issue, these stains can be difficult to remove and may permanently damage the seats. So, if you want to maintain the pristine look of your Tesla’s white interior, it’s advisable to avoid wearing dark-colored clothing such as jeans.

But what if you really love wearing jeans? Don’t worry! You don’t have to give up your favorite pair just because of your car’s interior color. You can always opt for Tesla’s black interior, which is less prone to visible stains and easier to maintain.

Ultimately, whether you go for white or black depends on your personal preference and lifestyle choices. Just remember that whatever color you choose, proper care and maintenance are crucial in keeping your Tesla looking brand new for years to come.

Can You Spill Red Wine On White Tesla Seats?

A few years ago, Elon Musk tweeted that the white interiors of Teslas were protected, even against red wine spills. This is because the white interiors have an extra hydrophobic layer on them that prevent liquids from seeping into the seats.

Several people tested out this claim, and were happily surprised at how easily red wine spills could be wiped off the white seats.

Of course, I wouldn’t spill red wine on my Tesla seats just to prove that I can. But it’s nice to know, should an accident happen, that your seats should survive it!

Note that cleaning up any spills immediately after they happen can also help prevent stains from setting in.

While black interiors may require less maintenance when it comes to spills and stains, ultimately, the winner between Tesla white interior vs black is a matter of personal preference and style.

Do Black Tesla Interiors Get Hot?

Black Tesla interiors can become quite warm in direct sunlight, but there are ways to mitigate this issue.

Firstly, consider investing in a windshield sunshade or parking your car in a shaded area. This will prevent direct sunlight from hitting your dashboard and seats, keeping them cooler for longer periods of time.

Additionally, turning on the air conditioning before getting into your car can help reduce the temperature inside. Tesla’s overheat protection feature lets this happen automatically, ensuring that your car is cool when you climb inside.

Does Tesla Come With Floor Mats?

Not all Teslas come with factory floor mats. You’ll have to include the premium interior package when ordering your vehicle if you want floormats included.

What Is Partial Premium Interior Tesla?

The Tesla Model 3 Standard Range RWD and the Standard Range Plus RWD can be purchased with a Partial Premium Interior.

You’ll love the Partial Premium Interior Tesla because it offers a stylish and comfortable option but is more affordable than the Premium Interior.

This interior package comes in both black and white options, so you can choose which one suits your taste better.

The partial premium package includes features like heated front seats, power-adjustable front seats, an upgraded audio system, and a 30-day trial of Tesla Premium Connectivity.

In comparison, the Premium Interior includes floor mats, LED fog lamps, 1-year Tesla Premium Connectivity, heated front and rear seats, and an even better sound system.

Check out these 20 great gift ideas for yourself or a Tesla fanboy.

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