Abstract: Microfiber polyurethane synthetic leather (MPSL), characterized by its biomimetic threedimensional fiber network structure, has emerged as a key material amid the “leather-free” trend in automotive interiors. Taking specific application scenarios within automotive seating as the starting point, this paper systematically reviews the definition, classification, structural characteristics and preparation processes of microfiber leather. It elaborates on the technical requirements for automotive-grade microfiber leather from the perspectives of safety performance, durability, comfort and aesthetic quality, and traces the phased evolution of its market application in automotive seating. On this basis, this paper critically examines the existing performance mismatches and technical bottlenecks in automotive-grade microfiber leather and presents prospects for future research directions and industrial development trends, aiming to provide academic references and industrial support for material optimization and scenario-specific application of microfiber leather in automotive interiors.

Key words: microfiber synthetic leather; automotive seat; manufacturing process; performance requirement; future trends