Once you have chosen your carbon, the next decision shapes the whole feel of the wheel: gloss or matte. Both use the same real carbon underneath, so this is purely about appearance and how the surface interacts with light.

Gloss: Deep and Dramatic

A gloss finish adds a clear, reflective top layer that gives the carbon depth and shine. The weave or marbling looks richer, colors appear more saturated, and the surface catches light from every angle. Gloss is the classic show-car look.

The trade-off is that a shiny surface shows fingerprints, dust, and glare more readily. On a steering wheel, most of the gloss carbon sits on the spokes and trim rather than the grip area, so smudging is less of an issue than on a center console or dash panel.

Matte: Subtle and Modern

A matte finish has a flat, satin surface that diffuses light instead of reflecting it. The carbon pattern looks softer and more understated, and the overall effect is clean and contemporary. Matte tends to hide fingerprints and minor dust better than gloss.

Many drivers choose matte when they want the upgrade to feel integrated and low-key rather than flashy, or when their interior already leans toward muted, modern tones. It has become especially popular on blacked-out and stealth-themed builds.

How to Decide

There is no wrong answer here, only the look that fits your taste and your cabin. A few guidelines:

• Choose gloss for maximum depth, shine, and a dramatic, show-ready presence.
• Choose matte for a subtle, modern look that plays down glare and fingerprints.
• Match your interior: glossy piano-black trim pairs naturally with gloss, while matte or brushed accents pair well with matte.
• Think about sunlight: if your car sees a lot of direct sun, matte reduces reflections in your line of sight.

Since finishes read differently in person, the showroom is the best place to compare them, and you can design your own to preview each option against your other choices.

The Function Stays Identical

Whichever finish you pick, the wheel is still a direct OEM fitment rebuilt around your factory wheel, so the airbag, paddle shifters, cruise, and multifunction controls carry over untouched. The finish changes nothing about how the wheel mounts or operates. Both finishes work with woven or forged carbon and with leather or Alcantara grips, so you can mix and match freely. Both are handcrafted to order, start at $749, and come with a 2-year warranty.

Keeping Your Finish Looking Its Best

Neither finish is demanding, but a little routine care keeps them sharp. For gloss, a quick wipe with a soft microfiber cloth removes fingerprints and keeps the shine crisp. For matte, stick to gentle cleaners and avoid glossy protectants or polishes, which can leave uneven shiny patches on the flat surface. In both cases, keeping the wheel out of prolonged direct sun helps preserve the finish over the long term. Because the carbon is finished properly rather than wrapped, there are no seams or edges to lift, so upkeep stays simple.

Common Questions

Does gloss or matte hold up better over time? Both are durable when cared for. Gloss shows smudges more easily, while matte hides them, but neither is fragile in normal use.

Can I mix a gloss finish with a matte interior? You can, and some drivers like the contrast. If you prefer a seamless look, match the finish to your existing trim.

Is matte harder to clean? Not harder, just different. Use a gentle cleaner and a soft cloth, and avoid harsh polishes meant for gloss surfaces.