car color trends

Car Color Trends 2023: Hottest Shades & Popular Paints

By Joshua JonesFebruary 23, 2026

Color trends in the automotive industry not only reflect aesthetic preferences but also mirror societal shifts and technological advancements. As we delve into corralled Chrome and carbon black, let's uncover the hottest hues gracing highways and showrooms worldwide.

_colorscontinue to play a significant role in consumer choices, with trends swaying towards sustainability, technology, and individual expression.

Neutrals Imbue Power and Sophistication

Neutral colors seem to have surpassed their perceived mundane image, now radiating power, sophistication, and individuality. Shades like matte black and white are no longer the only players; other neutrals, such as dark greys and aluminum, are climbing the popularity charts.

the purple car is parked in front of some other cars and it's colors are different

For instance, Jeep's commitment to Matte Black included it in their Wrangler and Gladiator special editions, while Audi's Aluminum Misano Red created a striking contrast for their SQ7 RS Q8, signifying their embrace of neurodiversity.

Black: The New Black - Matte and Metals

Matte Black, once a reserved hue for tuning enthusiasts, has become a trending factory option. Luxury marques like Rolls-Royce and Mercedes-Maybach offer it, signifying extravagance and exclusivity.

an iphone screen showing the different colors of cars in each color, and how they are used

On the other end of the spectrum, metals and stainless steel accents are making a statement. Range Rover's aluminum finishing was lauded for its aesthetic and durability, further popularizing metallic hues.

Grey: A Timeless Classic

Grey, formerly considered dull, is now perceived as chic and modern. Lexus' Ultra Sonic Blue Mica, BMW's San Remo Metallic, and Porsche's Jet Black Metallic are just a few grey takes thriving in the market.

Even Tesla joined the contingent with their Deep Carbon Metallic Frost, proving grey's enduring appeal.

an orange and blue sports car is shown from above on a gray background with the hood down

ON VOLUDE / BASF’s 2023-2024 Automotive Color Trends Collection

a brown sports car with gold emblem on it's hood is shown in color swatches

a teal colored sports car is parked on the street

two pictures of a purple sports car parked on the side of a road next to a park

a blue car parked in front of a brick wall

fined and Techno-Colorful

Sustainability has incubated some fine colors rooted in nature's palette. Meanwhile, tech-influenced hues bring futuristic vibes to the automotive sector.

are taking center stage, championing companies' eco-efforts and consumers' sustainability concerns.

Green: Nature'slatest Artwork

Green hues mimic nature's verdancy, with colors like Forest Green, Amazon camouflage, and Olive[]> becoming mainstream. Volkswagen's ID.4 in Oryx White/Green, and Tesla's Midrange Blue}$. recently announced are testaments to this trend.

a purple car is shown in this ad for pantone's new color scheme

the color chart for cars is shown in black and white, with different colors to choose from

Fiat's eco-friendliness, paired with )anvases their environmental credentials, further popularizing green tones. Meanwhile, Range Rover's Verdi Green, "

Off-road enthusiasts eagerly adopted hues like Hazmat Yellow and Bright Orange, while electric carmakers showcased bold, futuristic colors like Azure Blue and Birthday Gold to differentiate them from traditional gas-powered vehicles.

BMW's Bright Blue and, Toyota's Supersonic Red, and Audi's Neon Green confirmed the industry's leaning towards vibrant,Tony-Colorful