Automakers made a deliberate return to vibrant color options in 2025, breaking from the long-held dominance of grayscale finishes. While neutral tones remain popular, manufacturers like Audi, BMW, and Chevrolet are increasingly catering to buyers who want their vehicles to stand out. This shift isn’t random; it reflects a broader trend towards self-expression and individuality in automotive design.
The Persistence of Neutrals
Despite the rise of bolder choices, achromatic colors – white, black, silver, and gray – still dominate the market. BASF Coatings data from 2024 shows that over 83% of car buyers opt for these shades, a pattern that continued into 2025. This preference is particularly strong in regions like Europe and Asia-Pacific, where black remains a dominant choice. However, the growing demand for color suggests this may be changing.
The Rising Tide of Color
More than 15 new hues debuted on vehicles worldwide this year, ranging from subtle variations to striking shades of blue, green, and purple. This expansion of color options signals that manufacturers are finally responding to consumer desire for more personality in their vehicles. Here’s a look at some of the most notable new colors:
Audi: Malpelo Blue
Audi introduced Malpelo Blue on its A6 E-Tron and Q3, a shade that sits between teal and turquoise. The color offers a refreshing alternative to the brand’s bolder blue and green options, providing a harmonious blend of both worlds.
BMW: Avus Blue & Grigio Telesto
BMW resurrected Avus Blue, inspired by the E36 era, for its M340i Jahre Edition. Grigio Telesto, a sophisticated gray, gained traction on models like the M5 and M2, proving that even neutral tones can make a statement.
Cadillac: Drift Metallic
Cadillac’s new Drift Metallic green is a subtle yet refined option for the CT5 sedan. The understated shade complements the vehicle’s black accents, particularly on the aggressive CT5-V Blackwing.
Chevrolet: Hysteria Purple & Roswell Green
Chevrolet pushed the boundaries with Hysteria Purple and Roswell Green for the Corvette C8. Paired with bronze wheels, Hysteria Purple is a standout choice, while Roswell Green offers a lighter, more approachable shade of green.
Ford: Sinister Bronze
Ford’s Sinister Bronze accent package adds a touch of flair to the Bronco, Bronco Sport, and Mustang. While not a full-body color, the bronze accents provide a bold contrast when paired with black or white.
Kia: Terrain Brown
Kia’s Terrain Brown for the Telluride embodies a growing trend towards earth tones. The shade shifts between damp sand and muddy aesthetics depending on the light, making it versatile for both urban and off-road environments.
Lexus: Wind
Lexus’s Wind hue is an exclusive silvery white finish for the limited IS500 F Sport Ultimate Edition. With only 500 examples planned for the US, this color adds to the model’s exclusivity.
Morgan: Armeria Lilac
Morgan Motor Company offers Armeria Lilac, a pinkish purple, on its Supersports model. The unique shade stands out among the brand’s other vibrant color options.
Nissan: Midnight Purple
Nissan brought back Midnight Purple for the 2026 Z, a color-changing paint option reminiscent of the iconic R34 GT-R. The shade shifts between black, purple, and green depending on the light.
Porsche: Olive Neo
Porsche introduced Olive Neo for the limited 911 Spirit 70, pairing the exterior with gold badges, black accents, and a retro tartan interior. The model is limited to 1,500 examples worldwide.
Renault: Hauts-de-France Green & Pop Yellow
Renault’s Hauts-de-France Green for the 4 E-Tech and Pop Yellow for the 5 E-Tech represent the brand’s playful approach to color. The shades add a touch of vibrancy to the French automaker’s compact models.
Toyota: Everest, Karashi Yellow, Wave Maker
Toyota expanded its TRD Pro range with Everest and Wave Maker, while the Prius Nightshade received a new Karashi Yellow option. The bold colors provide a welcome alternative to the brand’s more conservative offerings.
What to Expect in 2026
According to BASF, neutral tones will likely remain dominant in 2026, particularly with the growing popularity of rugged SUVs. However, brighter hues like yellow are expected to gain traction, especially in electric vehicle design.
“Especially in electric vehicle design, these are reflecting a shift toward harmonious, optimistic color palettes.”
The automotive color landscape is evolving, with manufacturers increasingly recognizing the importance of offering options that reflect individual style and preference.
