Most cars on the road today are shades of gray, black, silver, or some muted blue. This isn’t a coincidence—it’s a trend, and it’s a missed opportunity. While neutral colors may seem safe, they contribute to a monotonous automotive landscape. The real question is why so few people choose vibrant paint options when they’re available.
The Problem with Neutrality
The current preference for bland colors isn’t just about practicality. It’s a self-reinforcing cycle: buyers avoid bright colors because they want to blend in, reinforcing the demand for neutral tones and further discouraging manufacturers from offering bolder options. Some people also claim brighter shades attract unwanted attention, like from law enforcement, but that’s a secondary concern. The more significant issue is the loss of personality in car design.
Manufacturers That Still Offer Excitement
Despite the trend, several automakers still provide compelling color choices. Toyota, for example, offers the Corolla Cross Hybrid in Cavalry Blue with a black roof, a $500 upgrade that transforms a standard vehicle into something eye-catching. Mazda’s Soul Red Crystal, available on models like the CX-5, is a $595 option that uses a three-layer process to achieve a deep, almost liquid-like crimson.
Nissan also stands out with the Frontier pickup, offering colors like Afterburner Orange and Citrus Strike (both $450) that recall the bold hues of the 1990s. The Nissan Leaf’s Seabreeze Blue Pearl, though an $800 upgrade, is another standout option.
Chevrolet and Kia are also experimenting with bolder colors on their smaller vehicles. The Chevrolet Trailblazer comes in Marina Blue Metallic ($395), while the Kia K4 hatchback GT-Line Turbo offers Sparkling Yellow for the same price. Subaru’s Crosstrek Hybrid offers Citron Yellow Pearl, keeping the tradition of vibrant colors alive.
Why It Matters
Choosing a unique color isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about supporting automakers that dare to be different and pushing back against the trend of automotive uniformity. If more people opted for vibrant paint options, manufacturers would respond by offering even more exciting choices.
The current situation isn’t sustainable: cars are already becoming indistinguishable from one another. The solution is simple: buy the boldest color available. Not just for yourself, but for the enjoyment of everyone else on the road.
Ultimately, the decision is yours. But remember that every neutral-colored car contributes to a less interesting world. Choose color—and let automakers know you demand it.
