The UK's Most Popular Car Colours and What They Mean for Resale

Grey is the UK's most popular new car colour, and has topped the chart every year since 2018 according to SMMT registration figures. Black, white and blue are also common, while green has been growing in popularity. Mainstream colours usually make a car easier to sell later.

Which car colours are most popular in the UK?

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) tracks the colours of new cars registered each year. Grey has led for eight years in a row, with black, white and blue close behind. You can see the latest figures on the SMMT website.

Which colours are growing in popularity?

Green has climbed the chart in recent years, helped by new shades on popular small cars and electric models. Warmer metallic shades and two-tone paint, where the roof is a contrasting colour, have also become more common.

Does car colour affect resale value?

It can. Grey, black, white and silver suit the widest range of buyers, so cars in these colours tend to sell more easily. Bright or unusual colours can take longer to sell on everyday cars, but they can suit sports cars, convertibles and small city cars, where buyers want something eye-catching. Our guide to cars that hold their value covers the other factors.

Which colours are easiest to keep clean?

Mid-greys and silver hide light dirt and small scratches well, which helps on muddy rural roads and during the gritting season. Black looks sharp when clean but shows swirl marks and dust more easily. White shows road grime but hides light scratches. Our car care pages have tips on keeping paintwork in good condition.

What should I think about when choosing a colour?

• How long you will keep the car. If you change cars every few years, a mainstream colour is the safer choice.

• Where you drive and park. Darker colours can show dust and swirl marks; lighter ones show road grime.

• Paint type. Metallic and pearlescent paints can cost more to repair if damaged. Matte finishes need special care.

• Seeing it in daylight. Colours can look very different outdoors than in photos or under showroom lights.

Common questions

Is grey a boring choice?

It is popular because it is practical and easy to sell. There are many shades, from light silver-grey to dark gunmetal.

Do colourful cars cost more to insure?

Insurers do not usually price on paint colour, though a non-standard colour change or wrap should be declared to your insurer.

Should I wrap my car instead of repainting it?

A wrap can change the look without touching the original paint and can be removed later. Tell your insurer and the DVLA if it changes the main colour of the car.

Looking for your next car in Barnsley?

anycolourcar.com is based in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. Browse our cars in stock, get a value for your current car through sell your motor, or call sales on 01226 574410.

Updated October 2026.