What Your Car Color Says About You: Does It Match Your Personality?

Written by Morten Lyhne Petersen

Mar.26 - 2025 1:41 PM CET

Autos
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Damitha Rukshan / Shutterstock.com
Ever wondered what the color means?

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Car colors are more than just a matter of aesthetics – they often reflect deeper psychological and emotional layers.

Each color carries its own symbolic meaning and can offer subtle insights into the owner's mindset or values.

However, the choice is rarely entirely free, as market availability and economic factors also come into play.

Still, the color of a car can say something about who we are – or who we aspire to be.

Every year, BASF, the world’s largest chemical company, analyzes car color trends

  • The so-called achromatic colors dominate the global market: white (37% of cars), black (22%), and grey (17%).

  • It's difficult to draw clear conclusions, as the choice of car color isn’t just about personal taste—it’s largely influenced by economics.

  • “White or black is often chosen because they are the cheapest options,” explains Gabrielle Marie Lourenço, consultant and expert in colorimetry.

Car colors – not like clothing colors

Foto: K-FK/Shutterstock

  • Unlike clothing, where all colors generally cost the same, car colors depend on a variety of factors.

  • This means a car’s color doesn’t necessarily reflect a person’s personality.

  • However, for around a quarter of car owners who do choose their own color, it’s about expressing their personality.

  • Still, one should be cautious about reading too much into it, as “consumers may simply be adapting to the market and choosing from a very limited selection,” the expert adds.

White

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  • Symbol of purity, simplicity, and clarity

  • Often associated with new beginnings or neutrality

  • Creates a minimalist and clean impression – both modern and timeless

Green

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  • The color of balance, harmony, and connection to nature

  • Expresses freshness and renewal

  • Often chosen by those seeking peace and stability

Silver

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  • Symbol of modernity and technological finesse

  • Conveys a cool, sophisticated, and futuristic look

  • Often linked to professionalism and elegance

Pink

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  • Expression of empathy and emotional openness

  • Associated with care and gentleness

  • Often chosen by those with a warm and compassionate presence

Red

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  • Stands for energy, strength, and passion

  • Signals confidence and decisiveness

  • Often picked by those who want to stand out and be noticed

Grey

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  • Neutral and understated – a symbol of maturity and calm

  • Expresses balance between black and white

  • Often preferred by pragmatic and thoughtful individuals

Blue

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  • Represents serenity and inner balance

  • Associated with focus, calm, and trust

  • Evokes the ocean and sky – nature’s endless horizons

Orange

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  • Energy and creativity in motion

  • Radiates warmth, enthusiasm, and social openness

  • Chosen by those with a love for adventure and spontaneity

Yellow

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  • Symbol of happiness, optimism, and zest for life

  • Exudes confidence and positive energy

  • Often chosen by those who want to bring lightness and joy into their lives

Black

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  • Exudes authority, power, and sophistication

  • A classic choice, often selected for its timeless style

  • Can also signal distance, control, and anonymity