Once popular car colour could become extinct as drivers fear high depreciation

A new study has revealed that the UK roads could be extinct from a number of cars in once-popular colours as a growing number of Brits choose dull alternatives. Whilst it is understandable that many drivers consider factors such as the fuel economy, boot size and amount of standard equipment of their next car, it seems a surprising amount of Brits play it safe when choosing what colour they want their next car to be. As a result, Mark Wilkinson, managing director of Heritage Car Insurance, highlighted that fewer drivers are choosing vibrant shades for their vehicle, prioritising safe bets such as grey.

He said: "British roads are losing their colour, and drivers are starting to take notice. As manufacturers focus on neutral shades like grey, black, and white, the variety that once made the streets more vibrant is fading fast. Prioritising mass-market appeal and resale value over individuality, carmakers are producing increasingly uniform designs, with once-distinctive brand colours disappearing and cars looking more alike than ever."

With motoring bills on the rise, many drivers are currently doing everything they can to prevent losing thousands in depreciation when it's time to sell their car on the used market.

One of the easiest ways to maintain a used car's value is by choosing a model in a plain colour, such as grey, white or black, which typically have a wider appeal than brighter shades.

However, the rise in dull car colours has caused many car brands to drop vibrant shades from their range, with Heritage Car Insurance warning that some colours may disappear completely on new cars in the coming years.

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

According to a study conducted by the company, cream-coloured cars are set to become extinct the soonest, warning that new vehicles painted in the shade could disappear by the end of the year.

Previously regarded as a more premium shade to white, which was regarded as rather cheap-looking, many popular cars of the 1950s and 60s were sold in cream.

However, precious few new cars are still sold in this shade, with low-cost models like the Dacia Duster and Toyota Aygo X being most likely to use the colour.