Axalta’s 2026-27 Automotive Color Trends

Axalta released its 2026-2027 Global Automotive Color Trends Report, offering vehicle manufacturers and designers a forward-looking view of the consumer, cultural, and design influences expected to shape automotive color over the next three to five years.

Axalta’s report explores how changing consumer expectations around wellness, authenticity, technology, sustainability, and personal expression are influencing the future of vehicle color. 

As automotive brands seek new ways to differentiate themselves and connect with customers, color is increasingly becoming a tool for communicating vehicle character, brand identity, and emotional value.

Four trends that are expected to influence vehicle color design are Beyond Quiet, Deep Dive, Luxury 2.0, and Beyond Ordinary. 

Beyond Quiet: Strength in Softness explores the evolution of pastel-inspired hues into more sophisticated, premium color expressions. These softer shades reflect growing consumer demand for calm, optimism, and approachability while maintaining confidence and contemporary appeal.

Luxury 2.0 Beyond the Pomp & Into the Soul highlights the rise of deeper reds and browns that communicate authenticity, craftsmanship, and emotional richness. These colors reflect a shift toward a more personal and human-centered interpretation of luxury and premium design.

Deep Dive: Just Beyond Depth examines the convergence of technology and nature through colors that evoke trust, stability, innovation, and the growing appreciation for natural influences. These hues align closely with themes shaping the mobility industry, including electrification and digital transformation.

Beyond Ordinary: The Power of Essentials demonstrates how traditional whites, blacks, grays, and silvers continue to serve as the foundation of automotive color while evolving through advanced effects, finishes, and nuanced undertones that create greater differentiation and premium appeal.

“Color is no longer just an aesthetic choice. It has become a tool for brands to differentiate themselves and promote emotional connection,” said Radovan Dimovski, Global Product Manager of Color. “Our 2026-2027 trends reflect a changing marketplace where consumers are looking for color experiences that balance optimism, innovation, comfort, and individuality.”