What Is the New Paint Finish on Cars Called?

The trend you’re seeing is most commonly called a matte finish. Automakers and detailers also use closely related terms like satin (a slightly less flat look), and brand-specific names such as BMW’s “Frozen,” Mercedes-Benz’s “Magno,” and “Stealth” when the effect comes from a matte paint-protection film rather than paint itself. Below is a clear look at what it is, how it’s made, how to care for it, and whether it’s right for you.

What Automakers and Owners Mean by “New Finish”

Over the past few model years, more manufacturers have offered low-gloss exterior options from the factory, and more owners have opted for matte or satin films to achieve the same aesthetic. While the look feels new, the technology is an evolution of modern clearcoats and protective films, refined for durability and mainstream use.

Names You’ll Hear and What They Mean

These terms are widely used by manufacturers, dealers, and the aftermarket to describe the low-gloss look. Here’s how they typically break down.

• Matte: A very low-gloss finish that scatters light; often around single-digit to low double-digit gloss units (GU) at a 60° measurement per industry practice.
• Satin: Slightly more sheen than matte—think soft glow rather than flat; commonly higher GU than matte but below conventional gloss.
• Frozen/Magno/etc.: OEM brand names for factory matte programs (e.g., BMW “Frozen,” Mercedes “Magno”).
• Stealth: Often used to describe the effect achieved with matte paint-protection film (PPF) over standard gloss paint (e.g., “Stealth PPF”).
• Flat: A colloquial term sometimes used interchangeably with matte, though “flat” can suggest even lower sheen.

Though the terminology varies, all of these labels point to finishes designed to reduce specular reflection, creating a distinctive, low-sheen surface.

How the Matte/Satin Look Is Achieved

There are multiple ways to get the low-gloss aesthetic, each with different costs, durability, and repair implications.

• Factory matte clearcoat: A specially formulated clear with “matting” agents (often silica-based) that create micro-texture to diffuse light. It’s sprayed like conventional clear but behaves differently in repair and care.
• Matte paint-protection film (PPF): A clear urethane film with a matte topcoat applied over glossy paint to convert it to a satin or matte look; also adds impact and abrasion protection. Often branded “Stealth.”
• Vinyl wrap: A cosmetic film available in matte or satin finishes. It’s generally thinner and less protective than PPF but offers more colors/effects at lower cost.
• Specialized refinish systems: Body shops can replicate matte/satin with refinish clearcoats using flattening agents, following manufacturer-specific mixing ratios and procedures.

Factory matte clearcoats deliver the most “integrated” appearance, while matte PPF offers reversibility and protection. Vinyl wraps maximize color variety and cost flexibility.

Care and Maintenance

Matte and satin surfaces demand different maintenance than gloss. Use products formulated specifically for low-sheen finishes to avoid creating shiny spots or uneven texture.

1. Wash with pH-balanced, matte-safe shampoos; avoid waxes or polishes that add gloss or contain abrasives.
2. Blot, don’t rub, when removing bird droppings or bug residue; use matte-safe cleaners promptly to prevent etching.
3. Skip machine polishing on matte paint; you cannot “buff out” defects without adding unwanted shine. For PPF, follow film-maker guidelines.
4. Protect with matte-specific sealants or ceramic coatings designed for low-gloss finishes; they add repellency without increasing gloss.
5. Test any product on an inconspicuous area first, and follow OEM/film-maker care guides for soap types and pressure-washer limits.

With the right regimen, these finishes can stay consistent and uniform; the key is avoiding products and processes that change surface texture or sheen.

Pros and Cons

Before choosing matte/satin, weigh the aesthetic appeal against ownership realities.

• Pros: Striking, contemporary look; reduced glare; less visibility of fine swirl marks compared with high-gloss finishes; matte PPF adds tangible protection.
• Cons: Incompatible with traditional polishing; localized repairs can be complex and costly; fingerprints and water spots can show; product selection is more limited and specific.

For many buyers the distinctive appearance outweighs the extra care; others may prefer gloss for ease of maintenance and repair.

Where You’ll See It Today

Factory matte options have expanded across segments, and many brands offer them on performance or design-focused trims.

• BMW: “Frozen” finishes on M and select models.
• Mercedes-Benz: “Magno” matte options via Manufaktur/Designo.
• Hyundai/Kia/Genesis: Multiple factory matte colors (e.g., “Serenity White Matte,” “Matterhorn Gray”).
• Porsche, Audi, Lexus, and others: Select matte or satin shades on performance and special-order lines.
• Aftermarket: Matte “Stealth” PPF conversions from brands like XPEL, 3M, and SunTek; cosmetic matte vinyl wraps in wide color ranges.

Availability varies by region and model year, but the low-gloss trend is now mainstream, with both OEM and aftermarket pathways.

Is It Right for You?

Think about your priorities: If you want a standout, camera-friendly look and are willing to follow a tailored maintenance routine—or prefer the reversibility of matte PPF—it’s an excellent choice. If easy DIY repairs and conventional detailing are priorities, a gloss finish (possibly protected by clear PPF) may suit you better.

Summary

The “new” paint finish you’re seeing on modern cars is called matte, often presented in slightly higher-sheen satin variants and marketed under names like Frozen, Magno, or Stealth (when achieved with matte PPF). It’s created either with a factory matte clearcoat or by applying matte paint-protection film or vinyl. The look is striking and contemporary, but it requires matte-specific care and can be more complex to repair. If you value visual impact and don’t mind a dedicated maintenance routine, matte or satin can be a rewarding choice.

What is the latest car paint technology?

And is wasted. The new process uses a spinning cylindrical. Head which has tiny channels that sling out tiny paint droplets.

What is the new finish on cars called?

The most prevalent “new” car paint finish is matte finish, also known as flat or satin paint, which has a non-reflective, light-absorbing surface compared to traditional glossy paint. This unique, modern aesthetic has increased in popularity, with many luxury and upgraded trims offering it as a factory option, though it requires specialized care.
 
What it is:

• Non-reflective: Unlike glossy paint, which has a reflective, “glassy” surface, matte paint has a jagged microscopic texture that scatters light, giving it a dull or flat appearance. 
• Satin vs. Matte: The term “matte” can broadly refer to any less-reflective finish, including semi-gloss or satin finishes, which offer a subtle sheen. 

Why it’s popular:

• Unique Aesthetic: It provides a sleek, modern, and understated look that stands out. 
• Hides Imperfections: The light-scattering properties of a matte finish help to hide minor scratches and imperfections that would be more visible on a glossy surface. 
• Increased Availability: It is now offered as an option on many luxury vehicles and upgraded trim packages, whereas previously it was more unusual. 

Things to consider:

• Specialized Care: Matte finishes require unique cleaning and protection methods; they cannot be polished to restore shine, as this would flatten the surface and make it reflective. 
• Durability: While practical for hiding minor issues, some matte paints may be less durable than gloss paints and can collect swirls or other imperfections over time. 
• Cost: Factory-applied matte paint options can be expensive, though more affordable options are becoming available from some manufacturers. 

What are the different car paint finishes?

Car paint finishes include gloss, matte, metallic, and pearlescent. Gloss is shiny and reflective, matte offers a flat, non-reflective look, metallic contains tiny metal flakes for a sparkling effect, and pearlescent adds depth with iridescent layers.

What is the new gray on cars called?

The new “grey” color you’re likely seeing is a type of non-metallic, matte, or flat grey, which is often called Nardo Grey (though it’s an Audi name and many brands have similar colors). Other similar popular grey colors include Mopar’s Destroyer Grey, Toyota’s Cement, and Porsche’s Chalk, all fitting the trend of earthy and muted shades for modern vehicles.
 
Key characteristics of this trend:

• Flat or Matte Finish: This grey often lacks the metallic flakes and heavy gloss of traditional car paints, creating a pure, confident look. 
• “Primer” or “Battleship” Look: The color can resemble clear-coated primer or the gray of naval vessels, symbolizing strength and resilience. 
• Earthy and Muted Tones: The trend is part of a broader move towards more natural, earthy colors. 
• Brand-Specific Names: While Nardo Grey is popular, other automakers have their own versions, like: 
  • Audi: Nardo Grey 
  • Mopar: Destroyer Grey 
  • Toyota: Cement 
  • Porsche: Chalk 
  • Subaru: Grey Khaki 
  • Volvo: Vapor Grey 

Why is it popular?

• Debate and Icon Status: Nardo Grey became an iconic part of automotive history, sparking debate and a following. 
• Understated Appeal: The color’s simplicity and confidence appeal to many, while also being a “cool to be dull” aesthetic, as one source puts it. 
• “Earthy High-Tech”: Some designers describe these types of colors as “earthy high-tech,” appealing to younger demographics like Gen-Xers and Millennials.