The Most Popular Truck Colors Over the Years
Truck colors have changed incrementally over the years, but certain colors have dominated roads, driveways, and building sites decade after decade. A truck’s color isn’t merely paint—it’s a statement of utility, personality, and heritage. Observing trends unfurl decade by decade, we see how buyers are attracted to specific colors, and the way those choices reveal practicality and beauty.
White – Always Number One
White has been the top choice among the most popular truck colors for over two decades. Sometimes as high as 30–35% of all new trucks sold in the U.S. were white, illustrating just how pervasive this preference has been. It is well liked because it is practical—dirt conceals more easily than dark colors, radiates heat in warm climates, and presents a professional, clean-cut image.
During the 1990s, white began its ascendancy as contractor and fleet work trucks made it the obvious choice. During the 2010s, white was no longer just for utility—it was a fashionable choice for personal trucks, especially with black trim or chrome accents. Even today, about one out of every three trucks on the road is white, proof of its endurance.
Black – Brazen Rise in Popularity
Black has had one of the steepest rises of the past two decades. In the early 2000s, only about 10% of trucks were black, but since then that number often moves into the 20–25% zone. Black conveys strength, toughness, and premium draw, so most top trims—luxury and sport models—use black as an option.
It does require more upkeep, with dust and scratches being apparent, but for many owners, that’s what it takes to get the payoff of having a vehicle that appears powerful and commanding. Black trucks are especially favored by city buyers who want their trucks to be workhorses by day but desirable fashion statements by night.
Silver – A Consistent Classic
Silver was at its peak popularity in the early 2000s, when nearly 25% of trucks sold at the time were in metallic or silver. Its share has fallen somewhat since then, but always remained in the 15–18% range now.
Silver trucks occupy a middle ground—they’re new and shiny but less high-maintenance than black. As truck models became more aerodynamic and chiseled during the 2000s and 2010s, silver highlighted these lines beautifully, making it a safe, stylish option for personal and business purchases.
Gray – The Rising Contender
Gray, previously overshadowed by silver, has taken off in the past decade. In the early 2000s, less than 5% of trucks were gray, but now that figure is nearer 12–15%. New colors such as graphite and charcoal make trucks tough yet elegant, attractive to individuals who desire a classy appearance without having to subject it to the high-maintenance cost of black.
The matte and satin finishes that became so popular during the late 2010s also played their part in making gray so hot. Gray, to most consumers today, is an up-to-date option that easily crosses boundaries from work to lifestyle.
Blue – Always Chique
Blue has held 7–10% of the truck market for decades. It was never a dominant choice, but it remains steady because it offers diversity and distinction. Dark navy blues project a professional, commanding presence, while brighter metallic blues project a vibrant, youthful appearance.
In the early 1990s, blue trucks were mainstream, especially with mid-size pickups. Over time, neutral colors took over, but blue never went out of style—it continues to appeal to those who desire something timeless but distinctive.
Red – The Statement Color
Red has typically represented around 8–10% of trucks sold. In the 1980s and 1990s, it was run-of-the-mill fare, especially for sport models. These days, deeper reds like burgundy or maroon are more common than fire-engine reds, introducing a touch of sophistication to the bluster of trucks.
Red cars are often chosen by drivers who want to be seen. While they do not head the sales charts, they are very visible on the road and make them popular for those with extroverted personalities.
Specialty and Niche Colors
Green, brown, orange, and even yellow have had their time in the sun, but they tend to account for less than 5% of all trucks sold in any given year. They appeal to niche markets—outdoorsmen who like earthy greens, adventurers who are drawn to bold oranges, or collectors who desire unique factory colors.
Over the decades, these colors rise and fall with fashion. For example, forest green trucks were on their peak in the late 1990s, while matte army green regained popularity in the recent decades.
A Quick Look at the Trends
- 1990s: Red and white were running the show, with blue and green also contenders.
- 2000s: Silver and black rose sharply, with white still on top.
- 2010s: Silver and black were riding high, with silver falling somewhat.
- 2020s: White remains monarch, black is a close second, and gray rises higher in popularity.
Today, about three out of four trucks sold are white, black, silver, or gray, showing just how pervasive the neutrals are. But red and blue hold firm, and specialty colors keep matters lively for consumers who desire to stand out.
Conclusion
Truck colors are painting a picture not just of individual buyers but of truck culture itself through the decades. White is tradition and practicality, black is boldness, silver is balance, and gray is contemporary style. Blue and red are personality, and specialty colors are flair.
The percentages decade by decade reveal changing tastes but also function to establish that certain choices—white and black—never fall from favor. Ultimately, truck color is not merely paint—it’s an extension of identity, lifestyle, and pride of ownership.
