What is “rat color” and why is it called that?
Term "rat color" in the automotive industry, it refers to a whole spectrum of gray-brown shades, reminiscent of the fur color of urban rats. This is not the official name of the palette, but rather a slang expression that has taken root among car owners and tuning studios. This color is often associated with urban style, minimalism and even “industrial brutality”.
It’s interesting that in manufacturers’ catalogs you won’t find paint marked «rat color». Instead, more euphonious names are used: "metallic gray", "coffee mother of pearl", "dark beige" or "anthracite". However, in colloquial speech and on car enthusiast forums, the term “rat” is firmly attached to shades that visually resemble the dirty gray fur of rodents - especially in cloudy weather or under artificial lighting.
The popularity of this color has increased due to several factors:
- 🎨 Versatility: Suitable for both classic sedans and SUVs or hot hatches.
- 🔧 Practicality: Against this background, scratches and road dirt are less visible.
- 💰 Premium Look: many luxury brands (Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volvo) include similar shades in their signature palettes.
But not everything is so simple: the “rat” also has critics. For example, some people find it too dark or “office-y.” To figure out whether this color is right for you, let's study its varieties and features.
Official paint names and codes: how to find “rat” in catalogs
If you decide to paint your car “rat” color, it is important to understand that in car dealerships and workshops you will have to operate manufacturer codes. Each brand has its own designation for taupe shades. Below is a table with popular options:
| Brand | Official color name | Paint code | Model example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audi | Daytona Grau | 4L, 4L4L |
Audi A4 B9, Q5 |
| Mercedes-Benz | Selenitgrau | 717, 717U |
Mercedes E-Class W213 |
| Volkswagen | Rat Grau | LC9Z |
Golf MK7, Passat B8 |
| BMW | Platin Grau | A77, A77M |
BMW 3 Series G20 |
| Toyota | Attitude Black | 1G3 |
Toyota Camry XV70 |
Please note: the same code may indicate different shades depending on type of paint (metallic, mother of pearl, matte). For example, Volkswagen Rat Grau (LC9Z) in metallic looks lighter than in matte. To avoid mistakes, always ask the master physical sample (chip) or watch the car in daylight.
⚠️ Attention: Paint codes can vary even within the same model depending on the year of manufacture. For example, Mercedes Selenitgrau for W212 (2013) and W213 (2017) have different pigments. Always check the VIN of the car when selecting!
If you are looking for the most “rat” shade, pay attention to matte versions of taupe - they are visually closer to the “dirty” tone that is associated with urban style. However, remember that matte paint requires special care (we’ll talk about it below).
Pros and cons of “rat” color: is it worth choosing?
Like any shade, “rat” has its advantages and disadvantages. Let's break them down in detail so you can make an informed decision.
Benefits:
- 🛡️ Masks defects: small scratches, chips and dust are less noticeable on this background than on black or white.
- 💼 Versatility: suitable for business sedans (Mercedes E-Class), crossovers (Volvo XC60) and even sports cars (Audi TT).
- 🔄 Ease of tuning: goes well with chrome elements, black optics and vinyl stickers.
- 📉 Low susceptibility to burnout: Gray-brown pigments are less likely to fade in the sun than bright colors.
Disadvantages:
- 😔 Gloomy perception: in cloudy weather the car may look “dull”, especially if the shade is dark.
- 🧽 Visible dirt: Despite the camouflage of scratches, light dust (for example, from construction work) against such a background catches the eye.
- 💸 High cost of painting: complex shades (for example, with a chameleon effect) require 3-4 layers and cost 20-30% more than standard colors.
- 🔍 Difficulty of selection: during local repairs (for example, after an accident), choosing the perfect tone can be problematic.
Interesting fact: in Europe, “rat” color is often chosen for compact hatchbacks (for example, Volkswagen Polo or Ford Focus), since it visually “weights” the car, making it more solid. In the USA, it is more popular among owners of pickup trucks and SUVs - as a symbol of reliability and practicality.
If you often drive off-road or in rainy climates, the “rat” color will help keep the body looking presentable longer by masking dirt.
Which cars suit “rat” color: top 5 models
Not every car looks harmonious in gray-brown tones. For example, bright sports cars (Lamborghini Huracán) or retro cars (Fiat 500) in this color may lose their “zest”. But these models, on the contrary, win:
- Mercedes-Benz G-Class (G500/G63) — “rat” emphasizes the brutality of the SUV, especially in combination with black wheels and a chrome grille.
- Audi A6 Avant (C8) — a station wagon in dark gray looks elegant and strict, ideal for business trips.
- Volvo XC90 (2nd generation) — Scandinavian minimalism goes perfectly with muted shades.
- BMW 5 Series (G30) Touring — “rat” adds sportiness without losing premium quality.
- Land Rover Defender (L663) - a classic SUV in gray-brown color looks like a “safari veteran”.
If you own one of these models, the "rat" color could be a great choice for a repaint or vinyl wrap. For other machines, we recommend that you do this first 3D visualization (many car dealerships and tuning studios offer this service for free).
What colors do NOT go with "rat"?
Avoid bright red, neon green and acid yellow accents - they create disharmony. It is better to choose black, dark blue or bronze for details.
How to care for a “rat” car: tips from detailers
Taupe shades, especially matte or metallic ones, require special care. Here are the key recommendations:
☑️ Caring for “rat” color
)One of the main enemies of the “rat” color is micro scratches. They come from automatic car washes, careless polishing, or even branches in the parking lot. To minimize risks:
- 🧴 Wash your car manually using microfiber sponges.
- 🛡️ Apply ceramic coating (for example, Ceramic Pro or Gyeon Quartz) - it protects the paint from UV rays and chemical stains.
- 🌧️ Treat the body in rainy weather hydrophobic spray (for example, Meguiar’s Hybrid Ceramic Detailer).
For matte paint the rules are even stricter:
⚠️ Attention: Never use silicone-based waxes or polishes - they will leave greasy marks! Matte surfaces can only be treated with special compounds (for example, Dr. Beasley’s Matte Paint Coating).
If there are stains from bird droppings or tar, remove them as quickly as possible: taupe paint is especially susceptible to chemical damage. Suitable for this Turtle Wax Bug & Tar Remover or a homemade solution (1 part vinegar to 3 parts water).
Repainting “rat”: cost and nuances
If you decide to change the color of your car to “rat”, be prepared for serious expenses. The cost depends on several factors:
| Type of work | Average price (RUB) | Lead time |
|---|---|---|
| Local painting (bumper/hood) | 15 000 – 30 000 | 1–2 days |
| Complete repainting (metallic) | 80 000 – 150 000 | 5–7 days |
| Matte paint (full) | 120 000 – 200 000 | 7–10 days |
| Vinyl film (partial) | 40 000 – 70 000 | 2–3 days |
| Vinyl film (full) | 100 000 – 180 000 | 5–7 days |
Important details:
- 🔍 Color selection: Even if you know the paint code, the technician should do a test paint on a small area (for example, under the hood).
- 🛠️ Body preparation: Before painting, sanding, rust removal and priming are required. This can add 20-30% to the cost.
- 📄 Documents: in Russia, repainting in a different color requires changes to the PTS (Resolution No. 1090 of 2017). Without this, you will not pass the inspection.
Alternative to painting - vinyl film. It is cheaper (especially with partial pasting), but less durable (service life - 3-5 years). But it can be removed without harming the original paint. Popular brands: 3M, Orafol, Hexis.
Before repainting, check the body for hidden corrosion using thickness gauge (a device for measuring paintwork). This will help avoid unpleasant surprises after painting.
Tuning and accessories: what goes with the “rat” color
“Rat” color is an excellent base for tuning, as it is neutral and combines well with different materials. Here are some ideas:
Successful combinations:
- 🖤 Black elements: disks (BBS CH-R), radiator grille, mirrors. Creates contrast and emphasizes body lines.
- 🟤 Bronze/copper: wheel covers or interior parts (for example, gear knob). Adds warmth to a cool shade.
- 🔵 Dark blue: vinyl hood stripes or bumper stickers. Gives a sporty character.
- 🌿 Olive: seat covers or mats. Associated with military style.
What to avoid:
- 🔴 Bright red: looks vulgar, especially on premium cars.
- 🟡 Yellow/golden: creates disharmony with the muted tone of the body.
- ⚪ White: too much contrast, the car will be difficult to perceive as a whole.
For owners Mercedes or BMW would be an interesting solution optical tuning - replacing windows with tinted ones "smoky" or "bronze" shade. This will emphasize the “rat” color and add exclusivity to the car.
If you love LED backlight, choose warm tones (3000–4000K). Cool white (6000K+) will look alien.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the “rat” color of a car
Is it possible to order a car in “rat” color from an official dealer?
Yes, but not all brands offer such shades in the standard palette. For example, at Mercedes-Benz yes Selenitgrau, and Volkswagen — Rat Grau. However, for custom painting (for example, BMW Individual or Audi Exclusive) you will have to pay an additional 100,000–300,000 rubles.
Which “rat” shade is the most practical for daily use?
Optimal choice - dark gray metallic (for example, Audi Daytona Grau or Volvo Pine Grey). It is less stained than light colors, and not as gloomy as black. Matte shades are beautiful, but require frequent maintenance.
Is it true that rat color is harder to sell on the secondary market?
No, if we are talking about premium or popular models (Mercedes E-Class, BMW 5 Series). For budget cars (for example, Lada Vesta) a non-standard color may turn off buyers, but this is more a matter of personal preference than an objective disadvantage.
Is it possible to paint a car “rat” color yourself?
Theoretically, yes, but without experience and equipment, the result may be disappointing. The main difficulties: uniform application of metallic/pearl and tone selection. For local painting (for example, bumpers) you can use aerosol cans with a color code, but complete repainting is best left to professionals.
What care is required for matte “rat” paint?
The matte finish cannot be polished or washed with wax! Use only special means (for example, Chemical Guys Matte Detailer) and microfiber cloths. Wash the car by hand, avoiding high water pressure. Apply a ceramic-based protective coating every six months.