Traveling to the UK? Hidden Eighteen Thousand GBP Car Color Costs Could Surprise Tourists – Here’s What You Need to Know

Published on July 6, 2025

While organizing an outbound journey, the last thing you’d possibly factor in is the hue of your rented car. Nevertheless, in the UK, this seemingly negligible decision might have significant monetary effects on unsuspecting drivers. Most recent alerts suggest a significant issue that concerns UK drivers to a great extent, especially when purchasing newer cars with atypical paintwork finishes. Drivers are liable to pay unexplored amounts that total a staggering £18,000 in the lifetime purchase cost of a car. This is most vital to travelers and touristsITED to rent or purchase cars when in the UK because this can have significant effects on their budgets.

Major automotive manufacturers in the UK, such as Nissan, Skoda, and Audi, are now charging higher prices for non-standard or exclusive paint finishes. While it might seem like a small add-on, the extra cost could snowball when spread over years of car financing, leading to monthly payments that could quietly eat away at your travel budget.

The Hidden Costs of Car Paint: A Growing Trend

For example, purchasing a Nissan Qashqai in any color other than red can add an additional £745 to the price tag. Meanwhile, Skoda charges £410 for vibrant finishes like red and orange on the Karoq model. If you’re leaning towards a luxury vehicle like the Audi Q3, you could be paying £575 for any standard color and as much as £4,000 for a custom finish. The trend has become noticeable across all brands, from Volkswagen to BMW, which now offers exclusive colors at premium prices.

These high paint costs are not just isolated to the purchase price. If the car is financed, the extra fees are rolled into monthly payments, turning what was supposed to be an exciting and relatively inexpensive decision into a long-term financial burden. For UK residents, these fees may just be part of the norm, but for travelers and tourists, they could come as a surprise—especially when considering the growing trend of rental car options that reflect these hidden costs.

The Financial Impact: More Than Just the Purchase Price

As Paul Barker, editor of Auto Express, highlights, this hidden charge for car color choices is becoming more common and can be easily overlooked when buying a new car. “It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of choosing the perfect color for your new car, but it’s vital to remember that certain color options can be financially overwhelming,” he warns. Barker suggests that potential car buyers must be vigilant, especially when financing a vehicle. “Colour should be about personal taste, not personal financial pain,” he says, advising motorists to fully understand the costs involved before committing.

When it comes to travel, this could mean a heavier financial load for tourists who opt to rent cars in the UK. Rental agencies that offer cars with non-standard paint options might not always disclose these extra charges upfront, potentially leading to surprises at the counter when it’s time to pay. For travelers on tight budgets, understanding this dynamic can be crucial in avoiding unexpected fees.

What Travelers and Tourists Need to Know

If you’re planning to travel to the UK and rent or buy a car, here are a few tips to ensure you aren’t caught off guard by these hidden fees:

1. Understand the Rental Terms: Before picking your rental car, make sure to read the terms and conditions. Ask about any potential fees associated with non-standard paint finishes. While many tourists may not prioritize the car’s color, it could lead to additional costs when it’s time to check out.
2. Compare Prices Between Providers: Different rental companies may offer varying prices for cars with exclusive colors. Don’t assume that the best deal is always the one with the most luxurious paint job. A basic color might save you hundreds in hidden costs.
3. Financing Options: If you’re buying a car in the UK, be sure to ask how much extra financing will cost if you choose a car with a non-standard paint finish. While it may seem like a minor detail, those extra costs could pile up over the course of a long-term loan.
4. Consider Standard Colors: To avoid extra charges, opt for the standard color options offered by car manufacturers and rental agencies. Often, these colors will be included in the price of your rental or purchase.
5. Know What’s Included in the Price: Whether buying or renting, always ask about what’s included in the quoted price. Some companies may offer an attractive rate that’s only valid if you select a standard paint option.

The Bottom Line: Stay Informed, Stay Prepared

For travelers and tourists planning to rent or buy cars in the UK, understanding the financial implications of non-standard car colors is crucial. While it might seem like a small thing, paint finishes can drastically increase your costs in ways that are hard to spot at first glance. By staying informed and asking the right questions, you can ensure that the color you choose for your car doesn’t turn into an unwanted financial burden.

With auto manufacturers releasing more and more hidden charges, checking the fine print has never been more critical to travelers. What may seem in the short-term to be a cosmetic choice has the long-term fiscal implications and thus is significant to recognize every expense related to your car purchase or rental.

Finally, if you are buying a new car or renting one to use to take a short trip, make sure that the color you settle on does not add more than you had budgeted to pay. Be aware of those hidden costs, and travel wisely with your vehicular decisions.

Source: BirminghamLive