The 2023 color preferences for used cars in Russia show a clear leaning toward black and white, with pink far behind. This trend is highlighted by the Avito Auto study, as reported by sources like socialbites.ca. While other shades circulate in the market, the demand for pink cars remains notably low among Russian buyers.
Experts say that black and white have long held dominant positions in the second-hand car segment. The appeal lies not only in timeless aesthetics but also in practical economics. Liquidity matters in the used-car market, and neutral colors tend to depreciate at a slower rate than more striking finishes. For buyers, choosing a common color often translates into lower resale risk and easier, faster recoupment of investment. In many markets, including large, price-sensitive segments, basic colors also carry a lower initial price tag, making them more accessible for first-time buyers who want predictable budgeting without extra costs for special finishes.
In 2023, black and white together comprised roughly half of all second-hand car transactions by service users in Russia, reflecting 22% and 21% share respectively. Following these two stalwarts were gray at 14%, silver at 13%, blue at 9%, green at 6%, red at 5%, brown at 3%, and beige at 2%. This distribution underscores how widely accepted, versatile palettes influence buyer behavior—from families seeking practical, durable vehicles to buyers negotiating budget-conscious purchases in a crowded marketplace. The apparent preference for subdued tones aligns with broader consumer psychology: simpler colors tend to age better visually and require less maintenance visibility, which is a practical consideration for people reselling later on.
On the other end of the spectrum, more vibrant hues fared poorly in the same period. Pink topped the list of least desirable colors, followed by shades like purple, orange, and yellow, with gold occasionally appearing in the mix but not achieving notable market traction. This pattern mirrors expectations in many regions where bold colors are linked to stronger initial demand but poorer long-term liquidity, and where buyers in mass-market segments favor classic, low-risk choices that permit straightforward negotiation and resale planning.
For potential buyers navigating the used-car landscape, the color choice can influence both upfront price and resale trajectory. It is worth considering how color interacts with other factors such as make, model, mileage, and overall condition. Neutral colors remain a practical anchor in a market where liquidity can impact negotiation power and timing. Market data from 2023 shows a consistent preference for black, white, and grayscale shades, suggesting that buyers aiming for dependable resale value should factor color into their overall valuation strategy. Attribution: Avito Auto study, with corroborating market observations from industry analysts noted in consumer-trade summaries.