Grey has retained its top spot as the UK’s most popular new car colour for the third year running.

More than six in 10 (61.6%) of all new cars entering British roads in 2020 painted in grey, black or white

Data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) shows that while 2020 was a tough year for new car registrations overall, 397,197 grey units were sold over the course of 2020, equating to a quarter (24.3%) of all new cars sold.

Black and white took second and third place overall, with more than six in 10 (61.6%) of all new cars entering British roads in 2020 painted in these three colours.

The rest of the top 10 remained unchanged from 2019, apart from yellow and bronze which reversed places as yellow increased its market share by 50% but equivalent to only 6,816 sales.

Red saw its registrations drop below 200,000 for the first time in a decade to 147,222; its worst figure since 1997.

Interestingly, while grey was the top colour for both petrol and diesel cars, white was the most popular for pure electric vehicles whilst black was the most popular shade for plug-in hybrids.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “2020 was a pretty dark year for the automotive industry and having grey as the top new car colour probably reflects the atmosphere. The sector, however, continues to provide valuable mobility, from vans delivering essential goods to private cars helping key workers do their jobs, and click and collect offers a lifeline for the industry, helping to keep manufacturing going. It cannot, however, replace the showroom experience and the sector has taken great steps to ensure dealers are Covid-secure with the flexibility to manage customer appointments so car buyers can choose a new car and colour in a safe environment.”