What color is caviar in cars?
The short answer: in the automotive world, “caviar” generally describes a very dark shade, typically near black, used for exterior paints or interior materials. The exact hue can vary by brand and finish, so checking the manufacturer's color catalog is essential for a specific model.
Beyond that basic idea, the term conveys a sense of depth and richness rather than a pure flat black. Depending on the finish—gloss, satin, matte, or with metallic/pearlescent particles—the color can read as black, charcoal, or a very deep gray. Brands may use the name differently, so it’s useful to see real samples in different lighting.
What the term typically describes
In most car color catalogs, “caviar” evokes a near-black tone with a sense of depth. The shade often includes subtle undertones that can lean warm or cool, and finishes may range from high-gloss to velvety matte. The exact appearance depends on the pigment, clearcoat, and lighting conditions.
Where you’ll see "Caviar" in car color schemes
To understand how the name is used in practice, note that it appears in two broad areas: exterior paint and interior materials. The following sections outline common interpretations in each area.
Exterior finishes describe the color as seen on the body panels, while interior finishes refer to upholstery, trim, and surfaces inside the cabin.
- Exterior paint: a very dark black or charcoal tone, sometimes with metallic or pearlescent particles to add depth. Finishes can be glossy, satin, or matte, depending on the model and package.
- Exterior trim and accents: some models use “Caviar” as a unifying dark shade for grilles, mirrors, badging, and other trim pieces to create a cohesive look with the body color.
Concluding note: the exact hue labeled “Caviar” can vary by brand and year, so reviewing the official color swatches for a specific car is important when color accuracy matters.
Interior finishes
- Leather and upholstery: “Caviar” inside typically means a very dark black or charcoal color for seats, dashboards, and panels, often with contrasting stitching or piping for definition.
- Carpet, headliner, and trim: the term can extend to deep-dyed fabrics or suede-like materials that read almost black under certain lights, contributing to a unified cabin tone.
Concluding note: interior implementations of “Caviar” are again brand-specific. The same name can yield subtly different shades of black or dark gray across models.
How to verify the color on a specific car
Because color naming varies by manufacturer, the surest way to confirm is to consult the official color catalog for the exact model year, view digital swatches, and request a physical sample if possible. Look at the color under different lighting—sunlight, shade, and artificial light—to gauge depth, undertones, and any metallic or pearlescent effects. If you’re shopping used, ask for a factory paint code and compare it to the brochure’s description.
Summary
Caviar in cars is generally a very dark, near-black shade used for both exterior finishes and interiors. Exact appearances vary by brand and finish, so always check official swatches and lighting conditions when evaluating a car labeled “Caviar.”
