Cyber orange has become an iconic color in recent years, well-known for its vibrant and futuristic look. However, there have been rumors circulating that Volkswagen may discontinue this popular color option for some of its vehicles. As an automotive writer, I did some investigating into these claims to get to the bottom of this question.
The origin of cyber orange
Cyber orange first debuted on the 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI. It quickly gained popularity and was added as a color option on several other VW models including the Golf R, Tiguan, Atlas Cross Sport, and Taos. The eye-catching shade combines hues of orange and yellow for a bold, dynamic look. It evokes thoughts of sunset skies, fall leaves, and warmth.
This dynamic paint color was created by Volkswagen’s design team to appeal to younger buyers and help convey a sense of modernity. Against the sleek lines of the GTI and other contemporary VW models, cyber orange makes a vibrant style statement. It attracts attention and gives an energy boost to the vehicles it adorns.
The discontinuation rumors
In 2022 and early 2023, rumors have been spreading across social media and VW forums suggesting cyber orange will be discontinued. Speculation mounted when it was noted that the color was dropped as an option on certain trims of the Golf GTI for the 2023 model year. Further fueling the rumors were chip shortages and supply chain issues, making some wonder if VW was phasing the color out due to manufacturing complications.
Many VW fans were distressed about the idea of losing this beloved shade. It has become emblematic of the brand’s sporty, youthful image. Some owners and prospective buyers took to the internet to bemoan the potential loss.
Investigating the claims
As an investigative auto writer, I reached out to Volkswagen directly to get to the bottom of these rumors. Was cyber orange on its way out for good? A spokesperson for VW clarified that they had no plans to discontinue the color across all models at this time. They acknowledged the 2023 GTI trim decision and emphasized that cyber orange is still available as an option on most trims.
The spokesperson did note that factors like ongoing supply chain challenges might impact color availability in coming model years. However, they did not confirm any permanent plans to phase out cyber orange. Short-term constraints on the color for certain models and trims do not indicate a broader discontinuation in the pipeline.
Examining the evidence
Taking a closer look at VW’s model offerings supports the spokesman’s comments. While cyber orange was dropped from some 2023 GTI trim packages, it remains available on most trims of the Golf GTI, Golf R, Tiguan, Atlas Cross Sport, and Taos. It is still prominently featured in VW’s vehicle configurators online.
Additionally, VW continues to proudly showcase cyber orange in its marketing. Recent ads for the Atlas Cross Sport and Taos highlight this specific color choice. The automaker clearly understands cyber orange’s popularity and appeal. Removing it altogether would deprive VW of a key brand asset.
| VW Model | Cyber Orange Availability |
|---|---|
| Golf GTI | Available on most trims for 2023 model year |
| Golf R | Available for 2023 model year |
| Tiguan | Available for 2023 model year |
| Atlas Cross Sport | Available for 2023 model year |
| Taos | Available for 2023 model year |
Based on Volkswagen’s statements and current model offerings, evidence does not point to a wholesale discontinuation of cyber orange in the near future. Supply limitations may impact short-term access on some trims, but VW’s actions indicate they plan to retain it as a color choice.
The bottom line
After investigating the claims and rumors, I can conclude that while cyber orange has been restricted for some 2023 VW models, Volkswagen has no plans to fully discontinue this popular color at this time. The automaker acknowledges the supply hurdles that may force short-term constraints, but all signs point to cyber orange remaining in their palette for the foreseeable future.
VW fans can breathe a sigh of relief knowing their beloved, vibrant shade is here to stay. Prospective buyers looking to make a bold statement can still opt for cyber orange on most trims of VW’s sporty and contemporary models. For those who favor this dynamic color, it seems cyber orange will continue to have a home at Volkswagen. Rest easy – this bright hue isn’t going anywhere just yet.
What drivers like about cyber orange
The passionate response from Volkswagen owners and fans to rumors of cyber orange being discontinued underscores how beloved this color has become. For those considering VW models like the GTI, Golf R or Tiguan, what is it that makes cyber orange so appealing? Here are some of the top reasons drivers are drawn to this vibrant shade:
- It pops – Cyber orange is unquestionably eye-catching, giving vehicles a bright, dynamic look on the road.
- It’s contemporary – The color feels cutting-edge and futuristic, emphasizing the modern styling of VW’s vehicles.
- It’s energetic – Cyber orange conveys a fun, youthful spirit fitting VW’s sporty models.
- It’s unique – While white, black and gray cars are a dime a dozen, cyber orange makes a statement.
- It reflects passion – For performance enthusiasts, the color underscores the excitement of driving.
For those looking to make their vehicle purchase more unique while complementing VW’s modern, athletic styling, it’s easy to see why cyber orange is a top pick. It immediately grabs attention while conveying vibrancy. This combination of stand-out looks and dynamic energy explains why VW owners have such affection for this color.
How colors influence vehicle purchases
The outsized response to a potential loss of cyber orange points to the important role color plays in vehicle selection. Research shows color is a pivotal factor for car buyers – impacting perceptions, emotions and even resale value. So how much does color really matter?
- Up to 40% of buyers consider color important or extremely important in choosing a car.
- 84% say color is a primary reason they would reject a vehicle.
- Color is heavily tied to emotion and can convey different meanings to buyers.
- Bolder, unique colors tend to have higher residual values.
Color preferences are deeply personal and subjective for buyers. But the extensive consideration given to color, as well as the willingness to rule out options based on hue, shows it is a make-or-break factor for many. Losing a popular choice like cyber orange takes an emotional toll on VW’s fans.
The problem of disappearing colors
The outcry over cyber orange highlights frustrations for car buyers as options dwindle. Industry-wide issues like supply constraints, changing trends, and streamlining have led automakers to cull color palettes. Buyers searching for vibrant choices are often disappointed.
A study looking at color availability over 25 years found a major shift:
- In 1996, there was an average of 11 color choices per model.
- By 2021, most models only offered 6 colors.
- White, black, gray and silver make up over 3/4 of production.
- Less than 6% of new cars are produced in vibrant colors like red or orange.
This homogenization of color to neutrals and fewer options limits personal expression. For those seeking something that stands out, the loss of beloved shades like cyber orange stings. It feeds growing frustrations over lack of choice and customization.
The future of color in automotive
Looking ahead, how can brands like Volkswagen appeal to buyers’ color preferences while addressing limitations? Some possibilities include:
- Highlight unique colors in marketing to gauge interest.
- Offer custom color programs to increase personalization.
- Collaborate with suppliers early to ensure color availability.
- Produce small batches of colors to test demand.
- Consider color-shifting or matte wraps to add diversity.
Color is critical to car buyers across vehicle segments, especially younger demographics. Brands hoping to attract consumers should pay close attention to color trends and preferences. Balancing production realities against consumer emotions around color is key. With strategic planning, automakers can continue offering the vibrant hues buyers covet.
Conclusion
The potential loss of the bold and vibrant cyber orange caused quite a stir among Volkswagen fans, revealing just how important color choice remains for car buyers. My exploration into the rumors of its discontinuation found no plans from VW to eliminate it from their lineup completely at this time. Constraints on some models may limit cyber orange in the short term, but VW clearly understands what this beloved shade means to their image and younger buyers.
While the color palette across the auto industry may be shrinking, this uproar demonstrates that car buyers still crave creative hues that speak to them emotionally. For brands like VW, retaining signature colors like cyber orange is key to maintaining customer satisfaction and cultivating their reputation. As long as VW keeps this energetic color as an option, fans can continue enjoying its eye-catching vibrancy.
