Oldham's most popular car colour remains grey in 2025
Oldham drivers have once again shown their love for grey cars, with the neutral shade accounting for 32% of all new vehicle sales across Greater Manchester in 2025. The figures from Swansway Motor Group reveal that Oldham actually has the highest concentration of grey car owners in the region, with the colour making up 31.8% of the dealership's retail sales last year.
John Smyth, director at Swansway Motor Group, said the enduring popularity of grey reflects drivers' preference for a 'safe and stylish choice' that's been the company's best-seller for seven years running. But there's a twist in the tale-while grey continues its dominance, green cars are making a surprising comeback with sales jumping 94% in 2025, more than double the national growth rate.
The data shows a clear shift in colour preferences over the past decade. Red vehicles have fallen out of favour with a 12% decline in sales, while silver has taken a significant hit with a 36% drop over ten years. Meanwhile, grey has seen a remarkable 168% increase in sales during the same period, cementing its position as the go-to choice for Greater Manchester motorists.
What's particularly interesting is that this trend is playing out right here in Oldham, where residents are leading the way in embracing grey vehicles. Whether it's the practical appeal of a colour that hides dirt well or simply following a broader fashion trend, Oldham drivers are clearly setting the tone for car colour choices across the region.
At a Glance
| What | Grey cars accounted for 32% of retail sales across Greater Manchester in 2025 |
|---|---|
| Who | Swansway Motor Group, John Smyth (director) |
| Where | Greater Manchester, with Oldham having highest density of grey vehicles |
| When | 2025 sales figures, with grey being best-seller for seven consecutive years |
| Why it matters | Shows local driving preferences and emerging trends in vehicle colour choices |
| What's next | Green car sales continue to rise while traditional colours like red and silver decline |
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