Express Yourself: Introducing COLOR Paint Protection Film
Published On August 1, 2025
Car customization has been a cornerstone of automotive culture for decades. From custom rims and sound systems to unique paint jobs, drivers have always sought to express their individuality through their vehicles. However, traditional methods for color customization have significant drawbacks.
"Traditionally, if someone wanted to change the color of their car, they had two routes. It was either a vinyl wrap or it was a trip to the body shop," explains James Melfi, XPEL PPF Product Manager. "The body shop is going to be an incredibly high-ticket item. And the other option-vinyl-has its limitations. Vinyl is relatively thin, so it is not a protective product. It can still get chipped. It can still get scratched."
This leaves owners with an impossible choice: spend a fortune on a professional paint job or opt for a more affordable vinyl wrap that offers minimal protection and durability. But what if you could have the best of both worlds? XPEL seeks to end this compromise with COLOR Paint Protection Film (PPF), providing both stunning looks and superior protection.
What Is Paint Protection Film?
PPF has been protecting vehicles for years, serving as an invisible shield against road debris, rock chips, scratches, and environmental damage. Traditional PPF is a clear, urethane film that is applied to exterior painted surfaces, offering protection while preserving the vehicle's original appearance.
"Paint protection film does a few things. It protects your vehicle against rock chips, scratches, etchings from bugs and bird droppings," Melfi explains. "The biggest thing I say is it allows you to drive your car without fear. You're protecting it, you're preserving it. You're not worried about all the elements that are flying around on the road. You're upholding the resale value, and you're preserving the car for the long term."
The COLOR PPF Revolution
COLOR PPF represents the next revolution in technology. XPEL's innovative approach combines the durability and protection of traditional PPF with the visual transformation capabilities previously only available through vinyl wraps or repainting.
"It is paint protection film that has a colored layer. You're having the color that you want, but you're also having the protection attributes and the durability of paint protection film,” states Melfi.
Unlike vinyl wraps, which typically last only a few years before degrading, COLOR PPF is engineered for the long haul.
"COLOR PPF is going to be durable for 10 plus years, if not more," notes Melfi.
This exceptional durability makes it an intelligent investment for those looking to transform their vehicle’s appearance today and have it protected for the long haul.
Like Factory Fresh Paint
The most remarkable aspect of COLOR PPF is that, once applied, it delivers a factory fresh appearance. While vinyl wraps often have visible texture or an artificial look, COLOR PPF provides a finish that's virtually indistinguishable from the original paint.
The biggest value for COLOR PPF is that it looks like paint," Melfi emphasizes. "You don't know that it's a film. If you're tucking it and wrapping it in, it's seamlessly done. No one would have any idea that it's not paint, and that's amazing."
At launch, XPEL's COLOR PPF will be available in 16 unique colors, many inspired by some of the most iconic automotive colors in history. From a Porsche-inspired Moss Green to vibrant Molten Orange, the palette offers something for every taste.
Enjoy the Drive!
Beyond aesthetics, the protective qualities of COLOR PPF allow enthusiasts and everyday drivers to get the most out of their driving experience. And do so in style.
For those with older vehicles who are looking to “freshen up” their look, COLOR PPF will help mask those minor imperfections that come with having a few miles under your belt.
With the added color in the TPU layer, most or all of your minor damage can be simply covered up. You can’t achieve this with a gloss or satin film," explains Melfi.
Application Options
The versatility of COLOR PPF extends to its application options. Drivers can choose anything from accent pieces to full-vehicle transformations.
Installations are performed by authorized XPEL dealers using the company's proprietary DAP system, which ensures precise fitment for thousands of vehicle models. The installation process is similar to traditional PPF and can be completed in a few hours or a few days, depending on the complexity of the job.
Changing the Ownership Experience
Whether you're a car enthusiast looking to create a unique, head-turning appearance for your prized possession or an everyday owner seeking to refresh an aging vehicle, COLOR PPF should be in your consideration set.
"You could easily have the same car in completely different colors throughout your entire ownership experience," Melfi points out. "At the end, when you trade it in, the film did its job. It protected the vehicle. Pull the film, and the vehicle is virtually brand-new underneath."
To learn more or find a dealer near you, visit xpel.com.