The Great Debate Over Lexus's Bold Red Paint
A car’s color is often a deeply personal choice, but rarely does a specific shade stir up as much conversation as the vibrant reds offered by Lexus. If you’ve seen a new Lexus in a stunning, deep crimson, you’ve likely witnessed a color that drivers and critics can’t stop talking about, creating a genuine debate among car enthusiasts.
What Is This Controversial Color?
While the ad refers to a “Crimson Pearl,” Lexus is famous for a few specific, high-tech red paints that fit this description, most notably Infrared and Redline. These are not your average car colors. They are premium, multi-stage finishes that involve a complex application process to achieve their signature depth and glow.
Unlike a standard paint job which might have a base coat and a clear coat, these special Lexus reds have more layers. For example, the process often includes:
- A silver or metallic base layer to reflect light.
- A translucent red coat that allows the base to shine through.
- A final protective clear coat.
This intricate process is what gives the paint its “flop,” meaning it can look like a bright, fiery red in direct sunlight and shift to a deeper, richer crimson or burgundy in the shade. It’s this dynamic quality that makes the color so eye-catching and is the primary reason it has become such a hot topic.
The Heart of the Debate: Why Is It So Divisive?
A color this bold is bound to have strong opinions on both sides. The debate isn’t about whether the color is well-made; it’s about whether it’s the right choice for a luxury vehicle and for the average driver. Here’s a breakdown of the two main camps.
The “Love It” Camp: A Statement of Style
Supporters of Lexus’s vibrant reds argue that the color perfectly complements the brand’s modern, aggressive styling. They believe it elevates the car from a simple mode of transportation to a piece of automotive art.
- It Highlights the Design: Many fans point out that the deep, reflective nature of the paint accentuates the sharp lines, curves, and creases of modern Lexus models like the IS sedan and LC coupe. A flatter color, they argue, can hide these details.
- Premium and Exclusive Feel: The extra cost and complex nature of the paint give it an air of exclusivity. Owners feel they have something special that stands out from the endless sea of black, white, and silver cars on the road.
- Confidence and Excitement: For many drivers, a bold color is an expression of personality. Choosing a color like Infrared is a confident choice that brings a little more excitement to the daily drive. It’s for people who don’t want to blend in.
The “Not For Me” Camp: Too Much of a Good Thing?
On the other side of the debate are those who find the color a bit too much for a luxury brand known for its subtlety and refinement. Their concerns are often practical as well as aesthetic.
- Attracts Unwanted Attention: Some drivers prefer a more understated look. A flashy red car can attract attention not just from admirers, but also potentially from law enforcement or vandals. They prefer to fly under the radar.
- Concerns About Maintenance and Repair: A complex, multi-stage paint job can be a source of anxiety. Getting a perfect paint match for a scratch or fender bender can be more difficult and costly than with a standard color.
- Resale Value Questions: Traditionally, neutral colors like black, white, and silver have the broadest appeal on the used car market. Some buyers worry that a niche, bold color like a bright red might narrow the pool of potential buyers when it comes time to sell, potentially impacting its resale value.
How Real Drivers and Critics Are Responding
The ad promised to show how drivers are responding, and the online world provides a clear picture of the ongoing discussion.
On automotive forums like ClubLexus and Reddit’s r/Lexus, threads discussing the red paint options are common. You’ll find countless owners posting photos of their cars in Infrared, celebrating the color’s unique properties in different lighting conditions. Many posts are from prospective buyers asking current owners if the color is “worth it” and if it’s difficult to maintain. The consensus among owners is typically a resounding “yes,” with many stating they get compliments on the color constantly.
However, you’ll also see comments from people who admire the color but wouldn’t choose it for themselves. One commenter might say, “It’s a stunning color, but I couldn’t live with it every day.” Another might add, “I’d be too worried about it getting scratched.”
Automotive journalists often praise the color. In reviews for models like the Lexus IS 500 or the LC 500, critics frequently call out Infrared as a standout option that makes the car look exotic and expensive. They often note that it’s a color that photographs well and helps the car’s design “pop” on screen and in print.
The Verdict: A Matter of Personal Taste
Ultimately, the debate over Lexus’s “Crimson Pearl” reds comes down to individual preference. There is no right or wrong answer. It’s a classic battle between emotional appeal and practical considerations.
If you are someone who loves bold design, wants your vehicle to be a statement piece, and enjoys the attention that comes with a unique car, then a color like Infrared could be the perfect choice. If you prioritize subtlety, are concerned about long-term maintenance costs, or plan to sell the car in a few years, a more traditional color might be a safer bet. The debate continues because both sides make excellent points.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much extra does a color like Lexus Infrared cost? Premium paints like Infrared are typically an extra-cost option. The price can vary by model and year, but it’s common for it to be an additional charge of around $500 to $600 on a new vehicle.
Does a bold color really hurt resale value? While neutral colors have the widest appeal, a popular and well-maintained bold color like Lexus’s red can sometimes be a selling point for the right buyer. An enthusiast looking for that specific color might even be willing to pay a premium for it. However, it may take longer to sell compared to a black or white equivalent.
Is it harder to take care of than other colors? The paint itself is as durable as any other modern automotive finish. The main challenge is that scratches or chips on a vibrant, multi-layered color can be more noticeable to the eye. Careful washing and waxing are recommended to maintain its deep gloss, just as with any dark-colored vehicle.