What Is Nardo Grey?

Nardo Grey is a name popularly given to a distinctive medium-toned grey hue with a glossy finish and a luxurious appeal that leaves everyone in awe. The Nardo Grey color originated with Audi. It was first introduced in 2013 as one of ten color options for the RS7 lineup.

Then, over the next decade, Nardo Grey became the talk of the town, so much so that it has now become a catch-all name for all the greys with similar color characteristics.

Audi in Nardo Grey wrap being prominent in night light

So, to be clear, Nardo Grey is a color with its rights reserved only with Audi. However, being an insanely sought-after color among car enthusiasts, the market started to offer Nardo Grey-esque shades that were not originally Audi’s Nardo Grey but were strikingly similar.

Color Characteristics

Nardo Grey stands apart from other grey shades, as it has a certain refined character that draws attention and captivates onlookers. It is a medium-neutral grey that is neither too subtle to go unnoticed nor too loud-looking, but has a perfect eye-catching appeal.

To add that little something, it comes with a slight blue undertone along with a glossy top coat.

Comparison between Nardo Grey vs Daytona Grey vs Destroyer

The addition of the slight blue tone sets it apart from flat and matte greys, which are basic colors with no depth and charisma. Nardo Grey color has a bold yet minimal demeanor that adds an elegant and luxurious feel to the car.

What Is a Nardo Grey Wrap?

Nardo Grey wrap is a high-quality vinyl film that replicates the character of Audi’s Nardo Grey and is a look-alike alternative. For all the gearheads who want to jump on the Nardo Grey badwagon, but buying an Audi isn’t on their bucket list, vinyl wrapping can be their golden ticket.

Given their popularity, the Nardo Grey vinyl wraps are available in a variety of finishes for those who want to add their own pizzazz. From metallic to glossy and matte, you can choose the finish that relates to your style.

Nardo Gray wrap being applied on a whte AudiNa

Why Choose a Nardo Grey Wrap Over Paint?

You might be wondering why you should get a Nardo Grey vinyl wrap when you could simply have your car painted in a similar shade. Well, while a paint job does seem like a better option, it actually falls short of wrapping in a lot of aspects.

In the debate of paint job Vs. car wrapping, wrapping wins due to the following benefits.

Paint Protection

Paint simply adheres to the vehicle’s exterior surface, whereas a vinyl car wrap envelops the body, which creates a protective barrier between the paint and harsh environmental elements.

Nardo grey vinyl wrap protecting the underneath paint from road harshness.

With this added line of defence, your car’s factory paint stays preserved, and you still get to enjoy a fresh new color.

Lifetime

Vinyl wraps have a longer lifespan than paint, as these films don’t flake off the surface. With proper care after mastering vinyl wrapping, these films can last more than 7 years.

Comparison between car appearance ater 7 years with paint and wrap

Removable

The best part is that vinyl films are easily removable, unlike a paint job, which, once done, has absolutely no going back. Vinyl easily comes off the surface with the right tools.

Nardo Grey wrap is being removed, exposing paint underneath

Better Appearance

A vinyl wrap in Nardo Grey can replicate the true essence of the color far more precisely than a paint job ever can. It achieves the combination of blue undertone with a glossy top coat similar to the original one.

Cost Difference

cost

The overall cost of wrapping a vehicle is much lower than painting; therefore, it is more cost-effective and should be a preferred choice.

FeaturesNardo Grey WrapTraditional Paint
CostLower ($1000 to $5000)Higher ($3,000 to $10,000)
ReversibilityFully removablePermanent
DurabilityLasts longer and protects from external harshnessGets chipped off and fades under UV light
MaintenanceEasy to clean, no waxing requiredRequires frequent polishing
CustomizationMultiple finishesLimited to one tone

Nardo Grey Wrap Finishes: Matte, Satin & Gloss

Satin Nardo Grey Wrap

Although the original Nardo Grey of Audi comes in a gloss finish, the vinyl wraps come in a suite of finishes. This versatility especially appeals to customers who want to stay trendy while also feeling like adding their touch to things.

Here’s a comparison between different finishes of Nardo Grey vinyl wrap.

  • Matte Nardo Grey: A matte Nardo Grey gives the car a subdued appearance, which adds sophistication and charm to the car. These wraps don’t reflect the light and have the potential to accumulate dust.
Comparison between Nardo Grey wraps of differet finishes
  • Satin Nardo Grey: Unlike the original, this Nardo Grey has a subtle sheen and velvety feel that balances the luxury appearance. The satin vinyl wrap reflects the light and appears shiny.
  • Metallic Nardo Grey: Nardo Grey wrap with a metallic finish features a high-end, premium aesthetic loved by racing vehicle owners.

Which Cars Look Best in Nardo Grey Color?

In the automotive world, every car has itsown character defined by its body type, contours, and curves. Therefore, not every vehicle can carry the prestige and elegance of Nardo Grey as gracefully as you may expect.

But don’t worry, because we will help you decide whether the Nardo Grey should be in the cards for your car or not.

Audi RS Models

Audi RS model wrapped in Nardo Grey cruising through mountains

Because Nardo Grey is originally associated with the Audi RS7 series, it looks best with other Audi racing models as well. An RS Audi model wrapped in a glossy Nardo Grey will look like a legacy in motion.

BMW M Series

If you have a BMW from the M series, then Nardo Grey will suit its sporty look better than any other color. You can pair it with decals of racing stripes to further accentuate the sporty look of your wrapped BMW.

A BMW M series vehicle wrapped in Nardo Grey wrap

Tesla Models

The futuristic and sporty design of Tesla makes it a perfect candidate for Nardo Grey. In fact, Tesla tends to look more classy in neutral tones over sharp colors.

A Tesla wrapped in Nardo Grey wrap

Porsche

Porsche flaunts a distinctive silhouette with a forward extended bonnet. This sculpted, aerodynamic design of Porsche goes best with the elegance of Nardo Grey.

Vehicle TypeWhy It WorksSuggested Finish
Audi RS / S ModelsHeritage lookGloss or Satin
BMW M SeriesSporty contrast with black trimMatte
Toyota Supra / GR86Modern Japanese styleSatin
Tesla Model 3/YFuturistic minimalist lookMatte or Satin
Porsche 911 / CaymanElegant and boldGloss

Nardo Grey Wrap Maintenance and Longevity

A Nardo Grey Porsche being washed with mild detergent for maintenance

Now that you have gotten your favourite color on your car, you must also take care of it. The proper care will ensure your vinyl wrap lasts longer, allowing you to enjoy that flawless Nardo Grey finish for years to come.

Here are the right maintenance tips that you must follow to maintain the stealthy look.

  • Washing: When washing your vinyl-wrapped car, avoid pressure washing, as it can cause the vinyl to come off from the edges.
  • Micro-Fiber Cloth: For drying the surface, use a micro-fiber cloth to ensure no swirl marks are left on the surface, and all the moisture is fully absorbed.
A man is using a micro-fiber cloth to dry a Nardo Grey Audi.
  • Cleaning Agent: The detergent or cleaning agent that you use must be ammonia-free and mild to prevent discoloration, as harsh chemicals can damage the vinyl.
  • Bubbling: Keep an eye out for bubbling so that you can address it before it damages the finish. You can remove the occasional bubbles with a heat gun.

Common Mistakes When Choosing & Installing a Nardo Grey Wrap

To make sure you achieve the same finish of Nardo Grey vinyl as you have envisioned, you must avoid a few common mistakes. Think of this section as your one-on-one guidance to help you know what things to watch out for.

A man is applying the grey wrap.
  • For a Nardo Grey vinyl to truly feel like the original one, you must not buy low-quality, unbranded vinyl. Go for renowned brands like CarLike Film.
  • Before installation, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned and prepared for the application.
  • Choosing to go the DIY route may sound exciting, but it rarely delivers the same professional, clean results. The at-home environment is often not ideal for wrapping, which can lead to uneven application or visible imperfections.
  • Choose a certified wrap installer who is proficient in their skill and has the right expertise for your specific vehicle.

Conclusion

You may not own an Audi, but that doesn’t mean you cannot enjoy the Nardo Grey aesthetic. Vinyl wraps offer a cost-effective way to transform your car. Beyond its popularity, the grey color carries a unique charm that makes any vehicle look more refined.

So, if you want your car to make a statement, a Nardo Grey is the best choice.

CarLike Film: Your Ultimate Stop for High-end Vinyl Wraps

CarLike®, a leading exponent in the automotive films industry, has been producing high-quality vinyl wraps since 2008. With our flexible OEM and ODM, we can customize any kind of vinyl film for you apart from Nardo Grey.

Our company has the expertise to manufacture bulk orders within a short timeline so that your business never stops. So, contact us right now! Start with us with an MOQ as low as 10 rolls.

FAQs

Q1: Is Nardo Grey only available for Audi cars?

The Nardo Grey itself is only reserved for Audi cars. However, given its popularity, Nardo Grey imitators are available in the form of vinyl wraps, which almost look the same.

Q2: Will wrapping in Nardo Grey damage my paint?

No, wrapping a car in vinyl film, whether Nardo Grey or not, actually protects the paint rather than damaging it. It creates a barrier over the original paint of the vehicles, thereby protecting it from rusting and discoloration.

Q3: How long will a Nardo Grey wrap last?

The lifespan of a wrap depends on factors like quality, application, and aftercare. If we consider all of these variables constant, a Nardo Grey wrap can last between 7 to 10 years.

Q4: Can I remove or replace the wrap later?

Yes, vinyl wraps are easily removable and come off the surface just by pulling them. Unlike the common belief, removing it doesn’t damage the paint underneath.