The automotive aftermarket continues to expand, and 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most influential years for the restyling industry. With U.S. aftermarket spending projected to approach $450 billion by 2026, according to combined research from the Auto Care Association and MEMA’s Joint Forecast Model, consumer demand for personalization, protection, and performance is accelerating faster than many shops are prepared for.
For shops specializing in wraps, PPF, tint, lighting, off-road builds, EV customization, and ADAS-safe upgrades, the coming year presents significant opportunities and competitive challenges. As a trusted leader in vehicle customization, AutoStyle Marketing explains the most important trends shaping 2026 and how forward-thinking shops and vehicle owners can prepare.
Rising Demand for Vehicle Personalization
Personalization continues to drive a large share of aftermarket growth. SEMA’s latest Market Report shows consumers spent more than $52.6 billion modifying their vehicles in 2024, with growth expected to rise back to 3 to 4 percent annually by 2026. This places the specialty-equipment segment in the mid-$50 billion range as customization becomes increasingly popular among vehicle owners.
Drivers are personalizing their vehicles because of:
- Social media content that highlights wrap transformations and before-and-after builds
- Younger buyers who want a car that fits their identity
- High new-vehicle prices make upgrades more appealing than buying a new model
This trend fuels demand for wraps, ceramic coatings, tint, off-road accessories, lighting, and interior upgrades. AutoStyle Marketing continues to see strong interest across these categories.
CUV and Light-Truck Dominance Continues to Shape the Market
CUVs and light trucks now make up more than 70 percent of U.S. new vehicle sales, according to data from NHTSA. This shift has changed what consumers want from aftermarket upgrades.
The most in-demand upgrades for CUVs and trucks include:
- Bed covers and cargo systems
- Suspension upgrades
- Roof racks and adventure accessories
- PPF and ceramic coating
- High-output lighting systems
CUV and truck buyers typically spend more on accessories than sedan owners. AutoStyle Marketing supports this growth with curated accessory packages built for the most popular vehicle models.
ADAS and Technology Compatibility Becomes Mandator
Modern vehicles depend on advanced safety systems, and improper customization can interfere with sensors and cameras. Wrap placement, bumper modifications, or grill changes can disrupt collision-avoidance systems, as explained by NHTSA.
Heading into 2026, restylers must focus on:
- Sensor-safe vinyl installation
- ADAS-compatible grille and bumper modifications
- Proper calibration after upgrades
- Following OEM warranty guidance
AutoStyle Marketing emphasizes ADAS-safe processes and modern installation standards to ensure all upgrades remain compliant and functional.
Surging Demand for High-Durability Protection Products
With new-vehicle prices at record highs and owners keeping cars longer, protection-based upgrades continue to grow. Data from SEMA shows strong interest in:
- Paint Protection Film (PPF)
- Ceramic coatings
- Scratch-resistant vinyl wraps
- Underbody corrosion protection
These upgrades help vehicle owners preserve long-term value and lower repair costs. AutoStyle Marketing encourages bundled PPF, ceramic, and tint packages to meet consumer expectations for durability.
Off-Road, Overlanding, and Adventure Builds Accelerate
Adventure travel is growing, supported by national lifestyle trends and mobility data from AAA. This has created rising demand for:
- Lift kits and leveling kits
- Off-road wheels and tires
- Roof-top tents and overlanding products
- Auxiliary and trail lighting
- Vehicle armor and skid plates
These builds require technical precision and an understanding of safety standards. AutoStyle Marketing develops strategies that help shops deliver reliable overlanding installations backed by proper engineering and load ratings.
EV Customization Becomes a Major Restyling Segment
EV adoption continues to climb, and EV owners are among the most customization-focused buyers. According to insights from Car and Driver, EV owners are investing in:
- Full body wraps
- Aero styling enhancements
- EV-safe wheel upgrades
- Lighting modifications
- PPF and ceramic coatings
EVs require specialized installation methods to protect battery systems, sensors, and wiring. AutoStyle Marketing uses EV-safe materials and installation frameworks to help restylers avoid issues that reduce performance or range.
Modernizing the Shop Experience: Digital, Fast, and Transparent
Customer expectations continue to shift toward a more modern experience. According to KPMG’s Automotive Aftermarket Update, service-based businesses with digital workflows outperform those that rely on manual processes.
Consumers now expect:
- Online scheduling
- Digital quotes
- Faster turnaround
- Progress updates via photo or video
- Financing options for large upgrades
AutoStyle Marketing helps restyling shops implement these improvements to increase conversions and strengthen customer satisfaction.
Dealership and Fleet Partnerships Grow in Importance
Dealerships and fleet companies are investing more in vehicle upfitting. SEMA reports that more than 40 percent of new-vehicle buyers purchase accessories within the first 90 days of ownership.
Popular upgrades for these segments include:
- Bed liners
- Tint and PPF
- Appearance packages
- Leather interior conversions
- Safety lighting for commercial fleets
AutoStyle Marketing collaborates with restylers to develop programs that attract dealership and fleet partnerships, ultimately increasing accessory revenue.
Prepare for a Transformative 2026 in Automotive Restyling
The restyling industry is entering a high-growth period driven by personalization, protection, off-road activity, EV adoption, and advanced technology systems. With the U.S. aftermarket projected to reach $450 billion by 2026 and the specialty-equipment sector advancing into the mid-$50 billion range, the opportunity for restylers is significant.
AutoStyle Marketing remains committed to providing modern strategies, accurate industry insights, and customer-centered guidance for shops that want to lead in 2026.
Plan your 2026 restyling growth strategy with AutoStyle Marketing today.
