Choosing Stealth PPF for My 2025 M3: Xpel vs. SunTek and Gloss vs. Frozen Look

[rustinpeter]

I’m picking up my 2025 M3 in a few days and got a quote from a reputable vinyl shop for PPF. Here’s the breakdown:
• Full gloss PPF: $6,000
• Stealth PPF: $6,500
• Both Xpel and SunTek materials are priced the same.

My car is in Skyscraper Grey gloss (not frozen), and I’m considering the stealth PPF since the price difference is minimal.

Need your advice before making a final decision on my pick..

1. Does the stealth PPF give a look similar to a frozen/matte paint color?

2. Which brand is better, Xpel or SunTek?

3. Any suggestions or considerations if I decide to go with the stealth PPF?

Thanks!

[jkoral]

Originally Posted by rustinpeter

1. Does the stealth PPF give a look similar to a frozen/matte paint color?

According to this thread it's a perfect match:
https://g87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh...php?p=31134809

See post #38 for results, shiny patch on hood, he covered hood only with stealth PPF and it looks just like the rest of his Frozen Grey paint.

[rustinpeter]

Originally Posted by jkoral

According to this thread it's a perfect match:
https://g87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh...php?p=31134809

See post #38 for results, shiny patch on hood, he covered hood only with stealth PPF and it looks just like the rest of his Frozen Grey paint.

Awesome, I'll go with stealth PPF then.

[chefwong]

Originally Posted by rustinpeter

2. Which brand is better, Xpel or SunTek?

I'd choose the shop who you think will give you the best install possible.....it's not the film, you're paying for skilled craftsmanship.

I know you're going matte, but Suntek in gloss is a smidge optically clearer than Xpel.

[CJ421]

SunTek stealth PPF will look exactly like frozen paint. I have frozen paint on my car and got SunTek Matte Ultra ...there is visually no difference.

Basically it comes down to if you want a matte or glossy look.

Charles

[Seedster2]

I'd go suntek over Xpel everytime. That said, the installer makes the most the difference in the outcome.

[chefwong]

In gloss, suntek is noticably clearer....is is slightly thinner than Xpel, so less Orangepeel

[rustinpeter]

Originally Posted by chefwong

I'd choose the shop who you think will give you the best install possible.....it's not the film, you're paying for skilled craftsmanship.

I know you're going matte, but Suntek in gloss is a smidge optically clearer than Xpel.

I live in NY, and the shop I’m considering is called eXclusive Vinyl. They offer both options, but their Instagram mainly showcases Xpel PPF.

“Suntek in gloss is slightly more optically clear than Xpel.”

Does this mean Suntek is the better choice?

[rustinpeter]

Originally Posted by CJ421

SunTek stealth PPF will look exactly like frozen paint. I have frozen paint on my car and got SunTek Matte Ultra ...there is visually no difference.

Basically it comes down to if you want a matte or glossy look.

Charles

Hi, just to clarify.. My car paint is gloss. so, if i go with SunTek, it will enhance the protection while maintaining the same visual look with no noticeable difference between the film and the original paint finish?

[rustinpeter]

Originally Posted by Seedster2

I'd go suntek over Xpel everytime. That said, the installer makes the most the difference in the outcome.

I'm thinking of going with suntek, the shop does both but their website, instagram is more showcasing xpel

[chefwong]

You can't go wrong with way. IMO, Suntek is optically a bit better in gloss. It might be the *same* look on matte since you mentioned that in your 1st post.

You're fine either way as XV is a good shop.....

It's not about the film.....it's about the installer.

[CJ421]

Originally Posted by rustinpeter

Hi, just to clarify.. My car paint is gloss. so, if i go with SunTek, it will enhance the protection while maintaining the same visual look with no noticeable difference between the film and the original paint finish?

I can only speak for the matte PPF, but the other replies here indicate the glossy PPF would look perfect as well.

Agreed with the others that the result all comes down to the installer. Choose wisely.

Charles