It's a definitely style statement. I've seen pics of a Rolls Royce concept in flat/semigloss paint. I thought it looked awesome.
I think it's a reaction to overall finishes we see in furniture and hardware. You don't see too many high gloss finishes on furniture, especially if its custom made or very expensive. The "piano lacquer" look is pretty much out. Same with hardware. Nothing says "cheap builders grade junk" than polished brass hardware and lighting. Almost everything you see at Home Depot is brushed nickel or satin chrome.
Just sitting here looking at the things in my office, almost nothing is high gloss. The base of my monitor, the computer speakers, the lid on my printer, my desk lamp, everything has a low gloss metallic look to it. The only shiny things I can see are the $5 trophies I won years ago playing softball. They're shiny plastic gold.
It probably will never take hold but it is an interesting design statement and I think its cool a few automakers are playing with different paint finishes.
Anyway, my 2 cents. :2cents:
