CXP vs CIR vs Evolve: which SunTek tint should you get?

At a glance

Hatch prices. Sedans, SUVs and 4x4s cost more. 10% off with any coating package.

CXP: the value pick

A carbon film with a deep, neutral black that won’t fade purple like old dyed films. It blocks 99% of UV and takes the edge off glare and heat. If your main goals are privacy, a cleaner look and protecting your interior from fading, CXP does the job at the lowest price.

CIR: the one most people choose

A ceramic film. The ceramic particles absorb infrared, the part of sunlight you feel as heat, so CIR stops noticeably more heat than CXP at the same shade. In a Perth summer the difference is obvious on the back of your neck at the lights. It costs about $90 more than CXP on a hatch, and it’s what we’d put on our own cars.

Evolve: maximum heat rejection

SunTek’s top nano-ceramic film. The highest infrared rejection in the range, which means you can run the same legal shade and get a markedly cooler cabin, or run a lighter shade and still beat CIR. The pick for EVs with large glass areas (less heat means less air-con, which means more range), for cars that sit in the sun all day at work, and for anyone who wants performance without a dark look.

Our advice

• Budget or an older car: CXP.
• Most cars, most people: CIR.
• EV, big glass, or parked in the sun all day: Evolve.

Whichever you choose, it’s computer-cut to your windows and fitted at the darkest legal WA shade. Tint prices and how it’s fitted.

Questions

Does a darker tint block more heat?

Not much. Shade mostly affects visible light and privacy. Heat is mainly infrared, and that’s what ceramic films block. A light Evolve can beat a dark CXP for cabin heat.

Will any of these affect my phone or GPS?

No. All three are metal-free, so there’s no signal interference.

Can I do the front two windows only?

Yes. Many cars come with factory privacy glass on the rear, so we often fit the front two to match. From $240.