I was quite surprised when my salesman suggested Sumatra.
Surprised - and intrigued - but certainly not encouraged by the colour swatch on either the sample he showed me, or what I could see on the brochure. The 'spray-on' colour on the VW website was even less appealing.
However, after considerable research (assembling into a Powerpoint file just about every photo of a Sumatra I could find on this Forum and beyond), I went with the dealer's recommendation.
I am well pleased with that choice to say the least (as the number of photos I have taken since, only some of which I have shared on the Forum, testify). Sorry for boring those who aren't into Sumatra; I hope the following pictures help those who are awaiting delivery of one / actively trying to decide on whether to rule it in or out as an option.
Can I now accurately describe the colour?
Short answer, ... No! It's one of the most light-sensitive colours I have seen.
Yesterday I gave the Roc it's first proper wash and wax, then took it for an extended run. My camera accompanied the journey. I was quite astounded to find the variety of 'shades / colours' that turned up at various times of day in different degrees of light.
For the record - 'A Day In The Life Of A Sumatra':
Drying off after the two bucket wash (probably 2.00pm


At the same stage, but showing the effects of the sun on the bonnet:

Sitting in the driveway in some shade after the wax session (4.30pm):



In strong sunlight:

The first part of my journey (after 6.00pm) - to visit the car park of a local factory:

15 minutes later, rear in shade, front in bright sunlight:

5 minutes on, on a small country road in some shade:

At the site of a small lighthouse, a few miles from home. I took a variety of pictures at this location as the sun was starting to set (8.45pm):




And now for some really crazy ones (at the same location, within minutes of the others!) - copper?!:


Before I left the lighthouse site:

A few miles further down the road:


Has it turned into a black Roc? No, but the light suggests it has!


And the last photo in the session - phew!

Apparently, under showroom lights, a 'plum' tinge appears!