Car enthusiasts in India understand the importance of sun-control films (or sunfilms). Not only do they make a world of difference in keeping the cabin cool, but they also protect interiors from UV damage and reduce glare. Over the years, I’ve tested and seen the impact of various brands, and today, three names dominate this space: Garware, 3M, and CarPro.
These brands each cater to a different segment of the market, but which one should you opt for? Let’s break it down based on key factors like price, quality, heat and UV rejection, visibility, and legal compliance.
Price Range & Offerings
One of the first things buyers consider is cost; sunfilms can range from budget-friendly to premium. Here’s a look at how Garware, 3M, and CarPro compare:
Garware: The name synonymous with affordability, Garware has been a homegrown leader for decades. Their basic tints start as low as ₹1,980–2,750 for a standard roll, while a full-car installation with their 70% visibility film costs ₹9,350 on average. The premium Ice Cool Shield and Arctic series with advanced heat rejection are priced slightly higher, at ₹4,675–5,225 for a windshield, and a complete installation typically remains under ₹14,850 for a sedan.
3M: The global giant in automotive films, 3M caters primarily to the premium segment. The highly acclaimed Crystalline series costs anywhere between ₹24,200–35,200 for a mid-size sedan, and a complete installation of 3M CR70 can set you back ₹30,250. Their budget-friendly RE70 series starts at around ₹7,975, proving that even within 3M, there is a range to cater to different buyers.
CarPro: A relatively newer brand that is already making waves, CarPro sits between the budget and luxury segments. Their Immortal UVX nano-ceramic films bring premium performance at a reasonable cost. A CarPro UVX70 windshield film costs around ₹6,325, while side-and-rear packages range from ₹9,625 (hatchback) to ₹14,300 (SUVs). A full sedan installation would be around ₹17,050–18,150, making it an attractive choice for those looking for performance at a moderate price.
Verdict: Garware dominates in affordability, 3M leads in premium offerings, and CarPro balances high-tech features with reasonable pricing.
Quality & Durability
Sunfilms aren’t just about initial performance but how they hold up over time. Here’s a comparison of their materials and warranties:
- 3M: The Crystalline series is built using a patented multi-layer nano-technology with over 200 ultra-thin layers, making it durable and non-metallic, so it doesn’t interfere with GPS/cell signals. A standard 5-year warranty backs their films, and in some countries, 3M even offers a lifetime warranty.
- Garware: This Indian brand has been in the game long enough to perfect its craft. While their older films relied on dyed polyester, their new Arctic Cool and Ice Cool series incorporate nano-particles for superior heat rejection and clarity. Many users have reported Garware sunfilms lasting decades with minimal deterioration. Their warranty coverage is 5 years, a testament to their durability.
- CarPro: Their Immortal UVX series is nano-ceramic based, which enhances longevity and clarity. Unlike traditional metallic films, CarPro ensures superior heat rejection without affecting GPS or mobile signals. Impressively, they offer a 10-year warranty, the longest among the three brands.
Verdict: 3M has a legacy of durability, Garware is proven in real-world longevity, and CarPro’s 10-year warranty makes it a formidable contender.
Heat & UV Rejection
India’s brutal summers can make a car feel like an oven, which is why heat rejection is crucial. Here’s how these brands perform:
- 3M Crystalline rejects up to 60% total solar energy and 97% of infrared (IR) rays, which directly cause heat buildup.
- Garware Arctic Cool & Ice Cool claim to reject 47–50% of total solar energy and 83–91% of IR rays.
- CarPro UVX70 delivers 50% total solar energy rejection and 95% IR rejection.
As for UV protection, all three brands are equally outstanding, blocking over 99% of harmful UV rays, ensuring protection for both occupants and the car’s interiors.
Verdict: 3M offers slightly superior heat rejection, but Garware and CarPro’s high-end films are nearly as effective.
Visibility & Clarity
A good sunfilm should maintain excellent visibility both during the day and at night. The latest premium films from all three brands score well here:
- 3M Crystalline is known for “invisible clarity”, meaning it doesn’t distort the view or scatter light.
- Garware Arctic Cool (SG69) offers 70% visible light transmission (VLT) with minimal haze.
- CarPro UVX70 maintains superior optical clarity without darkening the glass.
At night, all three perform admirably, with users reporting little to no impact on visibility. Even in rain, their high transparency ensures a safe driving experience.
Verdict: 3M leads in optical clarity, but Garware and CarPro’s new-generation films are very close behind.
Compliance with Indian Regulations
Recently, the Kerala High Court ruled in favor of sunfilms, provided they adhere to 70% VLT for windshields and 50% VLT for side windows. While this ruling sets a precedent, it’s expected that other states will follow suit soon, making legal high-VLT sunfilms a reality.
With enforcement becoming more lenient, Garware, 3M, and CarPro all offer films that comply with the legal 70/50 transparency limits.
Verdict: With courts easing restrictions, expect a sunfilm revolution in India. Opt for high-VLT (lightest) films from Garware, 3M, or CarPro to enjoy the benefits without legal hassles.
Final Thoughts – Which One Should You Choose?
- Go for 3M Crystalline if you want the absolute best and don’t mind spending extra.
- Pick Garware if you’re looking for an effective, affordable option that delivers great performance.
- Choose CarPro if you want high-tech nano-ceramic films with a long warranty at a mid-range price.
Regardless of your choice, all three brands now offer legal, high-quality sunfilms that improve driving comfort while protecting you from the harsh Indian sun.
So, go ahead—invest in a good sunfilm and make your drives cooler, safer, and more enjoyable. The best car experiences come when you drive in comfort!
