The top used cars that hold their value best include the Toyota Tacoma, Toyota Tundra, and Toyota 4Runner, known for their reliability and off-road capabilities. The Ford Bronco and Honda CR-V also excel in retaining value, while the Subaru Crosstrek stands out in its segment. Luxury models like the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Porsche 911 showcase exceptional resale stability. Enthusiasts particularly favor the Chevrolet Corvette for its minimal depreciation. Exploring these options reveals more about wise investment choices.
Highlights
- Toyota Tacoma retains approximately 64% of its value after five years, making it a strong contender in used car value retention.
- The Toyota Tundra boasts a remarkable 70.92% residual value after five years, showcasing its investment potential.
- Porsche 911 excels in value retention with only 15% depreciation after five years, appealing to luxury and performance enthusiasts.
- Ford Bronco achieves a commendable 66.7% residual value, proving its worth in the competitive used vehicle market.
- Subaru Crosstrek experiences just 19% depreciation over two years, positioning it as a financially sound choice among subcompact vehicles.
Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma stands out as a leading contender in the used car market, particularly noted for its impressive value retention. Its rugged design and off-road capability make it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, enhancing its allure. After five years, the Tacoma retains approximately 64% of its original value, a noteworthy statistic that positions it favorably against competitors like the Ford Bronco and Chevrolet trucks. This resilience in resale value is attributed to its bulletproof reliability, brand trust, and strong market demand for midsize trucks. Furthermore, Toyota models like the TRD Off-Road exemplify how specialized trims can command higher resale prices, further solidifying the Tacoma’s status as a top choice for those seeking long-term value and performance on varied terrains.
Toyota Tundra
While many full-size trucks experience significant depreciation, the Toyota Tundra demonstrates an impressive ability to retain its value over time. With only a 29% value loss over five years and a residual worth of 70.92%, the Tundra stands out in its class. Its renowned Tundra reliability and durability guarantee that it remains in demand, even with higher mileage. The Tundra maintains a residual value of 52.83% after ten years, substantially outperforming competitors. Practical design and low maintenance costs further contribute to its appeal in the resale market. Toyota Tundra depreciation values are relatively low compared to other vehicles, making it an advantageous option for prospective buyers. Private-party sales reflect higher values compared to trade-ins, showcasing its desirability. This combination of factors cements the Tundra’s reputation as a top choice for those seeking high resale value in a full-size truck, which helps guarantee that it remains in demand.
Toyota 4Runner
Toyota 4Runner
Known for its off-road prowess and sturdy design, the Toyota 4Runner exemplifies a vehicle that effectively retains its value throughout the years. With a remarkable 53% of its MSRP retained after five years, its depreciation patterns align with the highest industry standards. The resale performance is particularly noteworthy; the 2019 TRD Pro, for instance, retains an impressive 77.4% of its original value. Strong demand for its off-road capability contributes to maintaining these resale prices, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts. Customers appreciate the exceptional reliability and durability of the 4Runner, evidenced by high ratings in comfort and performance. Moreover, the 4Runner’s high resale value is indicative of its solid reliability records. This SUV is specifically built with high-quality components that ensure its lasting performance over time.
Ford Bronco
With a strong lineage in off-road capability similar to the Toyota 4Runner, the Ford Bronco has emerged as a formidable contender in the used car market. Recognized as the 2024 KBB Best Resale Value award winner, the Bronco showcases exceptional durability and consumer demand. Its off-road capabilities and vehicle customization options attract adventurous buyers, maintaining a high five-year residual value of 66.7%. Despite an initial depreciation of 32% in the first two years, it consistently outranks competitors like the Toyota Tacoma. This noteworthy accolade indicates that the Bronco’s expected retention of value will benefit long-term owners. The strategic purchase of a two-year-old model can save buyers approximately $25,100. The Bronco’s 66.7% resale value reflects its popularity and strong market presence among buyers seeking reliable off-road vehicles.
Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V stands out in the used car market for its impressive value retention, making it a preferred choice for many consumers. According to value retention metrics, it depreciates 33% over five years, maintaining a strong 67% residual value, backed by a 63.52% retention rate demonstrated in an iSeeCars study. Its depreciation rate exhibits stability after the initial drop, with only 1.5% the first year and a steady decline thereafter. A Crush Analysis reveals a competitive average resale value of $26,527 at five years. Additionally, a 2-year-old Honda CR-V has already depreciated by $8,404, showcasing how quickly newer models can experience value loss. This vehicle consistently ranks well within its category, providing reliable resale value projections and solidifying its standing against competitors, while capturing the interest of budget-conscious buyers seeking enduring quality in their investment. The CR-V’s proven reliability further enhances its appeal, as it is known to be one of the most dependable SUVs on the market.
Toyota RAV4
Reliability and solid market performance enhance the Toyota RAV4 as a key player in the used car scenery, particularly for those prioritizing value retention.
With a five-year depreciation rate of only 31%, the RAV4 retains approximately $26,223, signifying its strong resale value.
The vehicle’s outstanding RAV4 reliability, coupled with lower maintenance costs, promotes enduring demand among buyers.
Its position as a best-selling car globally further highlights its appeal, making it a favored choice within the compact SUV market.
Even older models from 2016-2020 continue to command high prices, showcasing long-term value retention.
As hybrid variants gain traction, their fuel efficiency may amplify resale value, ensuring the RAV4 remains a top contender in the used car arena.
Subaru Crosstrek
Recognized for its impressive retained value, the Subaru Crosstrek stands out in the competitive scenery of used cars.
A resale analysis shows that it ranks #1 in retained value after three, five, and seven years, outperforming the majority of other subcompact SUVs.
The 2023 model exhibits a mere 19% depreciation over two years, retaining lower depreciation than 90% of its peers.
Its durability supports substantial longevity benefits, as 96% of Subaru vehicles sold in the last decade remain operational.
With a projected 63.40% residual value after five years, the Crosstrek delivers exceptional financial returns, allowing owners to sell for $6,000 more than subcompact competitors.
This combination of reliability and value makes the Crosstrek a wise investment choice.
Chevrolet Corvette
Among high-performance vehicles, the Chevrolet Corvette distinguishes itself with notable resale value retention.
The 2023 model has a current resale value of $61,557, while the 2021 version retains an impressive 49.5% of its value after five years, underscoring strong Corvette performance in the market.
Moreover, the Corvette consistently ranks in the top tier for depreciation, demonstrating its ongoing desirability and collectible status.
Buyers can expect an average savings of approximately $6,945 when choosing a used 2022-2023 model versus its newer counterpart.
This combination of minimal depreciation and sturdy resale value guarantees that potential owners feel confident in their investment, promoting a sense of community among Corvette enthusiasts who appreciate high performance and exceptional retention.
Mercedes-Benz G-Class
While the luxurious Mercedes-Benz G-Class often garners attention for its distinctive design and rugged capabilities, it is also notable for its impressive resale value retention.
Prized for its luxury branding, the G-Class maintains strong resale stability, with outstanding-condition models achieving retail sale prices up to $119,723.
After five years, depreciation rates hit 53%, yet an impressive 25.88% of the original value remains after ten years.
Unique features, such as off-road capabilities and timeless design, contribute to the vehicle’s allure among enthusiasts.
Higher trim levels exhibit narrower value gaps, enhancing desirability within exclusive ownership demographics.
Despite maintenance costs, the G-Class continues to appeal to individuals seeking both functionality and status, reinforcing its position in the luxury SUV market.
Porsche 911
The Porsche 911 stands as a tribute to automotive engineering, revered for its enduring performance and distinctive design.
This iconic model remarkably retains value, with a mere 15% depreciation over five years, contrasting sharply with typical luxury depreciations.
The coupe variant excels in this regard, retaining its position as a value-retention champion among Porsches.
While base models may experience a slight decline, high-performance Turbo and GTS versions hold their value better, reflecting the brand’s commitment to Porsche performance.
The 911’s earlier generations, particularly the 991.1 and 991.2 models, maintain stable prices, offering savvy buyers an attractive opportunity in the market.
References
- https://www.kbb.com/awards/best-resale-value-cars-trucks-suvs/
- https://www.sherpaautotransport.com/guides/best-resale-value-cars/
- https://mediaroom.kbb.com/2025-03-04-Kelley-Blue-Book-Announces-2025-Best-Resale-Value-Award-Winners
- https://caredge.com/guides/cars-suvs-trucks-with-the-best-resale-value
- https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-used-cars-10-top-picks-a8027733372/
- https://www.copilotsearch.com/posts/toyota-tacoma-resale-value/
- https://www.autodealertodaymagazine.com/375597/toyota-dominates-resale-value-ranking
- https://www.kbb.com/toyota/tacoma/2023/depreciation/
- https://www.toyotaofdothan.com/top-3-toyota-models-best-resale-value-dothan-al-serving-ozark-and-enterprise.html
- https://www.torquenews.com/1084/i-didnt-think-my-2024-toyota-tacoma-road-would-lose-so-much-value-after-just-one-year-dealer