Most people focus on the upfront cost and financing options when buying a car. However, one of the most critical aspects of car ownership that often gets overlooked is the vehicle’s resale value. A car’s resale value is the money you can expect to get when you sell or trade it in after several years of ownership. Cars with high resale value offer better long-term value and lower the total cost of ownership. Here are 15 cars with the best resale value and why they’re worth the investment.
Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma has consistently topped resale value charts for years. This midsize pickup truck is known for its reliability, durability, and off-road capability, making it a favorite among truck enthusiasts. Its substantial resale value is partly due to Toyota’s reputation for building long-lasting vehicles. Moreover, Tacoma’s rugged design and strong demand in the used market ensure that it retains a significant portion of its original value even after several years.
Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler is another vehicle known for its exceptional resale value. The Wrangler’s iconic design, off-road prowess, and strong brand loyalty make it a favorite among adventurers and car enthusiasts. The fact that it has remained relatively unchanged over the years adds to its appeal, as older models don’t look outdated compared to newer ones. The Jeep Wrangler’s unique combination of ruggedness and lifestyle appeal keeps demand high, maintaining its resale value.
Toyota 4Runner
The Toyota 4Runner is renowned for its exceptional resale value, consistently ranking among the top SUVs in its class. According to Kelley Blue Book, the 4Runner retains an impressive 63.5% of its value after five years, significantly higher than the average for SUVs. This strong resale value is also supported by its body-on-frame construction, which appeals to off-road enthusiasts, and its long-standing reputation for longevity. The 4Runner’s low depreciation rate is bolstered by Toyota’s strong brand image and the vehicle’s relatively low maintenance costs.
Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is a versatile wagon that combines an SUV’s benefits with a car’s comfort. According to Kelley Blue Book, the Subaru Outback has been recognized for its excellent resale value, often retaining more than 60% of its original value after five years. Additionally, the Outback’s popularity in the used car market is bolstered by its robust build quality and the brand’s loyal customer base. The 2020 Outback, for instance, received high marks for its longevity and practicality, further contributing to its desirability among second-hand buyers. Subaru has a loyal customer base, and the Outback’s reliability ensures it remains a high-demand vehicle in the used car market.
Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is one of the most popular compact SUVs on the market, and its reputation for low maintenance costs and longevity contributes to its strong resale performance. Also, the car’s practicality, including ample cargo space and advanced safety features, makes it a preferred choice for families, further boosting its demand in the used car market. The model’s consistent updates, including integrating modern technology like Honda Sensing® safety features in recent years, keep it competitive against newer vehicles.
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV that blends practicality with reliability, making it a top choice for families. With a spacious interior, advanced safety features, and Toyota’s reputation for durability, the Highlander retains its value well over time. The vehicle’s versatility and comfort make it a desirable option in the used car market, ensuring it maintains a significant portion of its original value when it’s time to sell.
Porsche 911
The Porsche 911 is an iconic sports car with a strong following among enthusiasts. Its longevity in value is as legendary as its performance, partly because it’s one of the few cars that age like fine wine. Models from the ’80s and ’90s, mainly the 964 and 993, are now considered classic gems, fetching top dollar at auctions. Even more recent models hold their value thanks to Porsche’s relentless pursuit of perfection and that iconic design that screams “I’ve arrived.” Porsche’s meticulous engineering means 911s often have low mileage and are in top condition, making them a safe bet for investors. Plus, with a dedicated fan base and limited production runs, the 911 is less likely to depreciate like a pair of jeans on sale.
Chevrolet Corvette
The Chevrolet Corvette is like that one friend who’s always invited to parties because they’re just plain awesome—and it shows when it comes to value! The Corvette’s resale value is famously resilient due to its iconic status and performance chops. According to Kelley Blue Book, the Corvette consistently holds strong in resale, often topping the list of best sports cars for retaining value. Even with depreciation, you’re looking at a vehicle that holds its worth better than a vintage comic book or a classic arcade game. Factors like the car’s low production numbers, high demand, and legendary status mean that while your bank account might take a hit buying it new, selling it later could be a sweet financial win.
Toyota Land Cruiser
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a full-size SUV with a legendary reputation. Although it comes with a hefty price tag, the Land Cruiser retains its value exceptionally well, thanks to its durability and global demand. For instance, a 2020 Land Cruiser has been reported to retain around 60% of its value after three years, significantly higher than the average for SUVs. The vehicle’s robust build quality, loyal customer base, and high demand in the used market contribute to its impressive resale value. Additionally, it’s known to last for hundreds of thousands of miles, making it a prized vehicle.
Ford F-150
The Ford F-150 is the best-selling truck in the United States. As of 2024, the F-150’s resale value is bolstered by its strong performance in various categories, including reliability and consumer satisfaction. The F-150’s wide range of configurations and options, from basic work trucks to luxury trims, ensures broad appeal and helps maintain its value. The Truck Trend’s 2024 Best Resale Value Award for the F-150 highlights its robust resale value. Moreover, data from Edmunds indicates that well-maintained F-150s can retain up to 60% of their original value after three years, underscoring the truck’s strong depreciation resistance and high demand.
Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is a compact car that has been a staple in the automotive world for decades. According to Edmunds, Civics typically retain a higher percentage of their original value than many other vehicles in their class. This enduring desirability makes the Honda Civic a wise choice for those considering it as an investment. Plus, Honda’s reputation for building long-lasting vehicles ensures that the Civic remains a top choice in the used car market. Whether as a first car or a daily commuter, the Civic’s low cost of ownership makes it a smart choice.
Lexus GX
The Lexus GX is a luxury SUV that combines the ruggedness of a traditional SUV with the refinement of a Lexus. The GX’s robust V8 engine and advanced features also attract buyers, maintaining its desirability in the used vehicle market. Furthermore, Lexus’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction enhances GX’s long-term value. Lexus vehicles, in general, are known for their longevity, and the GX is no exception. Its blend of luxury and durability ensures that it remains a desirable option in the used car market, contributing to its worth.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a lightweight, fun-to-drive sports car with a cult following. Due to their rarity and unique features, the Miata’s limited production special editions, such as the RF and Club models, often see higher resale demand. Enthusiast forums and resale data support these trends, indicating that well-maintained Miatas with low mileage and factory options fetch premium prices in the used car market.
Subaru Crosstrek
The Subaru Crosstrek is a compact crossover offering a perfect feature blend. Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system and high safety ratings contribute significantly to its appeal. In 2023, the Crosstrek was listed among the top 10 Best Resale Value Cars by Kelley Blue Book, reflecting its continued demand in the used car market. Additionally, Subaru’s commitment to low-cost maintenance and durable components further supports its high value. As a result, owners can expect a strong return on investment when selling or trading in their Crosstrek.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a full-size pickup truck known for its durability, towing capacity, and advanced technology. Like the Ford F-150, the Silverado has a substantial resale value due to its popularity and wide range of configurations. The Silverado 1500’s wide range of trims and configurations allows buyers to select a model that best fits their needs, further enhancing its appeal. The truck’s reputation for reliability and strong performance makes it a top and smart choice for investment.
11 Cars that are Known for Breaking Down Regularly
No car company wants to deliver a dud. However, even though companies try their best to deliver excellent cars, some cars turn out to be lemons, breaking down frequently. This creates problems for both the consumer and the manufacturer.
11 Cars that are Known for Breaking Down Regularly
