Most vehicles lose about 50% of their value in five years if you’re lucky. Some models, however, laugh in the face of depreciation and hold onto their value. These are the unicorns of the automotive world that will still be worth something when you decide to trade them in. Here are 22 vehicles with the best resale value, based on data from Kelley Blue Book (KBB), J.D. Power, and other resale value experts.
Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma is the undisputed king of resale value, retaining nearly 70% of its value after five years. Toyota’s reputation for durability plays a significant role: Tacomas routinely surpass 200,000 miles with minimal issues, making them highly sought after in the used market. Also, their body-on-frame construction, standard composite bed (which resists rust), and strong aftermarket support keep values high. The TRD models, especially the TRD Pro, retain even more value due to their off-road prowess.
Jeep Wrangler
Jeep Wranglers don’t just hold their value. They sometimes appreciate it, making them the unicorn of the used car market. Why? Durability, off-road capability, and timeless design. The Wrangler’s body-on-frame construction, solid axles, and removable top and doors make it unique, ensuring high demand in the used market. Also, limited supply and Jeep’s strong brand loyalty keep prices high. Even high-mileage Wranglers retain significant value, often selling for 60-70% of their original MSRP after several years.
Toyota 4Runner
With a reputation tougher than a $2 steak, the Toyota 4Runner keeps its value better than nearly any other SUV. The 4Runner’s high demand in the used market stems from its bulletproof 4.0L V6 engine, simple yet rugged drivetrain, and a strong reputation for longevity. Toyota’s low production changes ensure older models don’t look outdated, further boosting resale. And, thanks to its body-on-frame construction and a reliability record that’s the envy of the industry, it holds nearly 65% of its value after five years.
Porsche 911
Luxury sports cars typically depreciate like a rock off a cliff, but not the Porsche 911. The Porsche 911 has proven to be one of the best-appreciating sports cars, with classic and special-edition models skyrocketing in value. Air-cooled 911s (1964–1998) have seen dramatic gains; for example, the 1973 911 Carrera RS 2.7 has risen from ~$200,000 in the early 2000s to over $1 million today. Even modern limited editions like the 911 R (2016), initially priced at $185,000, quickly hit $500,000+ due to high demand. According to Hagerty, the 911’s appreciation rate outpaces inflation and many traditional investments.
Subaru Crosstrek
If you want an affordable, practical, and adventure-ready crossover that holds its value, the Subaru Crosstrek is a no-brainer. Built on Subaru’s proven Global Platform, it offers a rigid chassis for improved safety and handling. Its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, combined with 8.7 inches of ground clearance, makes it a capable off-roader. Also, the 2.5L Boxer engine in higher trims provides 182 horsepower while maintaining fuel efficiency at around 29 MPG combined. Subaru’s loyal following and all-wheel-drive standard help it retain over 62% of its value.
Chevrolet Corvette
The Corvette is a depreciation-defier. Classic Corvettes like the 1963 split-window Sting Ray, the L88-equipped C3s, and the ZR1 models appreciate significantly due to their limited production and historical significance. Further, the mid-engine C8, introduced in 2020, marked a revolutionary design shift, rivaling European supercars at a fraction of the cost. Corvettes hold value due to their performance, heritage, and exclusivity blend. Models like the 2023 Z06 with its flat-plane crank V8 are already considered future collectibles.
Toyota Tundra
The Toyota Tundra is a financial fortress. Unlike some competitors that see steep depreciation, according to Kelley Blue Book, the Tundra holds its value exceptionally well, often retaining over 60% after five years. This is mainly due to its I-Force 3.5L twin-turbo V6 (introduced in 2022) replacing the old V8, offering 389 hp and 479 lb.-ft of torque while improving fuel efficiency. Overall, the Tundra blends reliability with cutting-edge design, making it a worthy long-term investment.
Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is an economy car that refuses to be devalued. In terms of design, the Civic has evolved from a boxy eco no-car in the 1970s to a sleek, sporty sedan and coupe. The 11th-generation Civic (2022–present) features a mature, refined look, borrowing styling cues from luxury brands like Audi. Also, the fastback-inspired roofline, minimalist interior, and available Bose sound system give it a premium feel. And, thanks to bulletproof reliability and a massive used-car demand, a five-year-old Civic still commands around 60% of its original price.
Ford Bronco
Ford brought back the Bronco and, in doing so, also revived its resale value. Due to high demand and limited supply, early models were selling for above MSRP even after a few years, with depreciation barely being a factor. Ford engineered it for off-road dominance, equipping it with available 35-inch tires, locking differentials, and G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Terrain) modes. This blend of heritage styling and modern capability makes it a sought-after SUV, maintaining high desirability in the resale market.
Tesla Model Y
EVs typically depreciate fast, but the Tesla Model Y is an exception. According to iSeeCars, the Model Y depreciates around 40% over five years, compared to the industry average of 50%–60%. High demand, over-the-air software updates, and Tesla’s strong brand loyalty contribute to its solid resale value. Additionally, federal and state EV incentives help maintain used Model Y prices as new models become more expensive post-subsidy. The Model Y blends practicality, efficiency, and resale strength, making it a top EV choice.
Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is a family favorite and a resale value champ. In terms of design, the latest CR-V features a more rugged, refined look, taking cues from Honda’s larger SUVs. It has a bold hexagonal grille, sleek LED headlights, and muscular fenders, giving it a premium presence. The interior is also modern, with a minimalist dashboard, high-quality materials, and improved tech, including a 9-inch infotainment screen and wireless Apple CarPlay. And, with its practicality and style, the CR-V remains a top choice among compact SUVs.
GMC Sierra 1500
The GMC Sierra 1500, particularly in Denali trim, retains its value better than many of its rivals, keeping nearly 58% of its worth due to high demand in the used truck market. The Denali Ultimate trim takes luxury to new heights with full-grain leather, genuine wood accents, and a 13.4-inch infotainment system. Meanwhile, the AT4X trim packs serious off-road gear like Multimatic DSSV dampers and front/rear lockers. The Sierra 1500’s mix of rugged appeal and high-end tech makes it a resale champion.
Ram 1500
The Ram 1500 holds its resale value like a champ, though not quite like a Toyota Tacoma (those things appreciate like fine wine). Still, the Ram 1500 boasts a solid five-year depreciation rate of around 40-50%, depending on trim, mileage, and whether you’ve treated it like a workhorse or a garage princess. The Rebel and Limited trims hold value better than base models, thanks to demand for off-road and luxury features. Want top resale? Keep it clean, avoid mods (no 12-inch lifts, please), and sell privately.
Mazda CX-5
With its sleek styling and premium interior, the Mazda CX-5 holds nearly 60% of its value, making it one of the best compact crossovers for resale value. Speaking of design, the CX-5 isn’t just another SUV potato. It rocks Mazda’s Kodo design philosophy, meaning it looks in motion even when parked. The interior? Classy enough to make some luxury brands sweat, with premium materials, a driver-focused cockpit, and just enough buttons to feel high-tech without spaceship confusion. So, if you want an SUV that won’t depreciate like a melting ice cream cone and still turns heads at stoplights, the CX-5 is your ride.
Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry is the sedan that never dies, and used buyers know it. Thanks to its legendary reliability, decent fuel economy, and “I’ll-outlive-you” engine, a well-maintained Camry retains about 50-60% of its value after five years. Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds often rank it among the best in resale value. You could drive this thing for 300,000 miles without significant issues. It’s the automotive equivalent of oatmeal: reliable, good for you, and never truly goes out of style.
Subaru Outback
Thanks to Subaru’s legendary symmetrical all-wheel drive, boxer engine, and a fanbase that treats these wagons like sacred chariots, the Outback retains around 60% of its value after five years (Kelley Blue Book loves it). And, with 8.7 inches of ground clearance, it laughs at potholes and minor off-road adventures, while its cavernous cargo space (75.6 cu ft with seats down) can fit everything from camping gear to an alarming number of Costco-sized snack packs.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Full-size trucks hold their value well, and the Silverado 1500 is no exception. This half-ton workhorse has been hauling, towing, and making driveway mechanics feel invincible since 1999. Packing engines from a humble 2.7L turbo-four to a pavement-ripping 6.2L V8 offer everything from fuel economy to “hold my beer” power levels (up to 420 hp). Also, with trims from “just a truck” (WT) to the luxury High Country, there’s a Silverado for everyone. Reliable, brawny, and borderline invincible, it’s the truck you buy when you need to get stuff done.
Toyota Land Cruiser
If you were lucky enough to buy a Toyota Land Cruiser before its U.S. exit in 2021, congratulations. Designed originally for military use, this beast evolved into a luxury tank that refuses to die. With a bulletproof reputation for reliability, the Land Cruiser has conquered everything from war zones to soccer practice. Beloved by adventurers, UN peacekeepers, and overlanders alike, the Land Cruiser holds its value better than gold. If you ever see one abandoned, check for hidden treasure.
Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson is a trusty steed in the compact SUV corral. But how does it fare when it’s time to trade in those spurs? Let’s saddle up and explore its resale value with a wink and a nod. Regular maintenance and low mileage are key to keeping your Tucson’s value from riding off into the sunset. And remember, while that custom flame decal might seem like a hot idea, it could cool buyers’ enthusiasm faster than a snowman in July. So, while Tucson may not be the valedictorian of value retention, with a little TLC, it can still graduate with honors in the resale rodeo.
Lexus GX
The Lexus GX holds its resale value like a stubborn goat on a mountainside. This luxury SUV refuses to depreciate like its German rivals due to body-on-frame construction, a V8 (until 2024), and legendary Toyota reliability. Also, according to iSeeCars, the GX ranks among the top 10 slowest-depreciating SUVs, losing around 37% of its value over five years, compared to the 50%+ drop of some competitors. If you’re buying one, be ready to pay a premium. If you’re selling, congrats—you’ve been driving a rolling savings account.
Ford F-150
The Ford F-150 is America’s best-selling truck, and for good reason—it’s tougher than a $2 steak and more reliable than your grandma’s cast-iron skillet. First introduced in 1975, the F-150 has evolved into a high-tech workhorse, offering everything from a basic work truck to a luxury chariot with massaging seats (because hauling lumber is exhausting). And, with 46 years of dominance and 40+ million units sold, the F-150 is the Beyoncé of trucks.
Dodge Challenger
The Dodge Challenger holds its resale value surprisingly well—probably because people love big, loud, slightly impractical muscle cars. One reason? Limited production and high demand—nobody wants a V6 Challenger when they can get a V8 that sounds like it’s yelling at pedestrians. Plus, Dodge keeps making special editions, keeping interest high. Used prices skyrocketed during the pandemic, with some Hellcats selling for more than new ones. While prices are stabilizing, a well-kept Challenger still fetches good money. What is the moral of the story? Buy a Challenger, enjoy it, and when it’s time to sell—don’t be shocked if it’s still worth a chunk of change.
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