Which cars do not lose value: TOP-10
When buying a car, motorists are guided by their knowledge, experience and taste. First, they look at what they like, and then evaluate the characteristics, budget, and already in accordance with these criteria find the best option for themselves. But there are also pragmatic drivers who look ahead and when buying a car take into account another criterion - how much the car depreciates over the years. In this article we will tell you which cars do not lose value when used for several years, how this indicator is calculated and why it is important to take it into account when buying a vehicle.
What cars lose the least in price
Cars, like any machinery, lose some of their value after purchase. As soon as the car leaves the showroom, its price decreases by 10%, and after three years of operation, the loss can reach 25-50%. A sharp drop in value occurs when the factory warranty expires. After that, the rate of depreciation usually decreases.
Many factors influence how quickly a car depreciates in value:
- The demand for the model.
Popular models, especially in the mass segment, lose price more slowly, because there is always a great demand for them, and, consequently, they are easier and faster to sell. If the model is convenient and inexpensive to maintain, is familiar to motorists and has managed to prove itself well, its residual value will be kept at a high level.
- Brand prestige.
Name matters. Belonging to the prestigious brands Lexus, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, known for its quality, technology, reliability, adds value to the car.
- Technical condition.
Even the most liquid model will lose price if the car was poorly maintained. Timely maintenance, original spare parts, availability of service book, absence of serious accidents and transparent history of ownership - all this is critically important for both the most popular and rare cars.
- Availability of similar offers on the market.
If the secondary market already has a lot of similar models with similar parameters, it creates competition and contributes to lower prices. This phenomenon is especially noticeable against the background of mass sales and after the release of a new generation of the model. Rare versions in good condition and with "correct" equipment, on the contrary, keep the price high.
- General state of the economy.
Exchange rate, inflation, duties, availability of loans and even the political situation in the international arena - all this affects the behavior of buyers and demand in the secondary market. In times of crisis, when the supply of new cars is limited or they become sharply more expensive, used cars do not become cheaper and even, on the contrary, their prices can rise.
What brand of car best retains its value
We have ranked the car brands with the highest residual value on the market and ranked the specific car models that retain their value over the years. To compile the rankings, we conducted research by analyzing popular makes and models based on criteria such as:
- residual value in 3-5 years;
- liquidity on the secondary market;
- brand reputation;
- reliability;
- demand for used models.
So, what brands of cars lose less in price.
Toyota
Toyota cars have earned the reputation of "unkillable". This is an absolute favorite of the secondary market, as they have the highest resale value of the car. They are reliable, easy to maintain, on the road behave predictably, rarely break down, spare parts for them are available, and therefore the demand for models of the brand is always high. Even after several years of operation, the models of this brand retain about 65-75% of their original value, so buying a Toyota is a profitable investment.
Lexus
Lexus is a premium division of Toyota, and this is already a bid for high standards in the production of cars. Despite the fact that the brand belongs to the premium segment of the market, its content requires relatively small investments, but the resource is very large. On the secondary market Lexus cars stably keep the residual value at the level of 60-70% after 3-5 years of operation, and some models do not get cheaper at all due to the fact that the supply of these models in the market is limited. The fact that Lexus is actively developing hybrid technology is also in favor of the brand's liquidity.
Subaru
Subaru are reliable as tanks, have excellent cross-country ability, are equipped with symmetrical all-wheel drive and opposition engines, which provide excellent handling and stability on the road. With such characteristics Subaru are in high demand in regions with harsh climates and difficult roads. In the United States, Canada, European countries, Subaru cars with mileage keep the price at 58-65% of the original price. Outback, Forester are real bestsellers that are hunted for, and they never get stuck for long in the sale.
Porsche
Porsche is both an iconic premium brand that has achieved engineering excellence in its designs and an emotional investment. That's why Porsche cars hardly ever get cheaper, and in some cases their value only increases over time. Flagships of the brand - legendary 911 and popular Cayenne keep high residual value (at the level of 60-70%) even after 3-5 years of operation. Prerequisites for high liquidity are uncompromising quality of assembly, prestige, scarcity in the secondary market.
View the cars of Porsche brand
Honda
Honda is a brand with a reputation of one of the most reliable. Honda cars serve for decades, easily endure mileage of hundreds of thousands of kilometers and do not require expensive maintenance. They are economical in operation, spare parts for them are available, inexpensive, equipped with reliable electronics, which never fails drivers. With age, Honda does not lose its advantages, and therefore motorists are willing to pay a high price for cars of the brand with mileage. The residual value of Honda models with 3-5 years of experience is kept at 55-65%.
Jeep
Jeep is a brand with its own philosophy. The brand's cars retain value because of its authentic image and rugged construction. But this is not the only factor that affects the liquidity of the brand. The company builds vehicles designed to operate in harsh conditions. Even if Jeep will be rolled on bogs for 5 years, you will not find any traces of aggressive operation on it - except that rust will barely touch the sills. There are different versions in the model range of the brand, but the main hero both on the roads and on the secondary market is Wrangler. Thanks to its special status and unique form factor, the Jeep Wrangler retains up to 60% of its value after 3-5 years, and refined versions can be worth even more.
Mazda
Mazda has a few trump cards with which it enters the market. The first is the unique KODO philosophy - dynamic, emotional design even in compact models. The second is Japanese reliability and practicality. And the third is technology. In recent years, the brand has made a qualitative leap from an ordinary "average" to a stylish and respected alternative to expensive competitors. Over the years, the brand does not lose its position in the market, but on the contrary, it becomes more mature and wins more fans. Because of this, Mazda cars today confidently hold 52-58% of their value on the secondary market.
Kia
Kia is the story of how a budget brand became one of the strongest players in the mass and premium segments as a result of rapid progress. Over the past 10 years, the Korean brand has radically updated its model lineup, dramatically improved design, quality of materials and technological equipment. All this has directly affected the residual value of Kia cars - they hold about 50-55% of their price on the secondary market. Crossovers and fresh models with current technology hold their price especially well.
Hyundai
Like Kia, Hyundai has found success through quality, affordability, and technological advancement. The brand's current models successfully compete with popular Japanese cars, and a generous manufacturer's warranty further enhances customer loyalty. The residual value of Hyundai on the secondary market ranges from 48 to 54%. This low figure is partly due to the fact that Hyundai is still perceived as a mass brand. But at the same time, it cannot be overlooked that Hyundai is doing well with reliability, adaptation to harsh operating conditions. Their cars "don't break down, they renew" - so quickly the brand adapts to trends.
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz is an automobile brand with a history and impeccable reputation, which the manufacturer confirms year after year, decade after decade. In the premium class, Mercedes remains one of the most highly liquid brands. It is prestigious to own such cars, and the demand for them is always high. Despite the popularity and status of the brand, most models become cheaper faster than owners would like. After 3-5 years of operation their residual value will be at the level of 45-50% of the original one. The reasons for this decrease in value are high cost of maintenance, expensive components. But there is a separate category of cars, which are less subject to depreciation in the secondary market. These include G-Class SUVs and S-Class business sedans, which can be sold for 70% of the initial price.
What cars don't drop in value: Top 10
The loss of value of cars by brand, although not determinative, still affects the loss of value of specific models of these brands. We have made a rating of the most liquid car models, in which it is profitable to invest money today.
Toyota Land Cruiser (2021)
The Toyota Land Cruiser 300 is a new chapter in the history of the legendary SUV, first released in an updated modification in 2021. The model continues to epitomize endurance, status and technological maturity. The 2021 Land Cruiser 300 gets a muscular but concise design with clean body lines, a massive grille and LED optics. Externally, it became more aggressive, wider, but retained recognizable features. The model received a more expensive, premium interior - quality materials, improved noise insulation, ergonomics.
Instead of the old V8 Land Cruiser 300 received two new V6-biturbo - 3.5 liter gasoline (415 hp, 650 Nm) and 3.3 liter diesel (299 hp, 700 Nm). Both are paired with a 10-speed automatic. Permanent all-wheel drive with downshifting, electronic locks and Multi-Terrain Select system provide amazing off-road abilities. Improved chassis GA-F (based on TNGA) allowed to reduce weight and improve handling without loss of strength.
The main advantages of the model that determine its liquidity are its legendary reliability, image, consistently high demand in the aftermarket, and versatility. Toyota Land Cruiser 300 is the car that best retains its value on the secondary market (about 70-75%).
Toyota Hilux (2020)/ Tacoma (2024)
Toyota Hilux and Tacoma are two pickup trucks from the same brand, which enjoy huge and constant demand in different markets around the world. These models are a model of reliability and endurance. Both in the US and Asia, they are highly valued in both primary and secondary markets. Both cars have high life expectancy and low depreciation. After 3-5 years, these autos sell for up to 65-70% of their original price. This is a reflection of reputation, engineering excellence and buyer confidence.
Hilux is a modern interpretation of a utilitarian pickup truck. Aggressive exterior styling with wide grilles and powerful bumpers, rugged frame construction, diesel engines with up to 500 Nm of torque, four-wheel drive and lockers make it ideal for off-road, rough terrain and work tasks. The main motor for the global market is a 2.8 liter (204 hp) diesel with a 6-speed automatic transmission. There is also a 2.4 liter diesel and a 2.7 liter gasoline. Permanent rear and switchable all-wheel drive, locks, frame - everything you need for hard work and offroad. And to all these characteristics of the "workhorse" is a comfortable cabin with a good multimedia system, climate control and excellent noise insulation. Hilux is popular all over the world. It is used by armies, farmers, expeditions, and old cars still live and work.
The Tacoma, on the other hand, is in huge demand in the US and Canada. More technologically advanced and premium, it looks like the SUV of the future with a 326-horsepower i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, a modern TNGA-F platform, a huge 14-inch screen, a projection display and comfortable ventilated seats. In addition to the hybrid, non-electrified gasoline versions are also available. The new TNGA-F platform has made the pickup lighter and stiffer, improved handling. The transfer case, locks, FOX shock absorbers and Multi-Terrain system are ideal for off-roading. This is no longer just a work vehicle. It's a stylish vehicle that's comfortable and useful in all areas of life.
Porsche 911 (2024)
The Porsche 911 is the brand's iconic car - a legend. The design of the Porsche 911 is a recognizable silhouette with a rear overhang, sleek forms and clearly defined proportions. The 2024 update (992 series restyling) retained the shape of its predecessor. Of the updates, the sports car received aggressive air intakes, adaptive matrix optics. When developing the 911 interior, engineers and designers managed to combine pragmatic technology and premium aesthetics into a single concept. The restyled 2024 version features a fully digital dashboard (the first time in the model's history), an improved Porsche Communication Management multimedia system with a 10.9" display and an updated center console.
The heart of the new 911 is a turbocharged opposition six-cylinder engine, more powerful and more environmentally friendly. Depending on the equipment it is 3 liters (385 hp, 450 Nm), 450 hp and 480 hp. For the first time ever, the 911 Carrera introduced the GTS T-Hybrid with 541 hp, 610 Nm. Rear or all-wheel drive is available, transmission is PDK robot.
In general, Porsche 911 is a very rare case when a sports car over the years practically does not depreciate in value and remains in demand on the secondary market. Its market price after 3-5 years of operation varies within 65-70% of the initial cost. The value of the model is provided by the limited series, uniqueness of each version, durability and high quality of assembly, timeless design, brand support (reversible tuning, full support even for old models).
Lexus GX (2024)/ LX (2022)
The Lexus GX 550 and LX 600 are two representatives of premium SUVs that hold their price well on the aftermarket and are in consistently high demand. They are different in character and purpose, but they feel the common approach of Lexus - reliability, power and comfort.
Both models are built on a new frame platform TNGA-F, as well as Land Cruiser 300. They're designed to last for many years, which is one reason why the Lexus GX and LX are slowly losing value (after 3-5 years, they're still worth up to 60-68% of their original value).
The fresh GX 550 (2024 model year) is an SUV with a masculine design (massive grille, square arches, sleek lines and high stance). The car is created for active driving on difficult routes. With such an external concept of the all-terrain vehicle contrasts premium interior, finished with high-quality leather, natural wood, equipped with the latest technology. Under the hood, the GX 550 has a reliable V6 Twin-Turbo with 349 hp with all-wheel drive, locks and adaptive suspension.
LX 600 is the flagship of Lexus (the new generation is released in 2022). It is already the level of business class - a luxurious interior, two displays, high-quality materials, quiet ride and luxury options. However, for all its "parade", the LX is first of all a serious off-roader. It has the same reliable Twin-Turbo V6, permanent all-wheel drive, electronic locks, adaptive suspension. But the main thing in LX 600 is imageability. Such cars do not age neither externally, nor technically.
Toyota RAV4 (2024)
Drivers appreciate the RAV4 for its balance of useful features and versatility. It's spacious enough for a family, economical in the city, reliable in operation, and not afraid of bad roads. The fifth generation Toyota RAV4 received an update in 2024. The appearance of the crossover became even more modern and brutal. The interior has improved. In new generations, the interior became more ergonomic, and the materials are more qualitative and good.
As for the equipment, the driver has a choice between two variants of the power plant - gasoline (2 liters, 149 hp, variator) and hybrid (2.5 liters, 218 hp, e-CVT and all-wheel drive) - both very reliable and economical.
On the aftermarket Toyota RAV4 is always in the top, as it is one of the most popular crossovers in the world. It is willingly taken in any configuration, but hybrid versions are in special demand. On the secondary market you can sell RAV4 with 3-5 years of service for 60-65% of the original price. High residual demand is explained by the reputation of the brand, versatility, endurance, reliability of the transmission, economy and ease of maintenance. To date, the RAV4 is one of the most resilient vehicles in terms of residual value in the entire segment.
Subaru Outback (2023) / Forester (2024)
Against the background of the general desire of manufacturers to be original, Subaru remains true to itself. And that's the main strength of the Forester and Outback models. They are vehicles that retain their value thanks to their hardy construction, permanent all-wheel drive, good off-road capability, practicality and steady demand. They rarely linger on the market, and quality care allows them after 3-5 years of use to lose almost no value (sold for 58-62% of the original cost).
The Subaru Outback is a station wagon that has grown to become a crossover. In the restyling of 2023, it became more elegant, but it did not affect off-road performance in any way. Its widened arches, roof rails, high stance and 213mm ground clearance help the car tackle the most challenging roads. Spacious and functional inside, Subaru Outback on the technical side offers a classic, time-tested 2.5-liter (169 hp) opposition atmospheric engine, permanent Symmetrical AWD, X-Mode and Lineartronic variator.
Subaru Forester, updated for 2024, has become visually stricter and more technologically advanced. Restrained design, geometrically correct shapes, 220 mm of ground clearance and massive perimeter protection emphasize the character of the SUV. Forester is functional, has a high seating position and excellent visibility, intuitive interface, multimedia, heated seats, spacious trunk (minimum 505 liters). In the Forester set of the new generation the manufacturer left everything as it is, because it is reliable, enduring, ideal for any roads, for what it is highly appreciated by owners. It is already familiar atmospheric opposition engine 2L (150 hp), the same all-wheel drive and X-Mode.
Both models come equipped with advanced EyeSight with adaptive cruise control, lane keeping and emergency braking systems.
Honda CR-V (2024)
Honda CR-V crossover in the fresh generation 2024 received a more austere and solid appearance, the body became longer and wider. One of the key advantages of the model is a high ground clearance (208 mm). Thanks to high ground clearance, spacious and comfortable interior, CR-V is multifunctional (both for the city and for the country), and therefore is in demand among different categories of motorists. It is bought both as a family car, and for everyday trips, and for active rest.
The interior is minimalistic and functional, with good, wear-resistant finishing materials. In its class CR-V can offer one of the most capacious trunks (589 liters).
Available configurations - atmospheric 2 liter gasoline 150-160 hp and 1.5 liter turbo, 190 hp with variator transmission; hybrid version 2 liter e:HEV 200 hp with e-CVT. The cars are equipped with front- or all-wheel drive Real Time AWD.
CR-V does not eupatize, does not try to surprise you with new-fashioned chips. It offers what is really important - comfort, impeccable build quality, reliability and stable demand. These are cars that retain their value over the years.
Jeep Wrangler (2024)
Jeep is a brand with character, and the Wrangler is its face. The Wrangler's design has remained the same for decades, only the details change. The 2024 version gets a slight grille update, improved aerodynamics and new wheels. This is that unique case where the lack of change has advantages. Owners know that this is the kind of Jeep Wrangler that can go where no other vehicle can.
Inside, the designers focused on practicality and comfort. The interior is easy to clean, steering wheel, dashboard and seats are adapted for driving in difficult conditions.
On the world market there are several versions of engines - 2 liter turbo gasoline, 270 hp; 3.6 liter V6 Pentastar, 285 hp; 4xe hybrid (2 liter turbo + electric motor), a total of 375 hp. For the U.S. market, there is the Rubicon 392 (6.4L V8), 470 hp with an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission, all-wheel drive with lockers and a lowered row. This vehicle has one of the best in class entry/exit angles, is able to ford up to 85 cm deep.
Wrangler has practically no competitors on the market. Even after several years of use, the SUV retains about 55-60% of its original value, and non-stock versions with lifted suspension, off-road rubber, unique tuning are valued even more. An additional plus is the transformable body, simple and reliable design, high maintainability, and a huge ecosystem of accessories and parts.
Lexus RX (2023)
This crossover is often bought for families, as it's one of the most reliable, comfortable, and safe vehicles in its class.
The fifth-generation Lexus RX is bolder, sharper and more modern - the signature "spindle grille" is more integrated into the overall silhouette, the gently descending roofline, the LED headlights in the shape of lightning bolts. The new GA-K platform has made the RX lighter, stronger and more dynamic. Several powertrains are available for the 2023-2024 model year:
- RX 350 - 2.4-liter turbo engine, 275 hp, 8-speed automatic, all-wheel drive.
- RX 350h - hybrid with 2.5-liter atmospheric engine (244 hp) and e-CVT.
- RX 500h F SPORT Performance - top hybrid with a 2.4 liter turbo, two electric motors, total output of 366 hp, with 6-speed automatic and all-wheel drive chassis.
A prestigious brand with an impeccable reputation, premium quality, luxury equipment comes with comfort, economy, ease of maintenance, and reliability. That is why Lexus RX is slowly getting cheaper and is highly quoted on the secondary market. The car retains 55-60% of its original cost after 3-5 years of operation, and for the class of luxury crossovers this is a very high indicator.
Mazda CX-5 (2023)
The Mazda CX-5 in its current version continues the "KODO - Soul of Motion" philosophy and outwardly easily competes with models in the more expensive segment. The 2023-2024 crossover gets elegant body shapes, a revised front bumper, a new 3D grille and modernized LED optics with "signature lines".
The interior is calm, refined, in the spirit of Japanese minimalism. The control panel is ergonomic, most of the functions are duplicated by physical buttons.
Under the hood, the Mazda CX-5 offers a choice of two proven gasoline engines - 2 liters, 150 hp (6AT, front-wheel drive) and 2.5 liters, 194 hp (6AT, all-wheel drive). An enhanced i-Activ AWD system with Intelligent Torque Redistribution is also available for the 2023 model year, and diesel and turbo versions are available in some markets. Suspension is softer and noise insulation is more effective.
Mazda CX-5 successfully competes with cars of leading Japanese brands Toyota and Honda. Though it loses its value faster (after several years of operation it can be sold at the price of 52-55% of the initial one), but still enjoys a stable high demand in the secondary market. High quality of assembly, reliability of units, low maintenance costs, availability of parts and simplicity of design, versatility, prestigious design and premium interior are the main reasons for increased demand.
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