Evaluating the Car Resale Value of Popular Models: What Holds Value Best?

Resale value, or value retention, influences how much money you'll get back when you decide to sell or trade-in your vehicle. Factors like brand reputation, model reliability, and market demand all play a role in how well a car retains its value.  

How to Determine What Impacts Your Vehicle’s Resale Value 

To determine what impacts your vehicle’s resale value, consider these key factors: 

1. Brand Reputation: Cars from well-known and trusted brands usually hold their value better.
2. Model Popularity: Popular models with high demand tend to retain their value longer. Niche or less popular models might depreciate more quickly.
3. Mileage: Generally, the more miles a car has, the lower its resale value. However, if a car is well-maintained, high mileage can be less of a factor.
4. Condition: A vehicle's overall condition affects its resale value. Regular maintenance and a clean interior and exterior can help preserve value.
5. Maintenance History: Keeping a detailed service record and addressing issues promptly can boost a car’s resale value, even if it has high mileage.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can make choices that help maintain or improve your vehicle’s resale value. 

Comparing Resale Values Across Car Types and Brands 

Some cars hold their value better than others, depending on their type and brand reputation. Let’s break down how various car types—such as SUVs, luxury vehicles, and electric cars—stack up in terms of resale value. 

1. Top Resale Value Cars 

Here are the top 10 cars known for their high resale value: 

• Chevrolet Corvette: This iconic sports car stands out with its powerful performance and timeless design.
• Ford Bronco: With its rugged off-road capabilities and distinctive style, the Bronco has become highly sought after.
• Ford Maverick: This compact pickup truck offers versatility and practicality, which contribute to its impressive resale value.
• Mercedes-Benz G-Class: Known for its luxury and off-road prowess, the G-Class maintains high resale value due to its enduring appeal and high-quality build.
• Porsche 718 Cayman: This sporty coupe delivers a thrilling driving experience and maintains its value thanks to its high performance and strong brand reputation.
• Toyota 4Runner: A reliable SUV with off-road capabilities, the 4Runner is valued for its durability and longevity.
• Toyota GR Supra: This sports car combines performance with style, making it a popular choice that holds its value well.

• Toyota Prius: As a leader in hybrid technology, the Prius remains a strong performer in resale value due to its fuel efficiency and environmental benefits.
• Toyota Tacoma: Known for its reliability and off-road capability, the Tacoma is a top pick in the truck category for resale value.
• Toyota Tundra: This full-size pickup truck retains value well because of its strong performance, durability, and brand reputation.

These cars are recognized for their high resale values due to factors like brand reputation, durability, and popularity. 

2. Top Small Car Resale Value Canada

Here are the top 10 small cars with the best resale value: 

• Honda Fit: Retains 80.1% of its value after 5 years, thanks to its efficient design and reliability, with 5-year-old models averaging $17,701.
• Toyota Yaris Hatchback: Holds 77.8% of its value after 5 years, benefiting from its compact design and Toyota’s strong reputation.
• Honda Civic: Retains 76.6% of its value, with 5-year-old models averaging $21,002, due to its popularity and reliability.
• Mazda3: Keeps about 75.0% of its value, known for its sporty handling and stylish design.
• Toyota Corolla: Maintains 73.4% of its value, praised for its reliability and fuel efficiency.
• Subaru Impreza: Retains 72.1% of its value, appreciated for its all-wheel drive and solid build.
• Hyundai Elantra: Holds approximately 71.8% of its value, featuring a modern design and strong warranty.
• Kia Forte: Retains around 70.5% of its value, offering value-packed features and a stylish look.
• Volkswagen Golf: Keeps about 69.8% of its value, known for its versatile design and enjoyable driving experience.
• Ford Fiesta: Holds around 68.0% of its value, providing a sporty and economical option.

These small cars are valued for their build quality, reliability, and brand reputation. 

3. Top SUV Resale Value 

Here are the top 10 SUVs with the highest resale values: 

• Jeep Wrangler: Retains 91.1% of its value after 5 years. Its rugged build and off-road capabilities make it a top choice.

• Toyota Land Cruiser: Holds 65.1% of its value. Known for its durability and long-term reliability, it performs well in the large SUV segment.
• Lexus LX 570: Retains 63% of its value. This luxury large SUV is appreciated for its premium features and strong brand reputation.
• Toyota Highlander: Maintains 61.9% of its value. A popular choice for families, it offers reliability and practicality in the 7-seater category.
• Jeep Wrangler Unlimited (Plug-in Hybrid): Keeps 83.1% of its value. This hybrid model is favored for its blend of off-road prowess and eco-friendly technology.
• Lexus RX 350: Holds 65.3% of its value. This luxury midsize SUV is valued for its comfort and quality.
• Subaru Crosstrek: Retains 69.8% of its value. Its compact size and all-wheel drive make it a strong contender in the subcompact SUV segment.
• Lexus NX 350: Keeps 66% of its value. Known for its luxury and compact design, it holds strong in the luxury small SUV market.
• Tesla Model Y: Retains 53.3% of its value. This electric SUV is valued for its innovation and performance.
• Lexus UX 200: Holds 66.4% of its value. This luxury subcompact SUV is known for its stylish design and high resale value.

These SUVs are noted for their strong resale values due to their build quality, brand reputation, and overall appeal. 

4. Top Luxury Car Resale Value 

Here are the top 10 luxury cars with the best resale value: 

• Porsche 911: Retains 91.7% of its value. This iconic sports car is known for its performance and timeless design.
• Lexus RC 300: Holds 67.8% of its value. As a luxury small car, it combines style with reliability.
• Chevrolet Corvette (Hybrid Coupe): Retains 68.5% of its value. This hybrid model blends performance with advanced technology.
• Porsche 718 Boxster: Maintains 73.1% of its value. This luxury convertible is praised for its sporty handling and design.
• Tesla Model 3: Holds 53.3% of its value. Leading the luxury electric car segment, it's known for innovation and performance.
• Polestar 1: Retains 59.9% of its value. This luxury plug-in hybrid is valued for its performance and design.
• Porsche Panamera: Maintains 60.9% of its value. Known as a luxury wagon, it offers high-end features and performance.
• Mercedes-Benz S-Class (Coupe): Retains 56.1% of its value. This large luxury car is renowned for its comfort and sophistication.

• Lexus LC 500: Holds 62.3% of its value. As a luxury midsize car, it offers a blend of style and performance.
• Lexus LX 570: Retains 63% of its value. This luxury large SUV is appreciated for its durability and premium features.

These luxury cars are noted for their high resale values, thanks to their quality, brand reputation, and performance. 

5. Top Electric Car Resale Value 

Here are the top 10 electric cars with the highest resale values: 

• Rolls-Royce Spectre: Retains 58.6% of its value after 5 years. This luxury electric car stands out for its premium build and exclusivity.
• Smart EQ fortwo (Hatchback): Holds 57.2% of its value. Known for its compact size and practicality, it offers strong resale value.
• MINI Hardtop 2 Door (Electric): Maintains 55.7% of its value. Its stylish design and compact nature contribute to its high resale value.
• Tesla Model 3: Retains 53.3% of its value. As a leading electric car, it’s known for its range and performance.
• Tesla Model Y: Holds 53.3% of its value. This electric SUV offers a combination of space and technology.
• BMW i3: Maintains 50.5% of its value. Its unique design and efficiency contribute to its strong resale value.
• Audi e-tron: Retains 49.2% of its value. Known for its luxury features and performance, it’s a popular choice in the electric market.
• Ford Mustang Mach-E: Holds 48.6% of its value. This electric SUV is praised for its performance and style.
• Chevrolet Bolt EV: Maintains 45.8% of its value. It offers practicality and affordability in the electric car segment.
• Hyundai Kona Electric: Retains 44.5% of its value. Known for its range and features, it’s a competitive option in the electric vehicle market.

These electric cars are recognized for their strong resale values due to their build quality, brand reputation, and overall appeal. 

6. Top Hybrid Car Resale Value

Here are the top 10 hybrid cars with the highest resale values: 

• Toyota Prius: Retains 55.3% of its value after 5 years. Known for its fuel efficiency and reliability, the Prius is a leading hybrid choice.
• Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: Holds 56.8% of its value. This popular SUV combines practicality with impressive hybrid technology.

• Honda Insight: Maintains 53.4% of its value. As a compact hybrid sedan, it’s valued for its efficiency and sleek design.
• Honda Accord Hybrid: Retains 52.2% of its value. This midsize sedan is known for its comfort and fuel economy.
• Ford Escape Hybrid: Holds 50.6% of its value. This hybrid SUV offers versatility and advanced features.
• Lexus RX 450h: Maintains 49.8% of its value. As a luxury hybrid SUV, it combines high-end features with hybrid efficiency.
• Toyota Camry Hybrid: Retains 48.5% of its value. The Camry Hybrid is valued for its reliable performance and comfort.
• Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid: Holds 47.7% of its value. Known for its efficiency and modern design, it’s a strong contender in the hybrid market.
• Kia Niro: Maintains 46.3% of its value. This compact hybrid SUV offers a blend of practicality and fuel efficiency.
• Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid: Retains 44.5% of its value. Known for its all-wheel drive and hybrid efficiency, it’s a popular choice for those seeking a versatile hybrid.

These hybrid cars are recognized for their high resale values due to their efficient performance, reliability, and strong market demand. 

Smart Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Car’s Resale Value 

To maximize your car’s resale value, consider the following practical tips: 

1. Keep Up with Regular Maintenance. Regularly servicing your car and keeping detailed records can significantly boost its resale value. Well-maintained cars are more attractive to buyers and are likely to command a higher price. 
2. Address Minor Repairs. Fix minor issues before selling. Small repairs, such as replacing worn-out tires or fixing minor dents, can make a big difference in how your car is perceived by potential buyers. 
3. Maintain a Clean Interior and Exterior. A clean car always looks more appealing. Regular washing and interior cleaning can help your car look well-cared for, making it more attractive to buyers. 
4. Avoid Excessive Customizations. While personalizing your car may be tempting, it’s best to stick with factory settings or neutral modifications. Customizations might not appeal to all buyers and could affect resale value. 
5. Minimize Mileage. Lower mileage typically translates to higher resale value. If possible, try to limit your driving and keep your car’s mileage low.
6. Keep the Original Documentation. Retain all paperwork, including the owner’s manual and service records. Having these documents available can reassure buyers about the car’s history and condition.
7. Choose the Right Time to Sell. Market conditions can impact resale value. Selling your car during peak seasons, such as spring or early summer, can sometimes yield better prices.
8. Be Honest About the Car’s Condition. Full transparency about your car’s condition builds trust with potential buyers and can prevent issues during the selling process. 

By following these tips, you can enhance your car’s resale value and ensure you get the best return on your investment. 

Benefits of Buying a Car with High Resale Value 

Choosing a car with high resale value comes with several advantages: 

1. Lower Cost of Ownership

Cars that retain their value well depreciate slower, meaning you lose less money over time. This can translate to lower overall costs for ownership. 

2. Better Trade-In or Resell Opportunities

A vehicle with strong resale value provides better options when you decide to trade it in or sell it. The higher resale price can be used to fund your next car purchase or other financial goals. 

3. Improved Financial Flexibility

By saving money on depreciation, you have more flexibility in your budget. This can make it easier to afford your next vehicle or invest in other areas. 

4. Higher Return on Investment

Investing in a car that maintains its value well means you get more back when you decide to sell. This can be particularly beneficial if you frequently upgrade your vehicle. 

5. Enhanced Negotiation Power

Cars with strong resale values often hold their worth better, giving you leverage in negotiations for trade-ins or new purchases. 

Buying a car with high resale value not only helps you save money in the long run but also offers better opportunities when you’re ready to move on to your next vehicle. 

Why are Certain Car Makes More Desirable in the Resale Market 

Some car makes fetch higher resale prices due to these factors: 

1. Reliability and Durability: Brands like Toyota and Honda are known for their long-lasting performance, making them more valuable.
2. Fuel Efficiency: Cars with great mileage, like compact cars and hybrids, hold their value well due to lower running costs.
3. Popularity and Demand: High-demand models with a good reputation are worth more on the used market.
4. Brand Reputation: Trusted brands such as Lexus and Porsche generally have higher resale values.
5. Available Features: Cars with advanced features or premium trims retain more value.
6. Ownership Costs: Vehicles with low maintenance and repair costs are more attractive to buyers.

Cars that are reliable, fuel-efficient, popular, from reputable brands, feature-rich, and low-cost to own generally have higher resale values. 

Best Platforms to Resell Cars 

When reselling your car, the platform you choose can impact how quickly and profitably you sell it. Popular options include Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist for local sales, where you can list your vehicle for free and reach a community audience.  

CarHub is an excellent option, particularly if you want a platform that specializes in automotive sales. We offer features customized to both buyers and sellers, enhancing the chances of a successful sale.  

When choosing a platform, consider factors like ease of use, target audience, and any associated fees. Go for a platform that aligns with your goals and offers the best visibility for your vehicle. Contact us now. 

Key Takeaways 

Here are 5 key takeaways from this blog post: 

• Brands like Toyota, Honda, and Lexus often retain their value well, thanks to their reliability and strong market demand.
• Vehicles known for their dependability and low maintenance costs generally have better resale values.
• Cars that offer great fuel efficiency are more appealing and hold their value better, especially as fuel prices rise.

• Well-regarded brands with a history of quality and customer satisfaction tend to have higher resale values.
• Cars with desirable features and advanced technology often see better resale values due to increased buyer interest.