In the automotive world, depreciation is an unavoidable reality. Except for rare collectibles, nearly every new car loses value the moment it leaves the dealership. The first few years of ownership see the steepest decline, making depreciation the largest hidden cost for new car buyers.
While used cars are often touted as the smarter financial decision, some new models manage to retain their value exceptionally well. Consumer preferences, shifting trends, and innovation all influence which vehicles hold their worth.
This article analyzes the top ten cars with the lowest five-year depreciation, based on data from over 800,000 used vehicles.
10. Toyota Corolla Hatchback: Affordable Longevity
The Toyota Corolla Hatchback takes the tenth spot, with an average five-year depreciation of just 30.1%, significantly beating the industry average of 45.6%. It offers practicality, efficiency, and spaciousness, but doesn’t necessarily appeal to driving enthusiasts.
Still, the modest $7,156 value drop over five years makes it a smart choice for cost-conscious buyers.
With solid fuel economy and Toyota’s reputation for reliability, the Corolla Hatchback proves that an economical compact car can also be a financially savvy investment. It’s an ideal choice for first-time car owners, daily commuters, or anyone looking to minimize total ownership costs over time.
9. Porsche 718 Boxster: A Sunny-Day Steal
Despite being a sports car, the Porsche 718 Boxster retains its value remarkably well, depreciating by 29.6% over five years. The open-top layout may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it shines in climates that favor convertibles.
Compared to its sibling, the Cayman, it loses slightly more value, possibly due to higher production numbers. Still, a $22,155 depreciation is reasonable for a luxury sports car.
With a turbocharged flat-four engine and Porsche pedigree, the Boxster remains an appealing choice for those seeking both driving pleasure and a fair shot at value retention. It’s a fun, smart splurge.
8. Ford Mustang: Iconic and Enduring
The Ford Mustang holds onto value better than expected for a muscle car, with a 29.2% depreciation rate over five years. With a V8 engine option and the availability of a manual transmission, it appeals to traditional driving purists.
A $9,352 drop in resale value reflects its desirability and the fact that gas-powered sports cars are slowly becoming rarer. Buyers seem to recognize this, contributing to higher residual values.
The Mustang’s blend of performance and nostalgia makes it a strong contender not only for fun but also as a long-term investment, particularly in its more powerful configurations.
7. Toyota Tundra: The Underrated Workhorse
The Toyota Tundra is the only full-size pickup in this list, with a depreciation rate of 29.1% over five years. Its $11,659 average value loss is relatively low given its utility and size. With a fuel-efficient twin-turbo V6 and above-average reliability, the Tundra beats out its more popular rivals like the Ford F-150 in terms of resale performance.
This makes it a great choice for buyers needing a capable truck with long-term value. It’s a testament to how durability, practicality, and brand reputation can counterbalance the higher initial investment associated with full-size trucks.
6. Chevrolet Camaro: Discontinued but Desired
Though it ended production recently, the Chevrolet Camaro maintains strong value retention, depreciating just 28.0% in five years. With a classic muscle car identity and available V6 or V8 engines, the Camaro continues to attract enthusiasts. The $8,653 drop in value is relatively modest for a car that blends performance with affordability.
Manual transmission V8 models, in particular, could see appreciation in value due to their rarity. Despite visibility issues and interior design flaws, the Camaro’s legacy and performance credentials have helped it stand the test of time, even as production winds down.
Also Read: 10 Best Cars That Will Never Leave You Stranded
5. Honda Civic: The Everyman’s Champion
The Honda Civic is a symbol of affordable reliability, with just 28.0% depreciation over five years. That translates to a $6,987 value drop, the smallest dollar amount on this list. Known for fuel efficiency, safety, and a premium-feeling design, the Civic is a top pick for budget-conscious buyers.
Its consistent quality has made it a perennial favorite among commuters and students alike. Even in base trim, the Civic holds its own in styling and comfort, proving that even economy cars can deliver long-term value. Leasing one is also attractive due to its predictable residual value.
4. Chevrolet Corvette: America’s Exotic
The mid-engine Corvette C8 has revolutionized expectations for American performance cars. It boasts the fourth-lowest depreciation—27.2%—and loses $18,557 in value over five years. Starting at under $60,000 when launched, its price has climbed with its reputation.
Yet even at today’s prices, it delivers unmatched value in the sports car world. With a 6.2-liter V8 engine and sub-3-second 0–60 times, the Corvette competes with exotic cars at a fraction of the cost.
It continues to be a head-turner that’s also surprisingly practical in terms of value retention, making it a dream car you won’t necessarily lose money on.
3. Toyota Tacoma: Mid-Size, Maximum Value
The Toyota Tacoma earns its third-place ranking with only 26.0% depreciation, equaling an $8,217 drop. With off-road prowess, excellent reliability, and high resale value, it’s no surprise that the Tacoma is the king of the mid-size truck segment. A 2024 redesign improved every aspect of the vehicle, from powertrains to safety tech.
Whether used for work, play, or daily driving, the Tacoma appeals to a wide audience. Its ability to command strong prices on the used market makes it both a practical and emotional purchase for truck lovers. It’s a rugged, dependable option that holds up well financially.
2. Porsche 718 Cayman: Small Car, Big Value
The Porsche 718 Cayman, with a 21.8% depreciation rate and a $15,851 loss over five years, is a standout in the sports coupe category. It offers a more budget-friendly entry point into Porsche ownership compared to the 911, yet delivers an equally thrilling driving experience.
The car’s balance, performance, and Porsche cachet all contribute to its strong resale value. Even as a niche vehicle, the Cayman proves that demand stays strong for quality-built sports cars. Buyers seeking style and performance without the financial burden of rapid depreciation would do well to consider this compact Porsche.
1. Porsche 911: The Depreciation King
The 911 is not only Porsche’s flagship—it’s also the least depreciating new car you can buy in 2025, with only a 19.5% drop over five years. Despite a $24,428 dollar-value difference, it holds its value better than any competitor. This is impressive given its luxury status and high initial price.
Part of this is due to its iconic design, unmatched driving dynamics, and Porsche’s limited production approach. Special trims like the 911 Turbo S or GT3 variants may even appreciate over time. Whether bought new or used, a 911 represents the ultimate combination of prestige, performance, and value retention.
Car buyers who consider depreciation when shopping stand to save thousands in the long run. The average vehicle loses nearly half its value in five years, but the models on this list defy that trend.
With rates ranging from 19.5% to 30.1%, these vehicles prove that smart shopping can make new car ownership more financially viable. Sports cars, especially from Porsche and Chevrolet, performed surprisingly well, hinting at changing consumer tastes and perhaps the waning era of internal combustion.
Whether you’re looking for excitement or utility, there’s a vehicle on this list that won’t let your money go to waste.
Also Read: 10 Cars That Make the Most Financial Sense in 2025 as Living Costs Keep Rising
