Most vehicles lose value the moment they leave the dealership, and for many buyers, the rate of depreciation over the years plays a crucial role in their purchasing decision.
Whether you’re in the market to buy or sell, the way a car retains its residual value can determine whether you snag a great deal on a used model or suffer a significant financial loss.
Hybrid vehicles strike a balance between fuel efficiency and performance, but unfortunately, they tend to depreciate faster than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
For instance, models like the Jeep Wrangler currently maintain 75.12% of their value over five years.
In contrast, the best-performing hybrid model in terms of value retention after three years holds approximately 79% of its original value, highlighting a clear disparity.
However, if you’re considering purchasing a hybrid, there’s good news some models still retain their value exceptionally well.
After thorough research, we’ve identified five hybrid vehicles that excel at holding their value over three years, along with five that depreciate more rapidly.
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1. Toyota Corolla Hybrid
Value Retention After 3 Years: 79.8%
The Toyota Corolla Hybrid lineup embodies Toyota’s reputation for practicality, reliability, and no-nonsense engineering.
Featuring LED headlights, a streamlined silhouette, and a focus on aerodynamic efficiency, the Corolla Hybrid offers a sporty yet functional design for everyday use.
Beyond its stylish appeal, the Corolla Hybrid leads the market in value retention, boasting an impressive reliability score of 79 out of 100.
Toyota Corolla Hybrid Performance Specifications
| Engine | 1.8-Liter Inline-Four w/ Three Permanent-Magnetic Motors |
|---|---|
| Transmission | CVT |
| Horsepower | 138 HP |
| Torque | 105 lb-ft |
| Driveline | Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive |
The 2025 Toyota Corolla Hybrid’s base trim starts at an MSRP of $23,625. After three years of ownership, you could potentially resell it for up to $18,853.
Even better, the Corolla Hybrid only depreciates by 28.05% after five years and 37.65% after seven years.
If you keep up with maintenance, limit your annual mileage to around 12,000 miles, and seek an economical ride, the Corolla Hybrid is a solid choice.
Toyota Corolla Hybrid Pros
- Excellent value retention.
- Impressive fuel economy—around 42 MPG combined.
- Multiple trim options available.
Toyota Corolla Hybrid Cons
- The engine lacks power.
- No performance upgrades across trim levels.
- Limited trunk space.
2. Lexus ES 300h
Value Retention After 3 Years: 73.2%
The 2024 Lexus ES 300h presents a luxurious package with an elegant and refined design.
Featuring Lexus’ signature spindle grille, sleek body lines, and a high-end interior, this model offers a 12.3-inch touchscreen, leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and remote climate control.
Surprisingly for a luxury vehicle, it also retains its value exceptionally well. With a reasonable starting price of $44,165, the ES 300h is one of the few midsize luxury sedans currently available.
A three-year-old model could still command a resale price of around $32,329, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a comfortable, long-term sedan.
Lexus ES 300h Performance Specifications
| Engine | 2.5-Liter Inline-Four w/ Single Motor |
|---|---|
| Transmission | CVT |
| Horsepower | 215 HP |
| Torque | 163 lb-ft |
| Driveline | Front-Wheel Drive |
| 0-60 MPH | 8.1 Seconds |
| Top Speed | N/A |
Equipped with the Lexus Hybrid Synergy System and a robust 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine, the ES 300h achieves an impressive combined fuel efficiency of 44 MPG.
Inside, it offers 42.4 inches of front legroom and 39.3 inches of rear legroom. It has also earned a 5-star safety rating from the NHTSA, making it a well-rounded choice that blends luxury, comfort, safety, fuel efficiency, and Lexus’ renowned reliability with cutting-edge engineering.
Lexus ES 300h Pros
- Strong horsepower output for its class.
- Elegant and upscale design.
- Comfortable and well-appointed interior.
Lexus ES 300h Cons
- Acceleration is relatively slow, taking 8.1 seconds to reach 60 MPH.
- Rear seats do not fold down.
- No all-wheel-drive option is available.
3. Toyota Prius
Value Retention After 3 Years: 70.47%
The Toyota Prius remains one of the most recognizable hybrid hatchbacks on the road. Having pioneered the hybrid segment in the late 1990s, it continues to hold a strong position despite increasing competition.
The latest model is capable of achieving up to 57 MPG combined and an impressive range of up to 644 miles on a single tank.
Additionally, the Prius consistently ranks among the best hybrid models for value retention over 3, 5, 7, and even 10 years.
| 5-Year Value Retention | 60.29% |
|---|---|
| 7-Year Value Retention | 51.59% |
| 10-Year Value Retention | 43.15% |
Toyota Prius Performance Specifications
| Engine | 2.0-Liter Inline-Four w/ Twin Motors |
|---|---|
| Transmission | CVT |
| Horsepower | 196 HP |
| Torque | 139 lb-ft |
| Driveline | Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive |
The Prius features one of Toyota’s most advanced hybrid systems, continually refined through Toyota’s Kaizen methodology. Over the years, it has become increasingly efficient and intuitive.
The electronically controlled planetary gear system efficiently manages power distribution, while regenerative braking maximizes energy recovery. Buyers can choose between a lithium-ion or nickel-metal hydride battery, further enhancing its efficiency and performance capabilities.
Toyota Prius Pros
- Outstanding fuel efficiency.
- Proven Toyota Prius engineering and reliability.
- More powerful than the 2023 model.
Toyota Prius Cons
- Limited rear-seat space.
- Some owners report noticeable engine noise at high speeds.
- The gauge cluster placement may be obstructed by the steering wheel, according to reviews.
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4. Honda Accord Hybrid
Value Retention After 3 Years: 70.29%
The Honda Accord Hybrid exemplifies Honda’s dedication to merging efficiency with sophistication. Externally, it features sleek LED headlights, a wide stance, a striking front-end design, and aerodynamic body lines that contribute to its modern appeal.
Inside, the Accord offers a spacious and refined cabin equipped with a range of advanced technology, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a generous cargo capacity of up to 16.7 cubic feet.
Honda Accord Hybrid Performance Specifications
| Engine | 2.0-Liter Inline-Four w/ Twin Motors |
|---|---|
| Transmission | EVT |
| Horsepower | 204 HP |
| Torque | 247 lb-ft |
| Driveline | Front-Wheel Drive |
The Accord Hybrid is available in four trims: Sport, EX-L, Sport L, and Touring.
Each trim comes with the same Atkinson-cycle twin-motor powertrain setup, providing efficiency and performance at a reasonable price.
Starting at $32,195 for the base trim, the Accord Hybrid holds its value well, with depreciation of just under 30% over three years. This makes it a smart choice for those looking for a long-term, reliable sedan.
| Trim | MSRP | Value After 3 Years |
|---|---|---|
| Honda Accord Sport | $32,195 | $22,630 |
| Honda Accord EX-L | $33,840 | $23,786 |
| Honda Accord Sport L | $34,175 | $24,022 |
| Honda Accord Touring | $38,190 | $26,844 |
Honda Accord Hybrid Pros
- Strong power output for a hybrid sedan.
- Decent fuel efficiency.
- A good range of tech features, even on the base trim.
Honda Accord Hybrid Cons
- No all-wheel-drive option is available.
- Some premium features are only offered on higher trims.
- Interior design may not appeal to everyone.
5. Kia Sorento Hybrid
Value Retention After 3 Years: 69.63%
The 2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid is designed for family life, offering three rows of seating, second-row captain’s chairs, and a comfortable interior.
With a starting price of $38,690, it boasts a fuel-efficient powertrain that delivers up to 36 MPG combined, along with a maximum cargo capacity of 75.5 cubic feet when the seats are folded down.
Additionally, it provides solid towing capabilities and advanced safety features, including Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance, and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance.
Kia Sorento Hybrid Performance Specifications
| Engine | 1.6-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four w/ Single Motor |
|---|---|
| Transmission | Six-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 227 HP |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft |
| Driveline | Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive |
| Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs |
The Sorento Hybrid is available in two trims: EX and SX Prestige.
Both trims come well-equipped with a range of technology, luxury, and comfort features, such as dual-zone climate control, push-button start, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and remote start.
If you purchase the Sorento EX Hybrid at its MSRP of $38,690, it could retain a value of $26,940 after three years. Meanwhile, the Sorento SX Prestige, with an MSRP of $46,890, could be resold for $36,490 within the same timeframe.
Kia Sorento Hybrid Pros
- Comes with a solid list of standard tech features.
- Offers good fuel economy for an SUV.
- Spacious interior with three rows of seating.
Kia Sorento Hybrid Cons
- Cargo space is significantly reduced when the third row is in use.
- The engine could use more power given the Sorento’s size.
- Towing capacity is lower than some competitors in its segment.