When considering a new car, whether you plan to drive it extensively or only keep it for a short period, resale value is a crucial yet often overlooked factor to take into account.
Buying a vehicle that quickly depreciates could result in higher costs when you return to the dealership, and in some situations, you may even find yourself upside down on your loan, owing more than your car is worth.
Many car buyers focus on their immediate needs, but factoring in a vehicle’s resale value can serve as valuable protection when it’s time to visit the dealership again.
This consideration becomes even more important as the prices of new cars continue to rise. So, which 2023 models are forecasted to retain their value the best, offering the most value for buyers when it’s time to upgrade?
Chevrolet Corvette
The automotive world has been captivated by the new C8 Corvette, and it’s easy to see why. This American-made, mid-engine supercar delivers driving excitement that makes its $65,895 starting price a real steal.
The 2023 Corvette is powered by a 6.2-liter V-8 engine, generating 490 horsepower, allowing the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds. And that’s for the standard version.
As the Corvette celebrates its 70th anniversary, buyers can still expect to get a significant return on their 2023 model when the car reaches its 75th year.
The 2025 Corvette Stingray may be the entry-level model in Chevy’s sports car lineup, but it certainly doesn’t feel basic.
This high-performance vehicle is equipped with a 490-hp 6.2-liter V-8 engine located behind the cabin, providing enough power to achieve an impressive 2.8-second 0-60 mph time in our testing.
While the Corvette no longer offers a manual transmission, the eight-speed automatic performs excellently, selecting gears smoothly and delivering quick shifts when using the steering-wheel-mounted paddles.
The handling is exceptional, so agile and well-balanced that it encourages you to push further into each corner. However, raw power and cornering ability aren’t the only reasons the Corvette stands out.
It is also an excellent daily driver, offering a comfortable cabin, a smooth ride, and surprisingly generous cargo space for a sports car. Its performance alone makes it deserving of a 2025 10Best award, but its versatility only adds to its appeal.
If you opt for one of the top 3LZ models, you’ll enjoy luxury features such as a Bose stereo, upgraded sport seats, a head-up display, and nappa leather upholstery.
The fact that all of this comes in a mid-engine Corvette with exotic styling, at a fraction of the price of a Ferrari, Lamborghini, or McLaren, is impressive. The Corvette can still turn heads just like its more expensive rivals.
For those looking for even more performance, the Corvette E-Ray, Corvette Z06, and the upcoming Corvette ZR1 offer exhilarating upgrades, all of which we review separately.
Ford Bronco
The 2023 Ford Bronco is available in both two- and four-door body styles, with a choice of 10 trims and an abundance of aftermarket parts that support entire specialty businesses.
Regardless of how buyers configure their 4X4 off-road vehicle, the 2023 Bronco is expected to retain a significant portion of its value over the next five years, outperforming other all-terrain vehicles on this list, including the Wrangler and 4Runner.
Kelley Blue Book predicts that the current Bronco will maintain 65.4 percent of its original value over five years. For a base model priced at $36,390, this means it could still be worth nearly $24,000 by 2028.
Additionally, its collectability and loyal fan base could help it become a sought-after collector’s item, especially for models like the 2023 Heritage Limited Edition.
If you’re in the market for a compact SUV with off-road capability, the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport stands out as the top choice. Drawing inspiration from its larger, mid-size counterpart, the Bronco, it embodies more than just a stylish design.
The base model of the Bronco Sport features an 180-hp turbocharged three-cylinder engine, which is sourced from the Ford Escape. However, unlike the Escape, the Bronco Sport comes standard with all-wheel drive and has higher clearances, making it more suitable for trail riding.
While all models of the Bronco Sport are capable of handling some off-road challenges, certain trims, like the Outer Banks and Badlands, can be equipped with the Sasquatch package, which enhances its off-road capabilities.
When not being used for rugged adventures, the Bronco Sport is still a practical and easy-to-live-with daily driver.
Its interior is functional, though rivals such as the Honda CR-V and Volkswagen Tiguan offer more rear-seat space. Despite this, the Bronco Sport demands few compromises and offers the ability to reach places that its competition simply can’t. It is a solid choice on the 2025 Editors’ Choice list.
Tesla Model X
The 2023 Tesla Model X earns two notable distinctions on Kelley Blue Book’s top 10 list for best resale value in 2023: it’s the only electric vehicle (EV) in the rankings and the top SUV on the list.
KBB forecasts that the Model X will retain just under two-thirds of its value, specifically 66 percent, over the next five years.
This is promising for Tesla enthusiasts, as the Model X now faces competition from a variety of new rivals, including the Rivian R1S, Cadillac Lyriq, BMW iX, and others in the luxury all-electric SUV market.
With a starting price of $101,380, a base Model X is projected to hold a value of around $67,000 by 2028.
For those who opt for the Plaid version, which boasts a powerful 1,020-horsepower, tri-motor configuration, the price increases by $10,000, but buyers can expect their investment to be worth nearly $80,000 after five years.
The 2025 Tesla Model X, which is nearing a decade in existence, remains a fresh and innovative vehicle. As Tesla’s first SUV, it continues to impress with features like its panoramic windshield and power-operated falcon-wing rear doors.
Despite its age, Tesla has kept the Model X relevant through continuous small engineering updates and over-the-air tech improvements. The vehicle is offered with seating configurations for five, six, or seven passengers and has an EPA-estimated range of up to 329 miles on a single charge.
In its Plaid trim, which boasts 1,020 horsepower, the Model X is capable of outpacing many hypercars, making it a standout at the local drag strip.
Despite being part of the first generation introduced in 2016, the Model X is still a compelling choice for families in the electric vehicle market. It combines performance with practicality, offering impressive acceleration and range. However, there are a few downsides.
For instance, the upward-swinging falcon-wing rear doors can be somewhat impractical, and the large windshield lets in an abundance of sun and heat, making the cabin warmer than some might like. Additionally, the Model X still lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which some may find disappointing.
In terms of charging, the Model X supports the North American Charging Standard (NACS) and is compatible with Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast charging stations. The vehicle’s battery is covered by an 8-year or 150,000-mile warranty, which is a standard offering in the industry.
While there are no federal rebates available for the Model X in some areas, the vehicle’s overall cost of driving remains competitive compared to other electric SUVs. The Model X also showcases Tesla’s commitment to innovation with its unique approach to shifting.
Rather than using a traditional gear lever, knob, or button, the Model X relies on a virtual shifter that appears on the 17-inch infotainment screen when the driver presses the brake pedal. By swiping up, the vehicle switches to drive, while swiping down shifts it into reverse.
Additionally, there is an option for Auto Shift, where the vehicle’s sensors automatically determine the appropriate direction based on its surroundings. If the infotainment screen malfunctions, a backup touch-sensitive gear selector is available.
As the electric vehicle market has expanded since the Model X’s debut, it now faces competition from various brands, such as the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, Kia EV9, Rivian R1S, and Lucid Gravity.
Buyers who don’t require a third row of seating may also find the Audi Q8 E-tron, BMW iX, Genesis Electrified GV70, and Polestar 3 to be strong alternatives.
Despite this growing competition, the Model X continues to stand out due to its performance, range, and Tesla’s unique design approach.
Toyota Tacoma
Whether you call it a Tacoma, a Taco, or a Yota, Toyota’s 2023 mid-size truck is still a solid choice when it comes to resale value. The Tacoma ties the Tesla Model X on Kelley Blue Book’s list for resale value over the next five years, with an expected retention of 66 percent.
This isn’t surprising to anyone who has ever searched for a used Tacoma and been taken aback by how high the prices are for pre-owned models.
The current-generation Tacoma has been around for eight years but continues to be the best-selling mid-size truck, and it was the top-seller in 2022 among all models featured on this list.
The 2023 Tacoma starts at $29,085, meaning buyers can expect it to retain a value of around $19,000 after five years.
The 2025 Toyota Tacoma is a versatile compact truck that balances everyday utility with strong off-road performance. With refined powertrains and comfortable front seats, the Tacoma is well-suited to handle a variety of tasks, from daily commutes to rugged adventures.
This truck offers a solid list of standard features, a smooth ride in its higher trims, and potent engine options, all contributing to its overall appeal.
However, the Tacoma does have its drawbacks. The rear-seat space is limited, making it less suitable for passengers on longer trips. Additionally, while its towing capability is respectable, it lags behind some of its competitors in this area.
The infotainment setup also leaves room for improvement, as it doesn’t quite match the technology offerings found in some rival trucks.
For 2025, the Toyota Tacoma sees no major changes. It continues to offer seating for two to five passengers. Toyota’s commitment to quality is reflected in the Tacoma’s consistent ranking near the top of its class.
In terms of performance, the Tacoma’s suspension and braking systems offer smooth handling, making it capable of navigating both winding roads and tough terrains. Compared to the outgoing model, the fourth-generation Tacoma provides improved stability and control.
While lower trims offer a more responsive ride, higher trims focus on added comfort for both daily driving and weekend adventures. The truck’s steering offers great feedback, making it equally enjoyable on-road and off-road.
There are three powertrain options available for the 2025 Tacoma. The base turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides sufficient power for everyday driving, while the upgraded version of this engine delivers more muscle for hauling and tougher tasks.
For those seeking a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, the hybrid option is an excellent choice. When properly equipped, the Tacoma is capable of towing up to 6,500 pounds.
Toyota Tundra
While the Toyota Tundra may not match the sales figures of the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, or Silverado 1500, it surpasses these pickups when it comes to retaining value.
The Tundra claims the top spot on Kelley Blue Book’s list for the best resale value in 2023, with an impressive 73.3 percent expected retention over the next five years.
This means that buyers who purchase a $39,660 base SR model can still expect their truck to be valued at an impressive $29,000 after five years.The Tundra’s exceptionally high predicted five-year resale value is not surprising, given the resale performance of previous year models.
The Tundra plays a significant role in helping Toyota maintain its title as the best resale value brand for the sixth time in seven years. The 2025 Toyota Tundra is a durable and reliable full-size pickup truck that balances comfort for daily driving with strong performance for work tasks.
While its towing and hauling capacities might fall short compared to some of its competitors, the Tundra still delivers commendable performance that makes it a solid choice for various needs.
Key benefits of the 2025 Toyota Tundra include its robust powertrain options, a clean and well-constructed interior, and a user-friendly infotainment system.
However, it does have a few drawbacks, such as its lower towing and hauling abilities relative to rivals and a highway fuel economy that is somewhat average for the class.
For 2025, the Tundra receives several updates, including standard power-adjustable front seats on the SR5 trim and massaging seats in the 1794, Platinum, and Capstone trims.
There are also new available packages, such as the TRD Rally package and the Tow Tech package, along with an optional power tailgate.
The Tundra seats five passengers and is available with both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations. It offers a horsepower range of 358 to 437, depending on the powertrain selected.
It also receives high marks for safety, reliability, and value, with a particular strength in fuel economy, where it earns a perfect score of 10.0.
On the road, the Tundra stands out for its smooth, SUV-like handling, thanks to a coil-spring rear suspension that absorbs road imperfections well.
An optional adaptive suspension further enhances ride comfort. Despite its large size, the truck is easy to maneuver, with light and responsive steering, and its brakes provide smooth and confident stopping power.
Three powertrain options are available for the 2025 Tundra. The base option is a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 358 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque.
A more powerful version of this engine is tuned to deliver 389 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The third option is a hybrid powertrain that combines the twin-turbo V6 with an electric motor to produce 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque.
All models come with a 10-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive as standard and four-wheel drive as an option.
While the Tundra no longer offers a V8 engine, the twin-turbo V6 provides strong performance, especially in the hybrid trims. The truck can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a notable 6.5 seconds and has enough power to easily overtake other vehicles on the highway.
The hybrid powertrain (known as i-Force Max) adds extra low-end torque, further enhancing its capability. The 10-speed automatic transmission generally provides smooth shifts, though there may be occasional hesitation in gear changes.
Also Read: Top 10 Cars With the Best Cooling Systems for Long-Lasting Engines
Cars With the Worst Resale Value
When it comes to driving to impress, luxury vehicles provide a sleek appearance, exceptional comfort, and a price tag that can easily exceed the cost of a few paychecks.
However, when considering the depreciation of a luxury car, the big question arises: is the initial investment worth it?
Car buying can be fraught with financial risks, so understanding what you’re getting behind the wheel of whether or not you have access to Kelley Blue Book is crucial for the future.
Whether it’s a full-size luxury sedan or a stylish BMW 7 Series, owners of expensive cars know that ride quality can be exceptional, but the financial aspect is still very much a factor.
For those who are well-off, this may not be a concern, but for those hoping to recoup their investment, certain luxury cars can prove to be troublesome.
“The majority of the reasons these cars are on the list is because they lose almost 50% of their value within five years,” said Jamie Mitri, manager at Cumberland Auto Sales and Services.
“Jokingly, car manufacturers will tell you that the second you drive these cars off of the dealer lot, you are throwing money out of the car window.”
Range Rover
Although the idea of cruising around in a Range Rover might seem as glamorous as living like a mob boss, “the high maintenance and low-reliability rankings make [Range Rovers] less appealing to second-hand buyers,” explained Tomer.
The main factor contributing to the Range Rover’s depreciation is the frequent need for repairs, particularly to the engine, electrical systems, and suspension.
Given the vehicle’s advanced features, these repairs can be extremely expensive. “Parts and labor are incredibly expensive and difficult to find,” added Mitri.
While newer models show some improvement, the brand’s overall reputation continues to negatively impact resale prices for both new and used vehicles.
Land Rover is renowned for its meticulous, almost obsessive attention to detail, so it’s no surprise that the brand is going all-in on the development of the new Range Rover Electric.
Scheduled to be fully unveiled later this year and to hit showrooms shortly after, this luxury off-roader carries the significant responsibility of being the brand’s first-ever electric vehicle. It’s no wonder, then, that the development team is leaving no stone unturned in its journey to production.
We had the opportunity to join Thomas Müller, Head of Development at Jaguar Land Rover, and Matt Becker, the chassis expert responsible for the driving dynamics across the entire fleet, in Arjeplog, Sweden.
As the cold-weather testing phase wraps up, preparations for the next round of testing in the deserts of the Middle East are already underway.
While the concept of an electric Range Rover has been known for some time, there are still relatively few genuine luxury electric SUVs available, and even fewer that are true off-roaders. With this in mind, Müller and Becker were determined not to make any compromises in creating a luxury, off-road capable electric vehicle.
“First and foremost, this is a real Range Rover and only secondarily an electric car,” Müller explains. This approach is easily realized in practice, as electric powertrains are a perfect match for the luxury segment, offering smooth power delivery and an almost eerie silence.
The placement of the heavy battery in the floor of the vehicle works to the developers’ advantage, lowering the car’s center of gravity while enhancing its rigidity.
This leads to even greater composure and stability. Much like the Rolls-Royce Spectre, the Range Rover Electric creates the sensation of riding in the ultimate quiet limousine.
As a passenger, it feels like being cocooned in clouds, enveloped in comfort as we glide effortlessly through the Swedish winter landscape, seated on a plush leather throne.
Maserati Ghibli
For Seidel, the Maserati Ghibli is a prime example of a luxury car with one of the worst resale values. The concern appears to be well-founded.
Maserati “continually ranks at the bottom of reliability studies and has known problems with engine issues and fuel leak recalls,” noted Seidel.
Despite the inevitable depreciation in resale value, this didn’t stop her from purchasing her own Ghibli, drawn to its striking visual appeal.
“If you research a car and find out there are problems but love it anyway, at least you know what you’re getting into. He’s red, gorgeous, and lovely to drive low reliability and all.”
The 2024 Maserati Ghibli stands as the entry model in the brand’s sports-sedan lineup, but it’s far from a budget option.
With a choice of either the 424-hp twin-turbo V-6 or the 572-hp twin-turbo V-8, the Ghibli offers impressive acceleration, accompanied by a distinctive and melodic exhaust note.
When the road twists and turns, the Ghibli’s sport-tuned chassis delivers plenty of driving enjoyment. However, its strengths are limited, as the cabin disappoints with outdated technology and subpar fit and finish.
Those in search of a more refined interior should consider rivals like the Genesis G80 or Mercedes-Benz E-Class. However, the Ghibli brings an exotic appeal that its competitors lack, along with the unique sense of exclusivity that comes with owning a Maserati.
With the end of the V-8-powered Ghibli’s production on the horizon, Maserati is marking the occasion with a special Trofeo 334 Ultima trim. This version features unique styling elements that distinguish it from the V-6 models.
The V-6 Ghibli continues in the Modena trim, which for 2024 gains new 21-inch wheels, red-painted brake calipers, sport seats with red stitching, and standard features such as ventilated front seats, a Harman/Kardon stereo system, and black leather upholstery.
The Trofeo 334 Ultima comes equipped with the 572-hp twin-turbo V-8 and includes exclusive touches like special blue paint (Scià di Persia), carbon-fiber exterior trim, and custom 334 emblems throughout.
Although Maserati has not officially confirmed it, there is a strong possibility that 2024 will be the final year for the Ghibli as an entry-level sports sedan.
While the Ghibli name could make a comeback in the future, it does not seem to be part of the brand’s current revitalization strategy, which includes the MC20 sports car, a new-generation GranTurismo coupe, and the new Grecale SUV.
Tesla X, S
When it comes to purchasing and driving a pre-owned Tesla, it’s understandable that buyers may be concerned about the potential for an expensive battery failure in a used vehicle.
“Every day you own an electric car, the distance you can travel drops a few tenths of a percent,” explained Pyle. “You may have gotten 300 miles on a full charge when new; after 3 years, it is 270 miles.”
Additionally, technological advancements in the brand are similar to the constant updates seen with cell phones everyone wants the latest and greatest.
Pyle compared buying an older Tesla to purchasing a flip phone: the value is bound to decrease as the model becomes outdated.
It doesn’t help that pre-owned Teslas are now reportedly being sold at even lower prices due to increased competition from other EV manufacturers, a natural progression in the open market.
Audi A3, A4, A5, A6, S4, Q5
While some Audi models retain their value better than other luxury cars, Mitri pointed out that the resale value of the specific models listed above declines significantly over time due to the high cost of parts, repairs, and (ironically) warranties.
Pyle also noted that these cars “were priced too high from the get-go and often are sold over MSRP value. So it is not only a loss in car value, you lose the amount that you overpaid.”
Audi has become one of the most successful luxury brands today, skillfully using its minimalist design approach and the Quattro all-wheel-drive system to cultivate an image of modernity and innovation.
The brand’s lineup is filled with highly capable vehicles, many of which—like the A4 sedan and Q7 SUV—excel in virtually every area, sometimes to the point where they can feel a bit impersonal or clinical.
This critique also applies to the sportier, high-performance S-line and RS models, including the 444-hp RS5 Sportback four-door coupe and the R8 supercar. In addition to these, Audi also offers fully electric options, such as the Q4 e-tron SUV and the e-tron GT sports sedan.
BMW
“Having been in the used car resale and financing business for over 20 years, we learned very quickly which types of vehicles to stay away from,” explained Beneke. This insight is why he, Mitri, and Pyle all agree that when it comes to luxury cars, BMWs have some of the worst resale values.
BMWs are not only notorious for issues like oil leaks, faulty fuel pumps, and electrical component failures over time, but they also require parts and labor that are exceedingly expensive.
Due to these factors, pre-owned BMWs often struggle to attract buyers who are willing to pay for these high maintenance costs.
As a result, “they sit for sale too long, so car lots do not give them a good trade value knowing their funds are going to be tied up for a long while,” noted Pyle.
BMW, a renowned German luxury automaker, is famous for its performance-oriented vehicles, cutting-edge technology, and premium design.
The brand’s slogan, “The Ultimate Driving Machine,” underscores its commitment to delivering cars that are not just fast but also offer exceptional handling and driving pleasure.
Whether it’s the compact 2 Series, the iconic 3 Series sedan, or the powerful M models, BMW vehicles are known for their responsive steering, precise handling, and rear-wheel-drive platforms, though many models also offer all-wheel drive for added versatility.
The M (Motorsport) division creates high-performance variants like the M3, M4, and M5, which are equipped with powerful engines and sportier suspension setups for enhanced driving dynamics.
Furthermore, BMW has made strides in the electric vehicle market with its i series, including the i3, a compact city car, and the i8, a plug-in hybrid sports car. More recently, the BMW i4 sedan and iX SUV are pushing the boundaries of electric performance and luxury.
Inside, BMW cars boast luxurious interiors crafted from high-quality materials and feature ergonomic designs focused on both driver and passenger comfort.
High-end models like the 7 Series and 8 Series include premium features such as massaging seats, advanced driver-assistance technologies, and top-tier audio systems, providing an exceptional experience on the road.
BMW’s vehicle range spans a wide variety of models, from the compact 2 Series coupe to the full-sized 7 Series luxury sedan, as well as the versatile X series SUVs, including the X5 and X6.