When people shop for cars, factors like style, fuel efficiency, and safety usually take center stage. However, smart car buyers also think about depreciation—a crucial yet often overlooked element of vehicle ownership.
A car’s ability to retain value over time can significantly affect long-term financial outcomes. On average, new vehicles lose about 50% of their value within five years, though some models depreciate far less or much more than others.
In this guide, we’ll explore five cars that hold or even gain value over time, and five that lose value rapidly. Understanding these trends can save buyers thousands in resale losses.
5 Cars That Gain Value Over Time
1. Toyota Tacoma: The Investment Truck
The Toyota Tacoma has consistently ranked among the top performers for resale value. Known for its rugged build and off-road capabilities, it boasts a loyal customer base that drives demand in the used market.
Many Tacomas surpass 200,000 miles with ease, and still fetch high resale prices. It’s common for well-maintained models to retain 60–70% of their original value after five years.
Toyota’s strategy of limiting supply increases scarcity, which further strengthens resale value. With low ownership costs, excellent durability, and strong aftermarket support, the Tacoma stands out not only as a reliable truck but also as a smart investment.
2. Jeep Wrangler: Timeless Off-Road Appeal
The Jeep Wrangler is an icon in the automotive world, and its ability to retain value is almost as legendary as its off-road performance. Wranglers hold over 60% of their value after five years, making them one of the few SUVs to consistently resist steep depreciation.
Buyers are drawn to its rugged styling, straightforward mechanical design, and timeless appeal. Even decade-old models with high mileage continue to be in high demand.
Its unique combination of adventure-ready capability, everyday functionality, and strong brand loyalty fuels a thriving resale market. Whether you’re exploring backcountry trails or driving through city streets, the Wrangler is both a fun ride and a wise investment.
3. Porsche 911: The Sports Car Exception
In a segment notorious for rapid value loss, the Porsche 911 defies expectations. With a resale retention of nearly 60% after five years—and even appreciation in some rare editions—the 911 is a standout luxury sports car.
This performance icon combines timeless styling, excellent reliability, and everyday usability. Porsche’s consistent design language keeps older models desirable, while solid engineering means many 911s age gracefully.
It’s one of the few luxury vehicles that offers performance and practicality without punishing depreciation. If you want a thrilling ride that holds its financial ground, the 911 is a savvy pick among high-end sports cars.
4. Subaru Crosstrek: Practical and Profitable
The Subaru Crosstrek may be modest in appearance, but it’s a powerhouse when it comes to holding value. Retaining about 60% of its price after five years, this subcompact SUV combines reliability, fuel efficiency, and utility into one appealing package.
Subaru’s reputation for durability and standard all-wheel drive makes the Crosstrek a go-to for commuters and adventurers alike.
It’s affordable yet capable, striking a perfect balance for buyers who want dependable transportation without breaking the bank. Thanks to its strong resale value and low ownership costs, the Crosstrek is a practical and profitable choice in the competitive small SUV market.
5. Honda Civic: Small Car, Big Value
The Honda Civic has long been celebrated for its reliability, and that reputation pays off in resale value. After five years, many Civics still retain more than 55% of their original price.
With sporty styling, fuel efficiency, and a wide buyer base, the Civic remains in high demand. Its reputation for lasting well beyond 200,000 miles with minimal issues reassures used car shoppers.
Safety ratings and consistently strong performance in crash tests further enhance its appeal. Whether you’re buying your first car or looking for a reliable daily driver, the Civic proves that even compact cars can be wise investments.
5 Cars That Plummet Like a Rock
1. BMW 7 Series: Luxury Without Longevity
The BMW 7 Series may offer top-tier luxury and cutting-edge tech, but its resale value tells another story. After five years, this flagship sedan often loses up to 70% of its original price.
High maintenance costs and rapidly advancing technology make older models less appealing. Moreover, frequent design overhauls quickly date previous versions, and few buyers want to shoulder the repair bills associated with aging luxury vehicles.
The shrinking luxury sedan market doesn’t help either. While the 7 Series offers a lavish experience when new, it delivers one of the steepest depreciation curves in the automotive world.
2. Nissan Leaf: An EV Struggling to Evolve
The Nissan Leaf was an early electric vehicle success, but it has since become one of the fastest-depreciating cars. It can lose over 65% of its value in just five years. Limited range in earlier models, outdated battery technology, and intense competition from newer EVs like the Tesla Model 3 have eroded its market appeal.
Additionally, government incentives lowered the initial purchase price, which undercuts resale value further. While it’s an economical city car, its short range and slow tech evolution mean the used Leaf market is soft. Buyers focused on value retention should steer toward newer or more advanced EVs.
3. Chrysler 300: Outdated and Undervalued
The Chrysler 300 is a full-size sedan that has lost its luster—and its resale value. After five years, it typically depreciates by around 65%. Once praised for its spacious interior and bold styling, the 300 now feels outdated in both design and technology. The decline of the large sedan market further limits its appeal.
Reliability concerns and high insurance premiums compound its value drop. Without brand loyalty or standout features to support strong resale pricing, the 300 often languishes on used lots. For a car that looks commanding on the road, it unfortunately doesn’t command much on resale.
4. Chevrolet Impala: A Fading Classic
Once a favorite among families and fleets, the Chevrolet Impala has seen its resale value nosedive, often losing more than 65% after five years. Even before it was discontinued in 2020, consumer interest waned due to shifting preferences toward crossovers and SUVs.
The Impala failed to innovate and fell behind competitors in features and styling. While it remains comfortable and spacious, it doesn’t excite buyers or inspire confidence as a long-term investment.
Its fleet car legacy and lack of a loyal consumer base further diminish resale prospects. Despite its name recognition, the Impala is now a risky choice for value-conscious buyers.
5. Jaguar XF: Flashy but Flawed
The Jaguar XF offers eye-catching design and engaging performance, yet it loses over 70% of its value within five years. The luxury sedan’s downfall lies in inconsistent reliability, costly repairs, and limited dealer support.
German rivals like BMW and Mercedes-Benz overshadow Jaguar in both prestige and practical ownership experience. Buyers tend to avoid used XFs due to concerns about maintenance and parts availability.
While it delivers a premium experience when new, its weak resale value makes it a poor long-term investment. Unless you’re getting an XF at a deep discount, its depreciation curve makes it a tough sell in the used market.
Depreciation is one of the biggest hidden costs of car ownership. Choosing a vehicle that holds value can save thousands over time, while picking one with steep depreciation can lead to financial regret.
Vehicles like the Toyota Tacoma, Porsche 911, and Honda Civic demonstrate how strong brand reputations, durability, and smart engineering contribute to long-term value.
On the other hand, cars like the BMW 7 Series or Jaguar XF remind us that flash doesn’t always translate to financial wisdom. Whether you’re buying new or used, understanding depreciation trends is key to making a car purchase that stands the test of time.
Also Read: 5 Cars With Fake Reliability Ratings and 5 That Deserve the Hype
