When it comes to buying a car, few factors influence value perception more than mileage. The conventional wisdom has long been that a high-mileage car equates to high risk.
For many people, the 100,000-mile mark has been seen as the automotive equivalent of a ticking time bomb—a signal that mechanical failures, breakdowns, and costly repairs are just around the corner.
As a result, many consumers shy away from used vehicles with significant mileage, fearing they’ll inherit someone else’s problems. But that view, while not completely unfounded, is increasingly outdated. In today’s automotive landscape, some vehicles defy the old rules, proving that mileage isn’t always the defining factor in a car’s value.
Mileage still matters, of course. It reflects how much a vehicle has been used and provides a rough gauge of wear and tear. But what matters just as much—if not more—is how a car was built, how well it was maintained, and how it performs over time. Some vehicles are simply engineered to last.
They’re made with higher-quality materials, better components, and more thoughtful design, all of which enable them to withstand hundreds of thousands of miles without falling apart. These cars build reputations as indestructible workhorses or reliable companions and, as a result, maintain high resale value even after many years on the road.
On the other hand, some vehicles seem to hemorrhage value the second they’re driven off the dealership lot. Despite premium features, stylish designs, or luxury badges, some cars depreciate faster than their competitors, and often more than their performance or features would suggest.
Why does this happen? Sometimes it’s due to reliability concerns, expensive maintenance, or brand reputation. In other cases, it’s because the car was overhyped and overpriced to begin with, or it exists in a shrinking segment of the market. Regardless of the reason, these vehicles become cautionary tales in automotive ownership.
Understanding depreciation isn’t just for car enthusiasts or finance geeks—it’s a crucial part of making a smart buying decision. Whether you’re shopping for a new car, thinking about trading in your current ride, or browsing the used market, knowing which cars hold value and which ones drop like a stone can save you thousands of dollars in the long run.
It’s not just about sticker price; it’s about total cost of ownership, and resale or trade-in value plays a major role in that equation.
This article takes a deep dive into ten standout vehicles—five that are renowned for retaining value even with high mileage, and five that are notorious for depreciating quickly. The list is based not just on brand perception, but real-world performance, maintenance trends, and used car market dynamics.
You’ll find pickups and sedans, imports and domestics, luxury models and practical commuters—all with different reasons behind their market trajectories. Each section includes an in-depth analysis of the factors that influence their value, from mechanical reliability and engineering quality to buyer perception and long-term costs.
It’s important to note that no car is inherently “bad” simply because it depreciates quickly. Some cars are purchased for short-term use, unique experiences, or specific lifestyle needs. Likewise, high-mileage vehicles aren’t automatically better just because they hold value; maintenance history, driving conditions, and owner behavior still matter.
But by understanding these patterns, you can align your purchase with your long-term goals—whether it’s minimizing cost, maximizing reliability, or maintaining equity in your vehicle over time.
So whether you’re a budget-minded commuter, a weekend adventurer, or someone simply trying to avoid a financial pitfall, this guide will give you a clearer picture of what to expect. Let’s take a closer look at the vehicles that stand the test of time—and those that falter sooner than they should.
Also read: 5 Budget Cars That Feel Solid and 5 That Fall Apart Fast
5 Cars That Hold Value Even With High Miles
1. Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma is a legend in the midsize truck category, and that status translates directly into resale strength, even for trucks with high mileage. One of the key elements in Tacoma’s long-term value is its heritage of reliability.
Toyota has spent decades building a reputation for making durable, low-maintenance vehicles, and the Tacoma exemplifies that engineering philosophy.
When consumers see a Tacoma with 150,000 miles on the clock, they don’t flinch. In fact, for many buyers, that’s seen as just getting broken in. There are countless well-documented cases of Tacomas running well beyond 300,000 miles with minimal mechanical issues, and that kind of endurance creates strong consumer trust.
Another crucial factor is the truck’s straightforward construction. Unlike many newer vehicles that are packed with complex infotainment systems, over-engineered turbochargers, and sensitive electronic components, the Tacoma is relatively simple by comparison. That simplicity pays dividends in the used market.
Mechanics are familiar with the platform, replacement parts are widely available, and repairs are generally straightforward, meaning owners aren’t stuck with massive repair bills when something does go wrong.
In addition, Toyota has ensured that the drivetrain and suspension are built with a “work truck” mentality in mind, which means heavy-duty usage over the years doesn’t dramatically degrade performance.
From a lifestyle standpoint, the Tacoma enjoys a cult-like following among outdoor enthusiasts, tradespeople, and off-roaders. Its smaller size makes it more maneuverable than full-size pickups, yet it still offers serious hauling and towing capabilities. Because of this unique versatility, the demand for used Tacomas remains consistently high, regardless of mileage.
Buyers know that they’re getting a vehicle that can handle mountain trails, weekend camping trips, and daily commutes with equal ease. This lifestyle alignment is a huge reason why older models fetch such strong prices on the used market.
Perhaps most importantly, Tacomas depreciate very slowly. According to various used vehicle studies and resale tracking indexes, a Tacoma retains more of its value over five and ten years than almost any other truck on the road. Even during periods when used vehicle prices drop across the board, Tacomas buck the trend by maintaining demand.
It’s not uncommon to see 10-year-old Tacomas selling for more than half of their original MSRP—a rare feat in any vehicle segment. For people looking to invest in a vehicle that won’t become a financial sinkhole after 100,000 miles, the Toyota Tacoma stands head and shoulders above the competition.
2. Honda Accord
The Honda Accord has long been considered a benchmark for midsize sedans, and that reputation has been earned over decades of consistent performance, engineering quality, and smart design. What truly distinguishes the Accord in the used car market is its resilience at high mileage.
Owners of Accords frequently report minimal issues even after surpassing the 200,000-mile mark, and the vehicle’s history of reliability translates into high demand on the resale market.
Buyers gravitate toward the Accord not just because of its nameplate, but because of the car’s demonstrated ability to age gracefully without succumbing to chronic mechanical issues.
A large part of the Accord’s longevity comes from its excellent powertrains. Honda’s naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engines, particularly those from the K-series family, are renowned for their balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and bulletproof reliability. Even the V6 models have earned praise for their smooth power delivery and long-term durability.
Furthermore, Honda’s approach to building transmissions—especially the later-model CVTs and 10-speed automatics—has improved significantly, addressing one of the brand’s few historical pain points. This mechanical dependability encourages used buyers to seek out Accords even with six-digit mileage figures, knowing they’re unlikely to encounter major surprises.
Another key selling point for the Accord is its broad appeal. It’s a car that fits seamlessly into various lifestyles: commuters appreciate its comfort and fuel efficiency, families value its space and safety ratings, and enthusiasts respect its driving dynamics, especially in sport trims.
Because of this wide-reaching relevance, the Accord has one of the most active and reliable resale markets in the sedan segment. Many buyers looking at high-mileage Accords are returning customers who’ve owned one before and know firsthand that these cars deliver on their promise. That brand loyalty reinforces the model’s reputation and keeps prices strong.
Finally, the Accord benefits from sensible design choices that support long-term ownership. Interior materials are of surprisingly high quality, with soft-touch plastics, supportive seating, and solid build construction that withstands years of daily use.
The ergonomics are driver-focused without being overly complicated, and the electronics, while not flashy, are intuitive and long-lasting.
This practicality, combined with affordability and legendary reliability, allows the Accord to age much more gracefully than its peers. When many sedans start to feel “tired” after 100,000 miles, the Honda Accord simply keeps going, offering a rare blend of endurance, usability, and value retention that few other sedans can match.
3. Toyota 4Runner
The Toyota 4Runner is a body-on-frame SUV that’s built more like a truck than a crossover, and that’s exactly why it holds its value so well. Known for its rugged reliability and off-road prowess, the 4Runner has become one of the most sought-after SUVs in the used car market, particularly among those who value durability and function over luxury features.
What’s remarkable is how well these vehicles retain their resale value even after passing 150,000 or 200,000 miles. For buyers, a high-mileage 4Runner is still seen as a smart investment, not a gamble.
One of the most compelling features of the 4Runner is its powertrain. The 4.0-liter V6 engine has been the heart of the 4Runner for years, and it’s known for being practically indestructible when maintained properly. It isn’t the most fuel-efficient engine, but what it lacks in efficiency, it makes up for in raw dependability.
Paired with a traditional 5-speed automatic transmission and a true 4WD system, the 4Runner is capable of tackling everything from city roads to remote trails—and doing it for decades. Owners routinely share stories of their 4Runners reaching 300,000 miles with few issues beyond routine maintenance.
Beyond the powertrain, Toyota’s decision to keep the 4Runner relatively unchanged over the years has played a big role in its sustained value. While competitors constantly redesign their SUVs with trendy features and untested tech, Toyota has stayed the course with a tried-and-true platform.
This means that buyers know exactly what they’re getting: a reliable, proven, and purpose-built SUV that doesn’t try to be anything it’s not. In a market oversaturated with crossovers masquerading as SUVs, the 4Runner stands out as an authentic utility vehicle that can take a beating and keep running.
The lifestyle appeal is equally important. 4Runners are beloved by adventurers, campers, and off-roaders. Their aftermarket support is extensive, allowing owners to easily modify and customize for overlanding, rock crawling, or long-distance expeditions.
This subculture has created a secondary demand for used 4Runners that further inflates resale value. Even with cosmetic wear, these vehicles fetch high prices due to their mechanical integrity and desirability. For people who want an SUV that isn’t afraid of a hard life—and can maintain its value through it all—the Toyota 4Runner is as close to a sure bet as you can get.
4. Lexus GX 460
The Lexus GX 460 may fly under the radar compared to flashier SUVs, but in the high-mileage resale market, it’s a hidden gem. Underneath its luxurious interior and refined styling lies a platform that’s nearly identical to the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, which is used around the world in harsh environments.
This rugged heritage, combined with Lexus-level build quality and luxury, makes the GX 460 one of the most underrated yet high-value SUVs on the used market. Even models with well over 150,000 miles often command strong prices, reflecting buyer confidence in their long-term durability.
Mechanically, the GX 460 is built like a tank. It features a 4.6-liter V8 engine that’s smooth, powerful, and notoriously long-lived. Paired with a robust 6-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system, the GX is capable of serious off-road work, though most owners will never need to test its limits.
That said, the vehicle is frequently used by overlanders and backcountry explorers who value both reliability and comfort. Its traditional body-on-frame construction also means it handles abuse better than most unibody SUVs, making it one of the few luxury vehicles that ages gracefully even in demanding use cases.
Another key advantage is the interior quality. Lexus has a reputation for building cabins that feel premium even after a decade of use, and the GX 460 is no exception. High-quality materials, low NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness), and a design that prioritizes comfort over trendiness give the GX a timeless feel.
Used buyers find these features highly attractive, especially when compared to other high-mileage luxury SUVs that often suffer from worn-out electronics, creaky panels, or sagging seats. The GX, by contrast, continues to feel solid and dependable far beyond 100,000 miles.
Additionally, the Lexus badge carries weight in the resale market. Buyers equate it with quality, dependability, and lower long-term ownership costs—attributes that make a huge difference in resale pricing. While German luxury SUVs tend to drop sharply after the warranty period, the GX 460 holds firm, thanks to its low incidence of major repairs and reasonable service costs.
For anyone looking to enter the luxury SUV market without suffering from steep depreciation, the Lexus GX 460 proves that you can have both refinement and reliability, even long after the odometer has rolled past six digits.
5. Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback occupies a unique space in the automotive world. Part wagon, part crossover, part light-duty SUV, the Outback is beloved by a wide range of owners—from urban commuters to wilderness adventurers.
Its ability to hold value over time, even with high mileage, stems from a combination of rugged mechanical engineering, loyal fan base, and market demand. The Outback is frequently seen with well over 200,000 miles and still going strong, making it a top pick for value-conscious used car buyers.
One of the primary factors behind the Outback’s long-lasting appeal is Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. Unlike many AWD systems that only activate under certain conditions, Subaru’s system is full-time and designed from the ground up to provide stable handling and traction.
This makes the Outback ideal for harsh weather conditions, light off-roading, and long-distance driving across varied terrain. That level of capability, when combined with a comfortable ride and efficient boxer engine, contributes to the Outback’s status as a dependable, go-anywhere vehicle.
Another strength is its practicality. With generous cargo space, good ground clearance, and a low step-in height, the Outback is designed for usability. Families appreciate its safety features and crash test ratings, while solo travelers and outdoor enthusiasts value its versatility.
That wide-ranging utility means that there’s always a market for used Outbacks, even with high miles. Some buyers specifically look for older models with proven track records because they’re seen as more “broken in” and less likely to have early manufacturing defects.
Finally, the Subaru brand carries a level of loyalty that few others can match. Outback owners tend to stick with the brand, and used buyers often come from recommendations or previous positive experiences. This loyalty boosts demand in the secondhand market.
Additionally, newer Subarus have improved in terms of oil consumption issues and head gasket reliability—two of the brand’s past weak points. When buyers see a 150,000-mile Outback today, they don’t see risk—they see a proven companion that still has many years left. For those who want adventure, comfort, and resale strength, the Subaru Outback delivers in full.
5 Cars That Instantly Drop in Value
1. BMW 7 Series
The BMW 7 Series is often considered the pinnacle of Bavarian engineering, featuring cutting-edge technology, sophisticated styling, and powerful engines. Yet, when it comes to resale value, this luxury flagship performs dismally. Almost immediately after purchase, the 7 Series experiences one of the steepest depreciation curves in the luxury market.
It’s not unusual to see a three-year-old 7 Series selling for less than half its original price. This depreciation is especially shocking when you consider that these vehicles often start in the six-figure price range when new. The primary reason? Ownership costs and long-term reliability concerns.
Luxury sedans like the 7 Series are packed with complex systems—air suspension, advanced infotainment suites, driver assistance features, and highly tuned engines—that often require expensive maintenance as they age. For example, something as routine as replacing an air strut or a fuel injector could run into the thousands.
Once out of warranty, the maintenance burden shifts to the owner, and that’s when the car’s resale market dries up. Even enthusiasts or bargain-hunters who admire the performance or prestige tend to steer clear, knowing full well the kind of financial pitfalls these cars can bring in the long run.
Compounding this issue is the image the 7 Series cultivates: it’s a car for executives, diplomats, and high-net-worth individuals. As a result, potential second-hand buyers are often wary of the high mileage or heavy usage these vehicles may have endured in their earlier life, frequent high-speed driving, constant short trips, or even prolonged idling during chauffeuring duties.
Buyers often perceive older models as ticking time bombs, full of potential repair liabilities. They’d rather invest in a lower-tier luxury sedan or a non-premium vehicle with more dependable ownership costs.
Another challenge is that the market for used large luxury sedans is relatively small. While SUVs and crossovers are in high demand, full-size sedans have lost much of their appeal, especially among younger buyers. This lack of demand results in a sharp fall in resale value, even when the car is in good mechanical condition.
The BMW 7 Series may dazzle on the showroom floor, but it quickly becomes a financial liability in the used market. It’s a car best leased or purchased by those who can absorb the heavy depreciation, rather than someone expecting to recoup value down the road.
2. Maserati Ghibli
The Maserati Ghibli may boast Italian style, exotic flair, and a prestigious badge, but when it comes to holding value, it performs worse than many mass-market sedans. As a luxury car that aims to offer an alternative to German brands like BMW and Mercedes, the Ghibli enters the market with high expectations and an equally high price tag.
However, its rapid depreciation becomes evident the moment it’s driven off the dealership lot. A two-year-old Ghibli often loses 40–50% of its original value, putting it in the same category as far more pedestrian vehicles when it comes to used pricing.
Part of the problem lies in Maserati’s limited reputation for reliability. While the brand has worked to modernize its offerings and expand into new segments, its vehicles still suffer from perceptions of inconsistency, high maintenance costs, and limited dealer support.
For instance, electronic glitches, sensor failures, and issues with infotainment systems are frequently cited by owners. These problems, while not always catastrophic, diminish confidence in the brand’s long-term durability. As a result, used buyers are hesitant, pushing resale prices lower to compensate for the perceived risk of ownership.
Another critical factor is Ghibli’s mechanical underpinnings. Despite its luxury marketing, many components—including the infotainment system and some interior parts—are shared with Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge products due to Maserati’s ties to the former Fiat-Chrysler conglomerate.
While this helps with parts availability, it also damages the vehicle’s luxury credentials. Buyers expecting a bespoke Italian experience are often disappointed when they realize the infotainment system in their $70,000 Ghibli is nearly identical to that in a Dodge Charger. That dissonance negatively impacts both the new car’s image and the used market’s perception of value.
Furthermore, the Ghibli competes in a segment filled with fiercely reliable alternatives, such as the Lexus GS, Audi A6, and Mercedes E-Class. These competitors not only offer more brand trust but also stronger dealership networks and more reasonable long-term maintenance plans.
With a shrinking luxury sedan market and little to differentiate the Ghibli beyond its styling and engine sound, used buyers tend to avoid it. Consequently, even relatively low-mileage Ghiblis often sell for a fraction of their new price, making them one of the fastest-depreciating cars in their segment.
3. Nissan Leaf
The Nissan Leaf holds the distinction of being one of the earliest mass-market electric vehicles (EVs), which earned it praise and admiration during its initial release. However, in terms of depreciation, the Leaf fares poorly, often shockingly so.
A new Leaf can lose up to 60% of its value within the first five years, far faster than its competitors like the Tesla Model 3 or even the Chevrolet Bolt. Despite its affordability and practicality, several factors contribute to its steep drop in resale value, particularly related to its battery technology, range limitations, and rapid evolution in the EV market.
One of the Leaf’s primary weaknesses lies in its early battery design. Unlike many EVs that use active thermal management systems to keep battery temperature regulated, the Leaf’s air-cooled batteries are more vulnerable to degradation, particularly in hot climates.
This results in reduced range over time, which significantly impacts its appeal on the used market. Buyers are wary of purchasing a Leaf that once had a 100-mile range but now can barely travel 70 on a full charge. Unlike gasoline cars, where powertrains can be tuned or rebuilt, EVs are fundamentally judged on battery health, which diminishes over time and can be expensive to restore.
Adding to the problem is the rapid advancement in EV technology overall. When the Leaf first came out, it offered a competitive range and features. But within just a few years, newer models from other manufacturers began offering superior range, faster charging, and better overall efficiency.
This technological leap made earlier Leafs feel obsolete faster than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles typically age. In other words, the used Leaf doesn’t just feel “old”; it feels technologically outdated, and that hurts its resale potential.
Another factor is that government incentives often distort the true value of EVs. When buyers receive federal or state tax credits, they are less concerned about resale because their initial out-of-pocket cost is lower. However, in the secondhand market, those subsidies don’t apply, making it difficult to justify higher used prices.
As a result, Leafs that originally sold for $30,000 or more often end up on used car lots for less than $10,000 within a few years, even with low mileage. Despite its pioneering role, the Leaf is a textbook example of how early EV depreciation can be both swift and severe.
4. Jaguar XF
The Jaguar XF is often lauded for its elegant design, plush interiors, and refined driving experience. It competes directly with the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E-Class, and Audi A6, offering a distinctly British flavor in a very German-dominated segment.
Unfortunately, despite its aesthetic and performance appeal, the XF is notorious for tanking in value almost immediately after purchase. This is largely due to a combination of reliability concerns, limited brand perception in the U.S., and a small used-buyer market.
Reliability is one of the biggest contributors to the XF’s poor resale performance. Jaguar’s history of quality control issues hasn’t been forgotten by consumers. While recent models have improved, the lingering perception of poor dependability discourages buyers from gambling on a used Jaguar, especially one that’s out of warranty.
Electrical gremlins, infotainment problems, and transmission issues have plagued the XF in earlier model years, creating a reputation that the brand is still trying to shake. For many, the idea of owning a Jaguar is exciting, but the reality of upkeep and repairs is far less glamorous.
Then there’s the issue of dealership and service network scarcity. In the U.S., especially, Jaguar has a much smaller footprint than its German counterparts. This makes service inconvenient for many potential buyers and fuels concern over parts availability and repair costs.
Even when buyers love the driving dynamics or interior luxury of a Jaguar XF, the prospect of dealing with an under-supported brand in the secondhand market is often enough to steer them elsewhere. That fear translates directly into suppressed demand and, therefore, lower resale values.
Finally, the luxury sedan market as a whole has been contracting. SUVs and crossovers have stolen much of the limelight, especially in the premium space. With fewer people shopping for traditional sedans—and even fewer looking for used British sedans—the XF simply lacks the market pressure to maintain strong resale prices.
This results in an unfortunate paradox: a car that looks expensive, drives well, and feels luxurious, but sells for shockingly little just a few years after rolling off the lot. If you’re buying new and concerned about long-term value, the Jaguar XF should be approached with caution.
5. Chrysler 300
The Chrysler 300 is a full-size American sedan that’s undeniably bold in its styling and offers a comfortable ride, especially with its available HEMI V8 engine. However, despite these strengths, the 300 suffers from one of the sharpest depreciation curves in the domestic market.
The car’s large size, fleet history, and dated platform all contribute to its inability to retain value, particularly once it leaves the showroom. It may look like a premium vehicle, but its resale trajectory tells a very different story.
A significant contributor to the Chrysler 300’s depreciation is its reputation as a rental fleet staple. For years, the 300 has been a favorite among rental agencies due to its size, cost-effectiveness, and low acquisition cost from Chrysler.
This mass deployment into rental fleets floods the used market with devalued models, dragging down the perceived worth of even well-maintained privately owned examples. When buyers see a 300 on the used lot, it often carries the stigma of a “former rental,” which translates to harder driving and minimal care, both major red flags for resale pricing.
Another issue is its aging platform. The current generation 300 has remained largely unchanged since 2011, making it one of the oldest vehicles still being sold new.
While some appreciate the continuity and muscle-car charm, many buyers see it as outdated, especially compared to more modern competitors offering better infotainment systems, fuel economy, and safety features. The lack of innovation makes the car feel stale, which undermines its long-term appeal and pushes resale prices lower as buyers gravitate toward more current options.
Additionally, the shift in consumer preference toward crossovers and SUVs has dealt a heavy blow to full-size sedans like the 300. Even though it offers rear-wheel drive and optional V8 performance features rare in its class, those traits no longer command the loyalty they once did.
As the sedan market shrinks, so too does the demand for vehicles like the Chrysler 300, especially on the used market. That combination of limited demand, fleet saturation, and an aging design makes it a classic example of a car that drops like a rock in value, even when its mileage is relatively low.
Also read: 5 Cars With Durable Interiors and 5 That Fall Apart Inside
In a marketplace where car ownership is both a practical necessity and a significant financial investment, understanding how a vehicle holds or loses value is more critical than ever. The cars we choose to buy not only affect our day-to-day lives, but also have a profound impact on our long-term budgets.
A vehicle that depreciates rapidly can turn a good deal into a regrettable expense within just a few years, while one that holds its value can serve as a reliable asset, even with high mileage. As we’ve seen, some cars are engineered and marketed in ways that help them retain value, while others, despite their style or branding, lose it faster than expected.
The five vehicles that hold value even with high miles—Toyota Tacoma, Honda Accord, Toyota 4Runner, Lexus GX 460, and Subaru Outback—are strong examples of automotive consistency. They share several key traits: outstanding mechanical reliability, a reputation for durability, widespread brand loyalty, and practical design.
These vehicles don’t necessarily chase the latest tech trends or reinvent themselves with each new generation. Instead, they focus on delivering what matters most to long-term owners—dependability, ease of maintenance, and consistent performance. Buyers flock to these models in the used market because they represent a lower-risk investment, especially when compared to less-proven alternatives.
What’s interesting is that high mileage, for these vehicles, isn’t viewed as a red flag but rather as proof of capability. People who purchase high-mileage Tacomas or 4Runners know what they’re getting: a proven machine that can handle more.
Similarly, a 150,000-mile Honda Accord is often more desirable than a lesser brand with half the miles. That’s the power of trust and reputation in automotive resale value. These cars demonstrate that quality engineering and thoughtful design can overcome the wear and tear of time.
In contrast, the five vehicles that rapidly lose value—BMW 7 Series, Maserati Ghibli, Nissan Leaf, Jaguar XF, and Chrysler 300—highlight the risks of buying based on luxury appeal, branding, or trendiness alone. These cars are often more expensive to maintain, have niche markets, or suffer from questionable long-term reliability.
While they may look impressive or offer exciting features up front, the cost of ownership combined with rapid depreciation makes them financially hazardous for most used car buyers. Even at low mileage, these vehicles can be hard to resell, often needing steep price cuts to attract attention in the secondary market.
In the case of luxury sedans like the BMW 7 Series or Jaguar XF, depreciation is accelerated by changing consumer preferences. The shift toward SUVs and crossovers has reduced demand for these traditional sedans, regardless of how luxurious or powerful they are.
Vehicles like the Maserati Ghibli suffer from a combination of brand unfamiliarity and maintenance concerns, while others, like the Nissan Leaf, fall victim to rapidly evolving technology that makes early EV models feel outdated before they’ve even aged mechanically.
However, all of this isn’t to say that you should never buy a depreciating car. Sometimes, the best value can be found in a car that’s already done the bulk of its depreciating, provided you go in with your eyes open and a solid understanding of its maintenance needs.
Likewise, buying a high-value-retention vehicle isn’t a guarantee of savings if it’s overpriced to begin with. The real takeaway here is the importance of research, awareness, and alignment with your personal use case and financial goals.
At the end of the day, a car is more than a product—it’s a partner in your daily life. Whether you want a reliable long-hauler that keeps its worth or you’re drawn to a luxurious nameplate that depreciates quickly, understanding the resale landscape gives you control over your investment. By choosing wisely, you not only improve your driving experience but also protect your wallet for years to come.
