Top 12 Cars That Depreciate The Least

Car depreciation is of vital importance whether you're buying or leasing a new auto. If you're buying, it'll let you know your chances of re-selling the car at a good price. If you're leasing, you'll be able to count with a higher residual value and, as a result, pay lower monthly payments.

Finding a new car that depreciates little should be one of your priorities. That's why the BuyingAdvice Team has put together a list of the top 12 cars that keep most of their original value after five years of ownership and with an average of 15,000 miles per year.



Mini CooperMini Cooper

Vehicle Type: Compact
MSRP: $17,450
Residual Value: 62%


Volkswagen New BeetleVolkswagen New Beetle

Vehicle Type: Family Coupe
MSRP: $17,180
Residual Value: 60%


Acura RSXAcura RSX

Vehicle Type: Sports Coupe
MSRP: $71,800
Residual Value: 60%


BMW 650BMW 650

Vehicle Type: Luxury Sport Coupe
MSRP: $20,325
Residual Value: 60%


Mercedes Benz E ClassMercedes Benz E Class

Vehicle Type: Luxury Sedan
MSRP: $50,050
Residual Value: 44%


Lexus SC 230Lexus SC 230

Vehicle Type: Luxury Convertible
MSRP: $65,355
Residual Value: 38%


Honda Accord HybridHonda Accord Hybrid

Vehicle Type: Hybrid
MSRP: $30,990
Residual Value: 42%


Honda OdysseyHonda Odyssey

Vehicle Type: Minivan
MSRP: $25,345
Residual Value: 55%


Jeep WranglerJeep Wrangler

Vehicle Type: Compact SUV
MSRP: $18,390
Residual Value: 54%


Toyota SequoiaToyota Sequoia

Vehicle Type: Full Size SUV
MSRP: $32,820
Residual Value: 56%


Toyota TacomaToyota Tacoma

Vehicle Type: Compact Truck
MSRP: $13,980
Residual Value: 61%


Toyota TundraToyota Tundra

Vehicle Type: Full Size Truck
MSRP: $16,155
Residual Value: 43%


If you want to find out how much another vehicle not included in this list depreciates, the Automotive Lease Guide ALG has been a major source for residual values in the US and Canada for over thirty years. You can contact ALG's Data Services Department at 805-563-0777 ext.105 to become a member, access ALG's residual guidebook, and calculate a specific car's residual value. Memberships start from $132 a year. To view a free overall depreciation ranking online, go to alg.com/deprratings.aspx.

We suggest buying a new car that depreciates less and, as a result, has a higher residual value.

However, if the car you need or any similar model has a low residual value, consider buying it used but still in good conditions, such as in the case of certified pre-owned cars. That way at least you'll avoid the huge chunk of depreciation all new cars suffer the minute you drive them off the lot.


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