When buying a new car, the majority of shoppers are after its purchase price, fuel economy and amenities. However, one of the most important (and frequently ignored) elements is resale value. Car companies and models with some of the best resale value are more than just reliable drives. They're smart long-term investments, and investing in a car that holds onto its value can make a huge difference when it comes time to sell or trade.
In this blog, we will discuss the top high-value vehicles with the best resale value in 2025 and why these top brands outperform their competitors regarding car depreciation.
Before we get into the list of car brands with the best resale value, we should talk about what car depreciation is. Depreciation is the term for how the value of a vehicle drops over time. A new car generally loses about 20-30% of its value within the first year of ownership, with a slow but steady drop off in value after that. There are many factors that can affect a car's depreciation, including brand reputation, reliability, market demand, and market trends.
Some brands and models hold their value better than others. These vehicles are smart purchases because the ride slower depreciation costs less in the long run.
Here are a few of the best resale value cars in 2025.
Toyota is well known as the leader when it comes to building high-value vehicles, and the brand retains its sale value way past purchase in 2025 as well. Toyota vehicles are also known for their reliability, durability and great customer service, and so typical vehicles retain a higher percentage of the original price several years into service. The Toyota Tacoma, Tundra and 4Runner always rank as some of the cars with the best resale value.
One of the reasons Toyota has high resale value is its dedication to manufacturing fuel-efficient and reliable vehicles. Furthermore, the Toyota line also incorporates hybrid models like the Prius, making for a progressive investment for environmentally conscious customers and cementing the company’s place as an automobile leader.
Why Toyota?
Honda is another Japanese carmaker famous for producing cars with lasting value. Cars such as the Honda Civic, Accord, and CR-V have been popular with customers for decades; they deliver the trifecta of affordability, performance, and fuel economy. Honda is still offering great purchases for people in 2025 looking for minimal depreciation car ownership.
Honda’s popularity across new and used cars means that it can keep a high value. Moreover, Honda is also known for making great value vehicles that resonate with the masses, right from first-time car buyers to families.
Why Honda?
For 2025, Subaru takes the iconic crown for resale value for its all-wheel-drive models like the Forester, Outback, and Crosstrek. Subaru’s commitment to building rugged, adventure-ready vehicles has earned the brand a devoted following, making its cars hold onto more of their value as the years go by.
Why Subaru?
Jeep models, particularly the Wrangler and Gladiator, have what could be described as a cult following, and that's reflected in their best resale value ranking. One of the best performing cars in terms of car depreciation is the Jeep Wrangler, which is an iconic model and still one of the best-selling cars within the SUV content.
All Jeep models are known not only for their off-roading capabilities but also for their adaptability and distinctive design. This is also part of what makes Jeep vehicles very desirable as used cars, resulting in depreciation at a slower rate than other brands.
Why Jeep?
Tesla already commands the domestic market for electric vehicles (EV) for its place in the EV evolution. In the electric vehicle segment, the most popular cars are still Tesla's Model 3 and Model Y, and in 2025 those models have the best resale value, according to Kelley Blue Book. Tesla’s technology, performance, and green appeal all give the brand an advantage when it comes to holding value over the years.
Tesla's brand recognition and growing demand for electric vehicles contribute to its strong resale value. The fact that Tesla keeps its cars updated via over-the-air software means you always feel like you have the latest and greatest technology, even after many years of ownership.
Why Tesla?
Pioneering firm in EV-cutting technology
Porsche will emerge as one of the best resale value cars for luxury buyers in 2025. Vehicles such as the Porsche 911 and Cayenne are now synonymous with performance and prestige. While a Porsche may cost more to buy, it retains a lot of its value on the secondhand market.
Porsche's classic designs, unrivaled engineering, and solidified brand personality contribute to the high resale value of its autos. Porsche owners can look forward to less depreciation over time, making them the perfect investment due to performance and residual value.
Why Porsche?
Ford remains a dependable option for car buyers looking for high-value cars that don't depreciate. One of the most commercialized trucks in the U.S., the Ford F-150 has always been among the cars that have earned the best resale value in their segment. Ford trucks and SUVs such as the Bronco are known for being tough and reliable, resulting in excellent resale value in 2025.
With its dedication to innovative production and reliable vehicles, Ford has developed a loyal base in the used car market. Ford's vehicles are smart buys for family and work alike, smart investments for buyers looking to minimize car depreciation.
Why Ford?
Aside from Toyota, another brand known best resale value cars is Lexus - Toyota's luxury division. The RX and GX, to name a few, are among the reliable offerings of Toyota who is best known for its luxury and performance high end mass brand. Lexus vehicles still command high resale values in 2025, making their vehicles an ideal choice for luxury car buyers looking to maximize long-term value.
Lexus vehicles also have a reputation for smooth styling and high-tech features, which are popular with luxury buyers seeking high-value vehicles that hold their value well.
Why Lexus?
If you're buying a car with the best resale value, you're making a good investment that will pay off down the line. One of the biggest factors in making a car a good choice in terms of economy is the ability to recoup a significant amount of the money paid for the car when the time comes to sell or trade in the vehicle.
This is where high resale value cars come in, and help reduce the cost of car depreciation. This is especially true if you enjoy frequently upgrading vehicles or are concerned about your long-term financial well-being.
High-value vehicles are also easier to move in the used car market. They appeal to potential buyers due to their perceived reputation for reliability, durability, and performance. So, one does not only spend less in the long run on a car with good resale value, but one also has peace of mind.
Discovering the best resale value cars helps you make an intelligent financial decision that'll save you thousands throughout the life of your vehicle. Brands including Toyota, Honda, Subaru and Tesla consistently hold their value, so whoever the buyer is, it's a wise investment.
By selecting one of these high-value vehicles, you are not simply purchasing a car but rather making a purchase that will keep it right for you for years to come and minimize car depreciation. At the same time, it will retain a higher return when it is time to resell or trade it in. Remember to do your research and pick wisely so that your next automobile purchase is pleasurable and profitable!
This content was created by AI