Best Resale Value Cars (2025 Guide) 3 weeks ago

When investing in a car, always consider the resale value. You will be amazed to know the value it holds. Some vehicles are better than others in value, which gives you great value for money.

If you have been eyeing a favorite SUV, truck, sedan or luxury car, this guide will help you make an informed decision by giving you insight into the best resale value cars of 2025.

Key Takeaways

• Certain cars like SUVs, trucks, and sedans are better at retaining their value, making them great for resale.
• The Honda CR-V, Toyota Tacoma, and Honda Accord are standout options for their categories.
• Resale value depends on factors like brand reputation, maintenance, and demand in the used car market.
• Sherpa Auto Transport simplifies shipping for your new or used car purchase with reliable services.
• Avoid depreciation traps by researching vehicle history and choosing models with strong reviews.

In This Guide:

• Best Resale Value Cars (2025 Guide)
• Best SUV
• Best Truck
• Best Sedan
• Best Luxury Car
• Electric Vehicle
• What to Look for in Used Vehicle History
• Why Buy a Used Car?
• 10 Tips for Buying a Used Car
• Used Cars with Resale Value FAQs

Best Resale Value Cars (2025 Guide)

Most buyers, when purchasing a car, focus on features, performance and price. However, when you plan to sell or trade your vehicle, the resale value is important in the overall cost of ownership. 

Resale value is affected by several factors that are directly related to the financial return on your investment. Cars with good resale value will help you save money, minimize depreciation and offer better trade-in opportunities when upgrading. 

This article will explore the factors that influence car resale value and highlight the top-performing vehicles of 2025.

Best SUV

Image Credit: automobiles.honda.com

Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V has been positioned as a compact SUV, which is widely known for its reliability, practicality, and fuel efficiency. This is why it is considered as one of the top SUVs with strong resale value.

As per iSeeCars, the CR-V is amongst the cars that hold their value; it retains about 55-60% of its value after five years, placing it among the top compact SUVs in terms of depreciation performance. 

Pros

• The exceptional reliability has established a reputation that makes it a trusted choice for used car buyers, enhancing its resale appeal.
• The CR-V offers excellent fuel economy with Both gas-powered and hybrid models providing long-term savings on fuel costs. 
• The spacious interior, ample cargo space, and smooth ride make the CR-V a popular choice for families. 

Cons

• Limited off-road capabilities

This compact SUV is highly sought after with CR-V’s combination of versatility, reliability, and fuel efficiency helps in sustaining its resale value over time.

Best Truck

Image Credit: toyota.com

Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma is positioned as a midsize pickup truck with an exceptional reputation for reliability and strong resale value. As per iSeeCars, Tacoma ranks among the best vehicles overall for resale value, often outperforming many larger trucks and SUVs in terms of depreciation.

Also, according to Kelley Blue Book, Tacoma consistently ranks as the top performer in its class and is considered among cars that hold their value, retaining about 70-75% of its original value after three years.

Pros

• The Tacoma is reliable and durable, it is known for its ability to withstand harsh conditions.
• The vehicle offers competitive fuel efficiency, especially in its midsize class. 
• Tacoma’s off-road trims are equipped with enhanced features which make it a favorite among adventure enthusiasts.

Cons

• Interior design is less luxurious compared to competitors

Tacoma has a loyal following that has created a high demand among both work and recreational buyers. Its reputation for low maintenance costs, reliability, and versatility has held up high resale value. 

Best Sedan

Image Credit: automobiles.honda.com

Honda Accord

The Honda Accord is a highly reliable and popular sedan known for its strong resale value. According to iSeeCars data, the Honda Accord retains roughly 55-60% of its original value after five years.

Moreover, it often appears in Kelley Blue Book’s annual lists of cars with the best resale value, further highlighting its strong market appeal.

Pros

• It is famous for its long-lasting performance.
• It offers excellent fuel economy and hybrid options that attract buyers who are looking for lower long-term ownership costs.
• It is equipped with advanced safety technologies that appeals to buyers who prioritize safety, making it a more attractive and valuable option for resale.

Cons

• Not as sporty as some competitors.

The Accord has gained widespread popularity due to its smooth driving experience, roomy interior, and modern features. This best sedan appeals to an extensive range of buyers which has increased its demand and helped in maintaining a strong resale value.

Best Luxury Car

Image Credit: lexus.com

Lexus RX

Lexus is considered amongst long-lasting, dependable vehicles and is known for its trouble-free ownership experience which makes it appealing for customers and boosts its resale value. According to Kelley Blue Book, the Lexus RX is amongst cars that hold their value and retain around 55-60% of its original value after five years.

Moreover, iSeeCars also ranks the RX among the best in the luxury category for holding value over time due to its durability and low maintenance costs when compared to other luxury vehicles.

Pros

• The RX offers hybrid options that provide excellent fuel efficiency for a luxury SUV. 
• It is equipped with high-end materials, advanced technology, and a quiet, comfortable cabin. 
• The Lexus RX is known for having relatively low maintenance and repair costs, which is an important consideration for buyers in the used luxury market.

Cons

• Pricey upfront compared to non-luxury SUVs.

The RX comes power packed with a combination of reliability, luxury, and affordability. Its strong brand reputation and resale value performance make it a preferred choice among luxury SUV buyers. 

Electric Vehicle

Image Credit: tesla.com

Tesla Model 3

The Tesla Model 3, despite being relatively new to the market, has demonstrated strong resale value due to its advanced technology and high demand. According to iSeeCars, the Model 3 retains around 69% of its original value after three years, making it one of the best-performing electric vehicles in terms of resale.

Moreover, it also ranks on Kelley Blue Book’s lists of vehicles in the electric cars category with strong resale value. 

Pros

• The Tesla Model 3 is one of the most popular electric vehicles (EVs) worldwide which helps in sustaining a strong resale value.
• Tesla’s cutting-edge technology gives the Model 3 a competitive advantage. 
• The strong performance of the car helps in reducing environmental impact, appealing to eco-conscious buyers.

Cons

• Limited availability in certain markets 

Tesla’s reputation as a leader in the electric vehicle space helps bolster the value of its vehicles. Also, with fewer moving parts than traditional gasoline vehicles, the Tesla Model 3 requires less maintenance. 

Check out more on Should I Buy a Tesla? and Buying a Used Tesla.

What to Look for in Used Vehicle History

When buying cars with good resale value, pay attention to the vehicle’s history. Look for:

• Accident reports and service records.
• Vehicle condition, mileage and how it aligns with the car’s age.
• Ownership history (fewer owners typically indicate better care).
• Vehicles that are sought after model popularity. 
• Advanced safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring.

Click here to check out Best Cars for College Students.

These features not only improve the driving experience but also provide added peace of mind, which translates to higher resale value. Services like CARFAX or AutoCheck can provide comprehensive reports.

Why Buy a Used Car?

Buying a used car is often a smarter financial choice than purchasing a new one. Here’s why:

Lower Upfront Costs: Used cars typically cost significantly less than new vehicles, making them accessible to a wider range of budgets. A gently used car can provide the same utility at a fraction of the price.

Minimized Depreciation: New cars lose a large chunk of their value within the first few years. When you buy used cars, you avoid this steep depreciation and often get more value for your money.

Affordable Upgrades: With the money saved, you can afford higher trims or additional features. For example, you might buy a used luxury vehicle for the price of a new economy car.

Proven Reliability: Many used cars on the market have stood the test of time. Models known for their dependability often come with extensive service records, giving you peace of mind.

Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Options: CPO vehicles offer a sweet spot between new and used cars. They come inspected and refurbished and often include a manufacturer-backed warranty.

More Variety: Shopping for used cars expands your options. You might find discontinued models or trims that suit your style and needs better than the latest releases.

Insurance Savings: Insuring a used car is often cheaper than insuring a new one, lowering your overall ownership costs.

10 Tips for Buying a Used Car

Buying a used car can be rewarding if done right.

Follow these tips to ensure you make a great choice:

1. Research Resale Value

Before purchasing, check the resale value of the car. Brands like Toyota, Honda, and Subaru consistently retain value, making them a safe bet. Use resources like Kelley Blue Book or iSeeCars for accurate pricing.

2. Understand Your Needs

Identify your must-haves, like fuel efficiency, cargo space, or off-road capability. This will help narrow your search to cars that suit your lifestyle.

3. Check the Vehicle History Report

Use services like CARFAX or AutoCheck to review the car’s accident history, mileage, and maintenance records. A clean history often indicates better care.

4. Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection

Have the car inspected by a trusted mechanic. They can spot hidden issues like engine wear or frame damage that might not be immediately apparent.

5. Negotiate Wisely

Only accept the asking price with negotiation. Use your research to back up a fair offer based on the car’s condition and market value.

6. Buy from Reputable Sources

Consider purchasing from certified dealerships or private sellers with positive reviews. Avoid cars with incomplete documentation or suspiciously low prices.

7. Look for Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Vehicles

If you want added peace of mind, CPO cars offer warranties and thorough inspections. They cost more than regular used cars but come with added security.

8. Plan for Transport

If you’re buying a car from a distant location, arrange safe and reliable transport. Sherpa Auto Transport can help ship your vehicle right to your doorstep, ensuring it arrives in perfect condition.

9. Understand Financing Options

If you’re financing your purchase, shop around for the best loan rates. Pre-approved financing can give you an advantage when negotiating.

10. Test Drive the Car

Always take the car for a test drive. Please pay attention to how it handles, listen to unusual noises, and ensure all features work as advertised.

Used Cars with Resale Value FAQs