The average transaction price of new vehicles continues to climb, nudging the $40,000 mark for the first time. These high prices reflect buyers’ changing tastes to more costly SUVs and trucks loaded with the latest in technology. With high prices comes increased risk in vehicle depreciation. A new car that loses its value faster than its rivals can cost you money in lower trade-in value or the possibility of owing more than what it may be worth in a long-term loan. That’s why choosing a vehicle with solid resale value can save you much more money in the long run. Our annual Best Resale Value Awards make it easier to find true long-term value.
In addition to the brand and category champions below, we’ve also recognized the 10 vehicles that retain their value better than all other 2021 models.
2021 Best Resale Value Brands
2021 Best Resale Value SUVs
2021 Best Resale Value Cars
2021 Best Resale Value Trucks, EVs, Minivan
About the Best Resale Value Awards
Kelley Blue Book’s Best Resale Value Awards are annual recognitions that go to the brands and vehicles that do the best job in retaining value. Choosing the right model brings peace of mind that you’ve made the right decision. A vehicle’s strong performance in this index ensures that it will be worth more when it comes time to trade and is another way to reduce your overall vehicle expenses, something we call can use in these uncertain times.
Kelley Blue Book’s stock-in-trade is vehicle valuation. We have 95 years of experience in determining what cars are worth. With a comprehensive data set that includes vehicle specifications, trims, sales volume, economic conditions, and auction results, Kelley Blue Book can predict and track vehicle depreciation. That information is free, and offering it on our site as a useful tool in helping you decided on the right vehicle to meet your pocketbook and transportation needs.
Our car values are also relied upon by dealers, lenders, and private parties when determining how much to take in trade, set lease rates, and purchase prices. Vehicles with the lowest depreciation rate as determined by our valuation team underpins the Best Resale Value Awards. This recognition goes to the products and brands demonstrating the highest retained value during the first 60 months of ownership.
Buying Guides
