Which cars hold their value best?
Short answer: Trucks, hybrids and Toyota/Honda models hold value best. In iSeeCars' 2026 study the average car lost 41.8% in 5 years, but the Toyota Tacoma lost 19.9%, the Honda Civic 22.9% and the Toyota RAV4 25.2%. EVs lost the most, 57.2% on average.
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Lowest 5-year depreciation (mainstream picks)
- Toyota Tacoma: 19.9%
- Toyota Tundra: 21.2%
- Honda Civic: 22.9%
- Toyota RAV4 / RAV4 Hybrid: 25.2%
- Toyota Corolla Hatchback: 25.5%
- Toyota 4Runner: 25.5%
- Honda CR-V: 28.9%
- Subaru Crosstrek: 29.1%
Sports cars topped the list overall (Porsche 718 Cayman 9.6%, Porsche 911 11.1%, Corvette 18.7%). Toyota holds 10 of the top 25 spots. Source: iSeeCars, 950,000+ five-year-old cars sold Mar 2025–Feb 2026.
What this means when you buy used
- A model that holds value costs more to buy used, but you get more back when you sell.
- Fast-depreciating models (EVs, large luxury SUVs) can be bargains used, if the car checks out.
- Either way, pay a fair price for that specific car: mileage, history and fees matter more than the badge.
FAQ
What car brand holds its value best?
Toyota, which holds 10 of the top 25 spots in iSeeCars' 2026 five-year depreciation study.
How much does the average car depreciate in 5 years?
41.8% on average, per iSeeCars' 2026 study of over 950,000 five-year-old cars.
Do electric cars hold their value?
Not so far. EVs lost 57.2% on average over five years in the iSeeCars 2026 study, the most of any vehicle type.
Got a dealer quote? Scan it free for junk fees or get a buyer-side expert to Check My Deal for $19 (money-back guarantee).
Sources
Figures as published by each source; checked October 2026. All buyer guides