US pickups and SUVs lead on resale value, study finds
CarGurus research from 2013–2014 shows American pickups and SUVs outperformed luxury cars in retaining value, with the Ram 1500, Ford F-150 and Jeep Wrangler among the top performers.
American pickups and SUVs held their value better than luxury cars in the US used market between 2013 and 2014, according to a CarGurus.com study covering 577 models from the 2008 to 2012 model years. The research found the median depreciation for models in the one-year period was 9.8%, but the best performers lost less than that, with rugged trucks and traditional SUVs leading the list.
Overview: Resale Value Trends in the US Used Car Market
| Study period | March 2013 to 2014 |
|---|---|
| Models analysed | 577 (model years 2008–2012) |
| Median 1-year depreciation | 9.8% |
Best Models for Resale Value
The 2012 Ram 1500 pickup topped the list for value retention, followed by the Nissan Titan, Dodge Charger, Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado 1500. Other strong performers included the Jeep Liberty, Ram 2500, 2008 Dodge Ram 2500, Jeep Wrangler and Chevrolet Tahoe. Most of these models are either pickups or body-on-frame SUVs, both categories known for durability and strong demand in the US market.
- 2012 Ram 1500
- Nissan Titan
- Dodge Charger
- Ford F-150
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- Jeep Liberty
- Ram 2500
- 2008 Dodge Ram 2500
- Jeep Wrangler
- Chevrolet Tahoe
These vehicles are often chosen for their reliability and practicality, making them popular choices for both work and family use. Their reputation for longevity and lower running costs compared to luxury models supports their strong resale values. In addition, the US market's consistent appetite for these types of vehicles helps maintain demand, even as they age.
Luxury Models: Higher Depreciation
Luxury cars lost value faster than the market average during the study period. The CarGurus analysis identified models such as the 2010 BMW 3 Series, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, 2008 Volvo XC90, 2009 Audi A4, 2009 Cadillac STS and 2012 Cadillac SRX as among the worst for resale value. High initial prices and rapid depreciation are common in the luxury segment, especially for vehicles equipped with expensive options that do not command significant premiums on the used market.
- 2010 BMW 3 Series
- 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
- 2008 Volvo XC90
- 2009 Audi A4
- 2009 Cadillac STS
- 2012 Cadillac SRX
CarGurus attributed this trend to the fact that luxury vehicles tend to be loaded with options, but used car buyers are more focused on basics such as the year and mileage. Features like upgraded wheels or navigation systems add little to resale value, meaning the initial outlay for these extras is rarely recovered. This pattern is consistent with broader observations in the used car market, where practicality often outweighs luxury when it comes to long-term value retention.
Why Pickups and SUVs Hold Value
The US market’s preference for pickups and SUVs is a significant factor in their strong resale performance. These vehicles are frequently used for demanding tasks, such as towing, hauling, or off-road driving, which makes them desirable in the used market. Their robust construction and reputation for reliability also contribute to slower depreciation. In contrast, luxury cars are more likely to be affected by rapid model changes and have higher running costs, both of which can accelerate value loss.
Another aspect influencing resale value is the cost of ownership. Pickups and traditional SUVs often have lower maintenance and repair costs compared to luxury vehicles, making them attractive to second-hand buyers. The steady demand for these models ensures that well-maintained examples can command higher prices, even several years after their initial sale.
Implications for Buyers and Sellers
Buyers aiming to minimise depreciation in the US market during this period would have done best with full-size pickups or traditional SUVs. These vehicles not only retained value better but also offered practicality and reliability. Sellers of luxury cars, especially those with high levels of optional equipment, faced greater losses. The findings from CarGurus reflect broader trends in the US automotive market, where pickups and SUVs continue to dominate both new and used sales rankings.
For consumers, understanding these trends is useful when making purchasing decisions. Those prioritising long-term value may prefer to avoid heavily optioned luxury models and instead focus on vehicles with proven demand and reliability. The study highlights the importance of considering not just initial purchase price, but also expected resale value and total cost of ownership when selecting a vehicle.
The CarGurus study provides a clear snapshot of which vehicles best retained their value in the US during the early 2010s. For those interested in broader sales trends, related research found the Toyota Corolla led global sales in 2011, with Asian and Chinese models also gaining ground.
