Along with quality, performance, and drivability; depreciation is a major factor for many buyers when purchasing a new car. If you plan on reselling the vehicle relatively soon, it’s value on the second hand market is just as critical. When it comes to cars holding their value over, say, a three year period, there are a number which stand out above the rest; these are often in the higher price ranges to begin with but lose considerably less than the average 40-45% in value over that period. With that in mind, here are ten cars that hold their value within the first three years at an average yearly 10,000 miles.
1. Toyota Land Cruiser
Utility vehicles and those which work just as well off-road often do well when it comes to low depreciation. The Toyota Land Cruiser retains over 70% of its value, due to its great build quality and reliability, and its multi-use functionality.
2. Kia Sportage
The Korean manufacturer now offers terrific cars and vehicles for all sectors, and its Sportage model is no exception. Aimed at the larger family or those wanting a solid vehicle for longer journeys, the Sportage has plenty to offer. High levels of equipment, powerful engines, good build quality, the famous 7 year warranty – and a retail value of around 65-70% after 3 years.
3. Porsche Cayenne
Very different from the sportier models made by the manufacturer, the Cayenne is a sport utility vehicle (SUV) with considerable kerb appeal. Though prices start close to £50,000, the Cayenne can retain up to 85% of its value in a three year period, topping the list within its class.
4. Skoda Yeti
The most cheaply priced of the cars on this list, the Yeti is another multi-purpose utility vehicle which has the rare feature of completely removable rear seats! The diesel Yeti retains around 70% of its value over a three year timescale, making it even more appealing.
5. Audi A1
The A1 has won many awards since its launch for its drive experience, its looks and its class-leading performance. It can also add excellent value retention to its portfolio, with three year depreciation of around 37% for the diesel variant making it a good investment. With great build quality and superb handling, the A1 is a practical and sporty family car in one. It’s also at the top of the list of best cars for young drivers because of it’s terrific safety features as well as it’s high quality and performance ability.
6. Porsche 911 GT
The classic sportscar design! Porsche are again renowned for producing great cars, which drive as well as they look. The 911 coupe is effortlessly stylish, and retains an estimated 72% of its initial value over the first three years – a factor that only adds to its appeal.
7. Land Rover Discovery
The Land Rover has been a staple of the country set for decades now, and the latest models are among the best vehicles the company has offered. With a wide range of applications, from providing ample space for a large family to its historic use on farms and across tougher terrain, the Discovery is set to continue Land Rover’s hold on this sector of the market – with an estimated price after three years close to 70% of the original retail figure, this is one car that won’t lose much value.
8. Audi Q5
Losing just 30% of its value, the Q5 is the second Audi in the list, and one which again effortlessly blends distinctive looks and great performance. With a three year depreciation around 30%, this German car retains value as well as it handles.
9. BMW X3
This diesel MPV is a favourite among professionals, land workers and growing families alike for its rugged look, huge amount of flexibility and terrific performance. The usual German build quality stands out here, and with great levels of kit and a high specification, this is a great vehicle to drive.
10. Mercedes Benz Viano
Yet another solidly performing German car, the Viano looks and feels much more like a people carrier than many of the other vehicles here. It’s big and bold, and over its first three years it should retain around 66% of its initial value.