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6 Cars That Will Still Be Worth the Money in 5 Years
By Laura Beck,
13 hours ago
jetcityimage / Getty Images
When you’re spending your hard-earned money on a car, you want to be sure that it’s money well spent. You want to know that your investment will hold its value over time. New models are released every year, but which ones will still be worth the money in five years?
“It has to be a car, SUV or truck that does more than start and drive to work,” said Chris Pyle, automotive expert at JustAnswer.com . “It needs to fit a special purpose to retain value and be appealing to the next owner.”
There are some vehicles that have proven their staying power by offering a combination of reliability, performance, and timeless appeal. If you’re planning to sell in a few years or you want peace of mind that your money is well-spent, consider the cars below. They all have a track record of long-term reliability and resale value.
The Honda Civic is a solid choice if you want a car that will still be worth the money when you’re ready to sell. There’s a good reason it’s been such a favorite for budget-conscious buyers for such a long time.
“The Civic has a reputation for reliability and retaining its resale value over time,” said Michael Santiago, senior financial editor at RetireGuide.com . “It is often considered one of the most-valued cars you can drive, with relatively inexpensive maintenance and the potential to last 300,000 miles or more.
“According to Kelley Blue Book, a 2024 Honda Civic will depreciate by $12,698 after five years, leaving a residual value of $15,347.”
Many Civics on the road today are still going strong after 200,000 miles or more. That reputation for dependability is definitely one of the biggest reasons for the Civic’s strong resale value.
Recent models come with advanced driver assistance systems as standard, and these features will likely still be relevant five years from now. The Civic’s timeless design also helps it keep its value — this is not a car that will look outdated half a decade later.
The Kia Rio is a smart choice for value retention. This subcompact car has come a long way in recent years. Kia has significantly improved its build quality and features.
“The Kia Rio is not only a great value for what you get, but it’s also a reliable vehicle,” Santiago said. “With proper care and maintenance, you can expect it to last over 250,000 miles. CarEdge estimates the depreciation over five years at $7,925, or 41%, with a residual value between $11,508 and $13,683.”
Kia’s warranty is another factor that boosts the Rio’s long-term value. The 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty is among the best in the industry. This warranty is transferable to subsequent owners, which gives used car buyers down the line an extra layer of assurance.
Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma has earned an unmatched reputation for durability. This midsize truck is known to run for hundreds of thousands of miles with proper maintenance.
“Tacomas are reliable vehicles and can last up to 10 years or more with proper care, with average lifespans ranging between 20 and 25 years,” Santiago said. “These trucks are durable and have strong resale value. Over a five-year period, you can expect a depreciation of $18,699, with a residual value of $34,119.”
Tacoma owners often report minimal issues even after years of use. This reliability translates directly into strong resale values.
Chevrolet Camaro
The Chevrolet Camaro proves that performance cars can also be solid investments. This iconic muscle car has a devoted following. It’s likely to maintain its appeal for years to come.
“While the Camaro is in a different class compared to the other vehicles on this list, it’s a very reliable car with a predicted reliability of 5 out of 5 from Consumer Reports for the 2024 model,” Santiago said. “With proper care, they can last up to 200,000 miles. However, the depreciation is steep, with a Camaro losing $20,577 in value over five years, resulting in a residual value of $19,818.”
In the most recent Camaro models, Chevrolet has managed to balance modern tech with classic style. The result is a car that feels both nostalgic and contemporary. Many owners modify their Camaros, which means there’s a thriving aftermarket community, and continued demand for used vehicles for sale.
Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler is an off-road icon that has a unique ability to hold its value over time. The Wrangler’s timeless design is a big part of its enduring appeal.
“A staple among Jeep enthusiasts, the Wrangler is considered a reliable vehicle that can last well over 100,000 miles with regular maintenance,” Santiago said. “However, its life expectancy varies based on several factors. The Wrangler depreciates by $29,372 over five years, leaving a residual value of $33,768.”
Jeep wisely has avoided drastic changes to the Wrangler’s appearance over the years. This means that even older models don’t look out of place next to the latest versions. The Wrangler’s capability for all kinds of off-road terrain is legendary. This means there will always be a demand from outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Ford F150
The Ford F-150 has been America’s bestselling vehicle for decades. That popularity is a strong indicator of its lasting value. The F-150’s versatility is a key factor in its enduring appeal.
“Trucks hold value because they can move people [and] cargo and tow,” Pyle said. “They can do all the things a car can do and more. Go to any RV campground. Pulling a travel trailer or fifth wheel, you will see 80% of them being the trucks listed. The same applies for companies that use work trucks.”
There’s an F-150 for every need and budget. The introduction of hybrid powertrains also shows Ford’s forward-thinking approach in providing options that are likely to stay relevant five years from now.
“If you want a car that holds the most value for five years,” Pyle added, “buy one that is already used so the first owner takes the hit when trading it in. Rental and lease turn-in cars are good in this scenario. Often they have low mileage and were maintained well.”
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