35 Cars That Are Depreciating The Fastest

Nissan Leaf

The Nissan Leaf embodies the brand’s big success as far as electric cars are concerned but it is one of the vehicles on this list which depreciates really badly. With many Leafs being leased, the tax credit almost $7.5k, and the dealer giving numerous discounts or incentives hurt this car’s resale price.

Nissan Leaf

Nissan Rogue SV

The Nissan Rogue was released as a sportier alternative rather than a more practical and square model like the ones from Honda and Toyota. Nevertheless, immediately after it got redesigned, the value of the Rogue fell 5 percent. Like the Leaf, the Nissan Rogue is just like its name (high depreciation), a rogue.

Nissan Rogue SV

Mini Cooper

This compact car is appealing and has a group of loyal fans. All the same, the Mini Cooper depreciates more than all other models of its kind. The standard cost of a brand new Mini Cooper a year ago was $20k. The 2015 Mini Cooper’s value has most likely dropped by 29.3 percent now. If you consider this kind of car, its residual value matters seeing as the drop in value is what costs the most when you own a car.

Mini Cooper

GMC Yukon

The hike in gasoline prices has generally stopped and there has been renewed interest in gas-guzzling SUVs. Unfortunately, the redesign that the GMC Yukon got has affected the vehicle negatively. Either that or people looking to buy a new car have been doing their homework and learned how much it costs to own a Yukon that’s brand new. It has a $47k price tag brand new but costs $70k to own within just the first five years and in just its first year, regardless of the reason, the value of the GMC Yukon falls to almost 33 percent.

GMC Yukon

Chevrolet Express

Many will likely not own a 2015 Chevy Express seeing as it’s a cargo van, but business owners or those who specifically need this type of vehicle may have this vehicle. It is pertinent for people to be aware that owning one will cost roughly double what it cost to buy it brand new as it has a 37 percent (well above average) depreciation rate within the first year of ownership. The reason is probably the previous model being quite identical to the newer model with a limited number of buyers and few available upgrades.

Chevrolet Express

Chevrolet Impala

The Impala is a car that’s very popular and established yet it depreciates pretty quickly. One reason is that this vehicle is among the fleet vehicles the car company, meaning most of the Chevy Impala units will become a rental or company car. To put things simply, this model is oversupplied as well as it has no unique or rare features. What’s more, these cars don’t really look irresistibly attractive, so with the number of Chevy Impalas for sale and the falling demand for mid-sized sedans, this popular car’s market value drops quite dramatically, with last year’s Impala’s $27k value now lower by 33.5%.

Chevrolet Impala

Volkswagen Beetle

Within its first year, the Volkswagen Beetle depreciates 37 percent and the resale value, as well as the MSRP of its diesel models, have gone down at a much faster rate compared to those of their gasoline models. This is mainly because of reports that the car manufacturer had included a software cheat in their diesel models so that these cars will perform well in the emission tests. Ever since September 18th, 2015, the Volkswagen Beetle has been one of the cars whose diesel models depreciate twice as much as their gasoline models. However, this means the Beetle purchased last year could become the best buy of the following year.

Volkswagen Beetle

Lincoln MKS

This model is becoming obsolete. The Lincoln MKS is not sold often and appeals more to buyers who want to buy a luxury car with a price tag of under $50k. This car has never been a top-seller, so its value falls by 30.4 percent in only one year. Someone who has bought the Lincoln MKS brand new may find this really annoying but a used vehicles buyer would see this as a best-case scenario.

Lincoln MKS

Kia Optima

The Kia Optima has as many benefits as it does drawbacks. This car has a spacious cabin, a pretty sharp design, a number of upgradable features, and an engine that’s reliable. However, the Optima’s fuel efficiency rating isn’t satisfactory and it depreciates 35 percent compared to the previous year. Brand new car owners may see other similar Ford and Honda models as more value-retaining and more enticing.

Kia Optima

Kia Cadenza

On this list, one of the contenders for the fastest depreciating car is the Kia Cadenza. It’s a pretty good deal to purchase used because it depreciates by 38 percent but it’s difficult to vindicate purchasing it brand new for the very same reason. In addition, it isn’t the only vehicle from Kia on this list because the brand’s large pseudo-luxury sedan has to win over the car buyers out there.

Kia Cadenza

Jaguar XK

Much like the Lincoln MKS, this Jaguar is facing obsolescence. Jaguar has replaced the XK with the F-type, a newer and fancier model. About a year ago, the Jaguar XK cost about $84.5k if purchased from a dealer but its value has since dropped by 29.2 percent. It is definitely not a mistake to include this specific Jaguar model in the list of cars that are best purchased if used.

Jaguar XK

Ford Mustang

The 6th generation Mustang has always been a performance bargain. Its early prices, as well as its value on the market of used vehicles, will show you that the Ford Mustang GT, with its excellent performance and V8 engine, is valuable for its price when it comes to power and looks. Seeing as the latest model is really hot these days, no one quite remembers the previous model (modern muscle car) that has a remarkable 5.0-liter V8 engine plus a pretty cool old school design. Its original price was roughly $35k, but you don’t have to shell out that much and can start enjoying burning rubber for only approximately $10k when you get yourself a used Ford Mustang.

Ford Mustang

Hyundai Sonata

The Sonata is a mid-sized Hyundai sedan that has reasonable performance, power, spacious interior, and a conventional design. Throughout the years, it has become popular due to being a solid and reliable mode of transportation. It has a standard price of around $23k, which sometimes reaches $30k. However, it’s not impossible to find a 2011 Hyundai Sonata for $8k, which is quite a big price drop.

Hyundai Sonata

Lexus ES 350

Lexus is an esteemed car company. Lexus car owners are likely to gravitate towards excellent speed and handling, luxury, and a design which is smooth and sleek. The Lexus ES 350 is perhaps the brand’s more ‘boring’ model as it appears unremarkable and average on the outside. Maybe this is the reason why its value falls by $9.1k within its first year of ownership.

Lexus ES 350

Dodge Charger

According to Cars.com, a 2015 Dodge Charger will cost you a little more than $41k to own for 5 years. The car has a $26k price tag, and during the first year, the value of this vehicle will drop roughly $8k (45 percent or more). Pretty surprising considering most models aren’t interesting and don’t include noteworthy add-on features. Perhaps the cause of this much depreciation is due to competitors that are more popular, upgradable, and attractive.

Dodge Charger

Chevrolet Camaro

The sporty and sharp Camaro depreciates 39 percent within its first 12 months, a rate of depreciation that is certainly high on this list. It has a $40k average of the total cost to own for five years. That’s $23.7k after it’s driven off and another $8k loss in the first year of ownership. Like an SS, Corvette or Mustang, this Chevy is a sports car which is made in America and has worshippers like many luxury car lines have, so this is probably why the Chevy Camaro’s value drops like that of a luxury car.

Chevrolet Camaro

Mitsubishi Lancer

Depreciating by 35 percent, the Mitsubishi Lancer does not stand out on this list. This make and model is advertised as affordable but it has a quite high depreciation rate during its first year. The total cost of ownership within five years shows how the Lancer compares to other vehicles. It is priced lower than the Mini Cooper’s base model by approximately $4k but a side-by-side comparison of the projected cost of ownership of both cars reveals the Cooper costs $5,000 less compared to the Mitsubishi Lancer. If you’re deciding between buying a brand new or a used Lancer, this is one thing to keep in mind.

Mitsubishi Lancer

Cadillac CTS

The CTS is one of the mainstays in Cadillac’s lineup. It is a well-designed luxury sedan that has solid engineering and is actually a reliable road warrior. Despite this, its rate of depreciation is 36.9 percent, which is high compared to most luxury cars. Therefore, a brand new 2015 Cadillac CTS which was priced at $45k when it was purchased is now worth around half that amount.

Cadillac CTS

Chrysler 300 C

If you compare various luxury sedans, you will come to realize that the Chrysler 300 C is a real veteran, having been introduced back in 2005, at the start of the American classic sedans’ (powerful, luxurious big, and muscular-looking) revival. The major selling point of the 300 C was the selection of powerful engines including the V6 and V8, plus the Hemi V8. The starting price of this sedan is about $40k but today, a slightly used 300 C that is only a few years old costs less than $20k, which means this stylish car depreciated significantly within just a few years. All the same, the Chrysler 300 C is a perfect choice if you want a mean-looking and big luxury sedan.

Chrysler 300 C

Buick Regal

Buick re-established itself as one of the manufacturers of premium compact sedans when it created the Regal. This car is essentially a European Opel Insignia which is American-trimmed and includes a Buick badge. Boasting a number of powerful turbocharged engines, various drivetrain options, and great add-on features to choose from, the Regal has become a prominent choice for pretty affordable luxury sedans. With the Regal’s original price at a bit under $30k, there are some cheap examples out there that are a few years old and will only set you back a little more than $10k, most likely because of the new model becoming available next year.

Buick Regal

Fiat 500 L

In the year 2014, Fiat made plenty of promises regarding the 500 L but delivered only a few, affecting the model’s popularity and its price in the used vehicles market. In spite of being a pretty spacious family car and having a decent trunk, the 500 L comes with a small engine, not to mention, below average performance. In spite of having great visibility and being easy to drive, the rivals of this Fiat are much more fun to drive offering better performance and more power. With a base price of a bit over $20k, these days, a 3-year old Fiat 500 L will set you back less than $14k, which means it faced very significant depreciation seeing as it’s only a couple of years old.

Fiat 500 L

Jaguar XF

Luxury vehicles, in general, are faced with high depreciation rate and Jaguar’s cars are not an exception, which explains why the mid-sized luxury sedan Jaguar XF is inexpensive if purchased used. When the XF was first released in 2009, it had a $50k base price but customers bought them along with some add-ons, so most models cost approximately $60k. Its base model came with a V6 300-hp engine, but there was also a performance version which had a V8 420-hp engine. Now, a 2009 or 2010 Jaguar XF costs less than $15k (good condition plus full-service history) which is an amazing deal since this vehicle comes with advanced safety features, a powerful engine, great design, and a full leather interior.

Jaguar XF

Lincoln MKZ

In the highly competitive executive sedans segment, Ford’s response to the C-Class (Mercedes) and 3-Series (BMW) was the Lincoln MKZ. Unfortunately, despite the MKZ being an actual luxury car boasting high-level standard equipment and a powerful engine, it was never viewed as a real rival. In spite of having a 263-hp engine and leather interior, the MKZ never really had the speed and refinement fast the other models did, so its price was affected. Its base price is $35k but it might surprise you to learn that a 5-year old MKZ with low mileage and in perfectly good condition costs less than $15k.

Lincoln MKZ

Nissan Maxima

The Nissan Maxima surely offers value for money and could be considered an example of a luxury vehicle seeing as it’s nicely equipped, powerful, big, and comfortable. Back in 2016, a new generation Maxima was released with new great styling, technology, and V6-300 hp engine. Brand new, this model fetched a bit over $32k but, these days, second-hand units are sold for a bit over $20k, meaning it depreciated about $10,000 in just a couple of years. It’s getting a Maxima practically brand new, still under warranty, for two-thirds its original price, which makes the buying this Nissan car definitely worth considering.

Nissan Maxima

Kia K900

The Kia K900 was the company’s brave attempt to release its own full-sized luxury sedan that can serve as the Korean rival of the S-Class by Mercedes or the 7-Series by BMW. You can expect creature comforts, a powerful engine lineup, luxury features, a high price tag, and significant depreciation rate, much like all other luxury cars. In late 2014, Kia introduced a 2015 K900 model, which included high luxury, standard 420-hp engine, and a $60k price tag, which was low if compared to the price of other models but actually high for a Kia. At present, you can get a 2-year old well-cared K900 for a bit over $30k, quite cheap seeing as it’s a huge, premium model.

Kia K900

VW Passat

The Passat is a mid-sized family sedan and not a luxury car but you can get this VW for around half its starting price. Boasting a large variety of engines, advanced technology and features, and the signature quality and style of VW, it’s a rather good car. In spite of this, due to Volkswagen’s circumstances in connection with the emission cheating scandal, a lot of Passat units with a diesel engine had been recalled last year, which gave the whole VW diesel lineup some bad publicity and caused the price of said models to fall. The MSRP of a 2014 Passat used to be $25k but is now just $12-13k (depending on what options are picked) and though buying the infamous diesel Passat is not something we recommend, the gasoline models are also cheap.

VW Passat

Audi A8

This luxury sedan from Audi is an extremely popular premium model, charming customers with powerful engines, advanced Quattro AWD, and elegance. Despite the A8’s luxury and size, its body is made from aluminum, making this car relatively light and agile. Some time has passed since the current model of A8 was released, so its depreciation is noticeable just like all other luxury vehicles. For a version that includes a short wheelbase and 372 hp engine, the price started at about $80k but now, a 2012 A8 model costs only around $30k and an example of a W12 may cost $40k or less.

Audi A8

Cadillac XTS

The XTS was introduced by Cadillac back in 2013 and boasts an elegant design and plenty of luxury options, yet it didn’t really make an impact. The driving dynamics of this mid-sized car aren’t great, unlike the Cadillac CTS or ATS, and the XTS doesn’t come with the luxury which the bigger CT6 has either, making the XTS sort of the middle child of the brand. With a front-wheel drive and 304 hp engine, the XTS has a $45k price tag, which is pretty hefty. However, a well-kept XTS with fewer miles on the clock actually sell for half its base price, so you will be getting an extremely good deal if you buy one.

Cadillac XTS

Acura ZDX

The Acura ZDX was the brand’s ambitious attempt to launch its own sporty looking crossover with all-wheel drive, a low roofline, and a powerful engine, though it stayed on the market for only four short years (2010-2013). On paper, this car looks perfect but in reality, it looks strange and rather ugly. It’s such a pity seeing as Acura’s signature qualities such as a nice interior and a powerful engine went unnoticed by the market. It had a base price of about $35k when it was first released, but for a ZDX that’s a few years old, you only have to shell out $13k to get yourself one – definitely a steal!

Acura ZDX

Maybach 57/62

Next on the list is this luxury car – the Maybach, an extravagant sedan which has a depreciation rate that is among the worst through the years. In 2006, the price of a Maybach 57 started at nearly $400k while the 62 S model would cost as much as $500k, which is a ridiculous amount of money. All the same, owing to depreciation, Maybachs only fetch around $50k right now, with some examples priced even lower owing to more miles on the clock. Thus, you only have to shell out the same amount as you would for a mid-sized SUV with nice features to become a proud owner of an extremely prestigious car.

Maybach 57/62

Cadillac SRX

This stylish SUV is surely a good choice seeing as it comes with performance, quality, and decent interiors. The Cadillac SRX is priced at around $40,000 and includes luxury features as well as a 265 hp engine. It is a pretty desirable model, so it’s impressive that getting an SRX which is preserved and well-maintained will only set you back about $15k, and for a luxury SUV, it is a real bargain.

Cadillac SRX

Chrysler Aspen

You should definitely consider the Chrysler Aspen if you’re seeking good towing capacity, an 8-seater, and loads of features but you have a limited budget. Its styling is decent and it offers comfort but this multi-purpose rugged vehicle has been forgotten with the emergence of stylish SUV models. In 2009, the base price of the Aspen was around $40k, but these days, an Aspen unit in decent shape with all the essential features costs $12-13k. This is much cheaper than the recent models.

Chrysler Aspen

Mercedes CL-Class

The CL series is the most prestige when it comes to the two-door models from Mercedes. While the SL is way sportier, the Mercedes CL-Class is a true GT car with best quality luxury features, powerful engines, and enough space for four people. That prestige level, however, has a rather high price tag. The starting price was over $100k but right now, you can get a CL 500 in great condition for just about $25k (the price of an economy sedan).

Mercedes CL-Class

Mercedes R-Class

Mercedes created the R-Class as a way to dive into the luxury crossover business. But, the audience wasn’t big enough, and not enough people bought the model. The van was therefore discontinued only 2 years after its release. While it started at $50,000, you can now snag a used one for under $19,000. Customers rave that the model has great features, engines and is super comfortable.

Mercedes R Class

Dodge Magnum

If you think the Dodge Magnum looks extremely similar to the Dodge Charger, you’re correct. The only difference between the two is that the Magnum has a sleeker design. This vehicle boasts RWD, fantastic build quality and great engines. Since this station wagon was released just after SUVs became popular, it didn’t do too well. Today, you can get a fully loaded model for as little as $7k.

Dodge Magnum

BMW 5 Series

A new BMW 5 Series doesn’t come cheap, but you can get a great deal on them since their value drops by 18% after the first year. The 2.0 Liter, 4-cylinder, 248 hp engine is much more efficient than its predecessor, but it isn’t any more luxurious. After just 3 years, the 5 Series will lose 52.6% of its value. These days, you can find a used model for around $31k.

BMW 5 Series

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The Mercedes E-Class is another high-end car that loses its value pretty quickly. The excellent performance and exquisite design aren’t enough as the car loses 49.9% of its value after a few years. You’re better off getting one of these beauties used for half the MSRP.

Mercedes Benz E Class

BMW 3 Series

One of BMW’s best selling cars is their 3 Series thanks to its lower price tag. Although this may be true, the car’s depreciation rate has increased over the years. Today, after just 3 years of ownership, the car will lose 39.8% of its value. You can score one of these cars used for a great deal.

BMW 3 Series

Ford Taurus

Not only is the Ford Taurus one of the cheapest models Ford offers, but it also has one of the highest depreciation rates. This model loses 49.7% of its value after 3 short years. We’re surprised to hear this number is so high, especially for a family sedan. Anyhow, the Taurus continues to receive great reviews and is selling at a steady rate.

Ford Taurus

Chrysler 200

Although Chrysler is known as being being an “affordable luxury” brand, the cars can still be pretty pricey. One downfall is that the cars don’t have as many features when compared to other luxury brands. Although the Chrysler 200 is a popular car, its depreciation rate is less than desirable at 48.4% after three years.

Chrysler 200

Volkswagen Jetta

The Volkswagen Jetta is one of Volkswagen’s most popular cars thanks to the good price tag and the great design. It’s similar to the Passat, but customers say it’s even better than its counterpart. Although the Jetta is a great car, this family sedan loses 48.1% of its value within three years.

Volkswagen Jetta

Audi A3

Audi, BMW and Mercedes Benz are all on a level playing field thanks to their luxurious features, German engineering and of course, their depreciation rates. The Audi A3 is one of the brand’s cheaper models and it’s a best-seller thanks to its appeal to families. This is another luxury brand with a high value loss of 47.9% after three short years.

Audi A3

Jaguar XJL

Although Jaguar is one of the most well-known luxury car manufacturers, this does not stop their cars from losing value. After only three years of ownership, Jaguar’s XJL will lose 66.4% of its value…that is quite a drastic drop!

Jaguar XJL

BMW 6 Series

The BMW 6 Series is quite unique in that it’s available as a convertible, a coupe, or as a four-door sedan. After just a few years, the BMW 6 Series loses around 68.3% of its value. This valuation is a bit worse than the BMW 5 Series.

BMW 6 Series

Ford Fusion Energi

Who knew eco-friendly and luxury could be in the same sentence? Ford created the Fusion Energi, combining both elements into a midsize sedan. Although it is electric, the Energi’s depreciation rate is a whopping 69.4%.“Government incentives play a role in the steep depreciation of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles as their resale value is based on their lower effective post-incentive sticker price,” Ly said.

Ford Fusion Energi

Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Mercedes Benz’s signature sedan is the S-Class. Advanced top-of-the-line features make the car both expensive to buy and expensive to fix. It may not be the quickest depreciating car that Mercedes Benz makes, but its numbers aren’t great with a 69.9% decrease.

Mercedes Benz S Class

BMW 7 Series

Both the BMW 5 and 7 Series depreciate faster than Mercedes models. At one of the highest on the list, the 7 Series declines at a whopping 71.1% over 5 years. Keep that in mind when you go to buy the newest (and most expensive) model.

BMW 7 Series

Chevrolet Volt

The Chevrolet Volt made history as an electric car with a gasoline-powered engine able to charge the battery while driving. With many new beauties on the market just like it, it’s not surprise the vehicle suffers from a 71.2% depreciation rate.

Chevrolet Volt

Ford Focus

Ford is known for making dependable cars at great prices. Although their cars may not hold onto their values well, they boast amazing reviews. The Ford Focus became popular in 2018 because it was a compact family hatchback with style. But, after three years, it’s value is estimated to be worth 45% less.

Ford Focus

Infiniti Q50

Infiniti has truly made a name for themselves over the years, known for combining Nissan’s engines with sporty, cutting-edge style. But, in comparison to other models, the Infiniti Q50 loses 46.9% of its value within the first 3 years.

Infiniti Q50

Cadillac ATS

The Cadillac ATS boasts uncanny features that not many other luxury cars do. With 4G WiFi, two engine options and a remote start via smartphone, this car is too cool for school. But even with all of these perks, it still loses 50.4% of its value after three years.

Cadillac ATS

Alfa Romeo Giulietta 2.0

Most Alfa Romeos don’t depreciate as fast as this model. The Giulietta 2.0 is the only model the brand makes that depreciates enough to make it onto our list. Although this hatchback is gorgeous, it loses 73.9% of its value after only 3 years.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta 2.0

Fiat Panda 0.9 Twinair

Weekends are a no-brainer with the compact 4×4 design of the Fiat Panda 0.9 Twinair. We wish it wasn’t the case, but Fiat seems to make our list time and time again, huge depreciation rates seem to be a trend. After only a few years, the car loses 73.3% of its value.

Fiat Panda 0.9 Twinair

Fiat Punto 1.4

Fiat is in a league of their own when it comes to compact cars. The Punto 1.4 falls under this category, and it’s only available in certain countries. But don’t jump on the opportunity to purchase it, it loses 73.8% of its value after just three years of ownership.

Fiat Punto 1.4

Buick Enclave

Buick is slowly moving from being an affordable make to a luxury car brand. After only a few years, this crossover will drop 46.8% in value. Consumers won’t be too happy with that number.

Buick Enclave

Toyota Camry

The Toyota Camry sure has adopted a sportier design over the years. It continues to be the best-selling sedan in the United States. Buyers are mostly interested in the newer model instead of the old ones, therefore negatively effecting the depreciation rate.

Toyota Camry

Mercedes-Benz C250

Since the Mercedes C250 is one of the brand’s cheapest models, it is very sought after. But, this car has a 34.4% depreciation rate, meaning it loses $15,247 just in the first year! Mercedes is trying to avoid this by giving buyers the option to upgrade older models instead of choosing a brand new car.

Mercedes Benz C250

Volvo S60

The Volvo S60 is another car that loses a lot of money in the first year alone…$14,204! Instead of buying this vehicle new at $34,000-$60,000, it may be a better idea to purchase it used.

Volvo S60