9 Used Luxury Cars That Are a Bad Investment for the Middle Class

Yahoo

13-04-2025

Used luxury cars might seem like a smart investment. Sleek designs, premium interiors, powerful engines and prestigious badges can create the illusion that you're buying appreciating assets. And for a handful of rare or collectible luxury vehicles, that's exactly what happens.
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However, for most luxury cars, reality tells a different story. A recent study from iSeeCars found that many luxury vehicles experience some of the steepest depreciation rates on the market, draining your money through brutal maintenance costs and reliability headaches.
Here are a few used luxury cars the middle class should steer clear of, based on the latest iSeeCars data.
The Jaguar I-PACE leads the list of worst depreciators, losing a staggering 72.2% of its value in just five years, translating to roughly $51,953 wiped away. Despite its cutting-edge design, the I-PACE's rapid depreciation and potential out-of-warranty repair costs make it a risky choice for middle-class buyers.
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The BMW 7 Series promises luxury, but delivers a sharp drop in value — about 67.1% gone in five years, costing you roughly $65,249. Earlier models were also infamous for high-pressure fuel pump failures, causing pricey repairs and widespread recalls.
The Model S electrified the luxury market, but its depreciation rate might shock you at around 65.2% lost within five years, about $52,165 in value. Though electric cars have fewer moving parts, out-of-warranty battery replacements and specialized repairs can quickly add up.
This full-size luxury SUV loses about 65% of its value in five years, shedding more than $53,500. High fuel costs and maintenance expenses further erode its appeal for buyers who want to save money.
The Ghibli offers Italian style and speed, but it comes at a steep price. It loses nearly 64.7% of its value in five years, wiping out over $70,000. Add expensive maintenance and reliability concerns and it's clear this Maserati is better admired than owned.
Another Maserati makes the list. The Levante SUV drops around 63.7% of its value within five years, equating to a loss of nearly $65,000. Coupled with high maintenance and repair costs, it's a luxury SUV that can quickly become a financial burden.
The Range Rover radiates prestige and adventure, but loses around 62.9% of its original value within five years, according to iSeeCars. Frequent engine, suspension and electrical issues mean costly repairs are almost guaranteed.
Audi's flagship sedan boasts tech-rich features and elegant styling, but it depreciates 62.7% in five years, losing about $57,724. Complicated electronics and delicate air suspension systems make it an expensive car to maintain once out of warranty.
The Escalade ESV delivers bold presence, but its 61% depreciation rate after five years — a loss of nearly $57,000 — quickly cuts its value. High running costs, from fuel to repairs, make this SUV a luxury best avoided if you're watching your wallet.
While used luxury cars can be tempting, the specific models we've highlighted often bring steep depreciation, high repair costs and financial strain that most middle-class buyers can't easily absorb. When it comes to these vehicles, steering clear is the smarter financial move.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 9 Used Luxury Cars That Are a Bad Investment for the Middle Class