Why Used Tacoma Retains More Value Than a BMW
Over the past decade, detailed resale analyses from CarEdge and iSeeCars have peeled back the myths around depreciation, revealing a clear pattern: the models topping the charts aren't flashy coupes or high-tech sedans, but rugged trucks and SUVs built to last. These vehicles, backed by high-volume dealer and fleet demand, straightforward mechanical layouts and proven longevity, regularly return well over 60% of their original MSRP after five years. Below is the verified lineup of the best performers in five-year value retention.
All of these models substantially outperform the industry average (the blue line), which stands at 54.4% retention after five years. This means that, on average, flipping that on its head, the average new vehicle loses about 45.6% of its value in the same period.
Not all trucks and SUVs stand out for retaining their value. For example, while the Jeep Wrangler is often praised for holding its value, recent data is inconsistent: some sources report a 5-year depreciation as low as 10%, but others find it loses up to 55% of its value over five years, making its performance highly variable depending on model and market. Similarly, the Ford F-150, despite being America's best-selling truck, depreciates more than the segment average, with a typical 5-year depreciation of about 46.5% - leaving it below many of its competitors in terms of resale value. This underscores that popularity and high sales don't always translate into the best long-term value retention.
For context, the BMW 3 Series - a popular luxury sedan - retains only 48.6% of its value after five years, falling below the industry average. Mercedes? Brand average 50.7%. Cadillac? Brand average 48.9%. This highlights the exceptional performance of the top trucks and SUVs, which not only beat the average but also demonstrate the resilience of certain segments against depreciation.
Doing a deep dive into why this is so, why do these 5 trucks hold their value far better than a BMW, a brand renowned the world over for its retention, here is the secret code:
Rock-Solid Reliability & DurabilityToyota's body-on-frame engineering and proven powertrains rack up miles with minimal fuss, earning a reputation for trouble-free ownership and strong demand in the used-vehicle market.Lower Cost of OwnershipPickup parts and service for Tacomas and Tundras are mass-market staples-widely available and competitively priced-keeping maintenance bills down and resale values up.Fleet & Commercial DemandTradespeople, municipalities and rental fleets churn through pickups at high volumes. Those well-maintained, low-mileage ex-fleet Tacomas and 4Runners flood the used market-still commanding premium prices thanks to documented service histories.Proven SimplicityUnlike tech-dense luxury sedans, these trucks stick to mechanical basics and sturdy electronics. Fewer high-tech modules mean fewer post-warranty surprises-and gentler depreciation when the factory bumper-to-bumper coverage ends.Towing & Hauling VersatilityWhether it's a weekend boat launch, a landscaping trailer or a tailgate cooler, Tacomas and Tundras do double duty for work and play. That multi-use appeal outlives the fashion cycle of compact sedans.Iconic Brand LoyaltyToyota-truck buyers come back-again and again. Repeat customers know the resale auction lanes and dealer-trade-in premiums, reinforcing high retail values on every new-for-used transaction.
Don't mistake "truck" for "throwaway." If you want a ride that still sells for strong money five years down the road, put the 4Runner, Tacoma or Tundra at the top of your shopping list. Their bullet-proof reliability, simple mechanicals, fleet-proven histories and go-anywhere versatility combine to crush depreciation the way a Haul-Master trailer conquers a steep grade. In contrast, even prestige nameplates like the BMW 3 Series can't match that resale resilience. Shop your next truck with an eye on those value-drivers, and watch your investment outlast the head-turners and hold its worth where it counts.
Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Yahoo
I'm a Mechanic: 5 Affordable Family Cars That Don't Break Down as Much
Need to trade in your coupe for a minivan or SUV as your family grows? You'll want something reliable and preferably approved by someone who knows a thing or two about cars. Learn More: For You: If you need a highly reliable family vehicle that won't break the bank, start with these models recommended by mechanics and auto repair experts. Toyota RAV4 New Models Start At: $30,645 (Kelley Blue Book) Toyota and its luxury brand Lexus rank second and third among the most reliable car manufacturers, according to the 2025 Consumer Reports study. For decades, Toyota's top priority has remained dependability. 'The RAV4 is highly reliable, especially in model years 2019-2023 which had simpler electronic systems,' explained Marc Skirvin, cofounder of Cash Auto Salvage. 'Parts are readily available, and servicing is cheap, with independent mechanics being able to work on these vehicles without expensive diagnostic tools.' I Bought a Hybrid Car: Honda CR-V New Models Start At: $31,495 One of the prime competitors of the RAV4 as a compact SUV is Honda's CR-V. Skirvin especially likes model years 2017-2022 for reliability. 'Our salvage operations yield a high reliability on Honda CR-V models, where less than 5% end up having engine or transmission issues,' he said. 'When CR-Vs show up in our yard, they're usually the result of collision or flood damage, not mechanical issues we find with other brands.' Honda Odyssey New Models Start At: $43,670 Looking for a minivan with three rows of seats? The Honda Odyssey remains a perennial favorite among mechanics. Alan Gelfand, mechanic and owner of German Car Depot, raved about the Odyssey's spacious interior and reliability. 'The Variable Cylinder Management system in the 3.5-liter V6 engine provides high fuel efficiency without compromising on reliability standards,' he explained. 'The sliding door tracks of this vehicle and its belt-driven accessories have proven to be long-lasting and avoid sudden trips to the repair shop.' Toyota Sienna New Models Start At: $40,635 Landing on Kelley Blue Book's list of Best Family Cars, the Sienna offers another great option for a three-seat minivan. It doesn't hurt that the starting price clocks in $3,000 lower than the Odyssey. 'The Sienna offers a hybrid model which provides excellent fuel efficiency alongside the typical Toyota durability standards,' added Gelfand. 'The e-CVT transmission features a sealed design that requires no maintenance because it does not leak.' The minimal height step entrance helps families hop in, and the foldable flat seats simplify hauling both sports equipment and bulky furniture. Hyundai Palisade New Models Start At: $38,695 Prefer a three-row SUV rather than a minivan? Try the Hyundai Palisade. It, too, scored a slot on Kelley Blue Book's list of Best Family Cars. 'The Palisade has gained a reputation for reliability based on its dependable first-year performance and long warranty,' noted Andrew Franks, cofounder of accident management service Claimsline. 'It has a highly equipped interior with advanced technology and safety features.' More From GOBankingRates Mark Cuban Warns of 'Red Rural Recession' -- 4 States That Could Get Hit Hard 6 Big Shakeups Coming to Social Security in 2025 These Cars May Seem Expensive, but They Rarely Need Repairs This article originally appeared on I'm a Mechanic: 5 Affordable Family Cars That Don't Break Down as Much
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Yahoo
I'm a Mechanic: 5 Affordable Family Cars That Don't Break Down as Much
Need to trade in your coupe for a minivan or SUV as your family grows? You'll want something reliable and preferably approved by someone who knows a thing or two about cars. Learn More: For You: If you need a highly reliable family vehicle that won't break the bank, start with these models recommended by mechanics and auto repair experts. Toyota RAV4 New Models Start At: $30,645 (Kelley Blue Book) Toyota and its luxury brand Lexus rank second and third among the most reliable car manufacturers, according to the 2025 Consumer Reports study. For decades, Toyota's top priority has remained dependability. 'The RAV4 is highly reliable, especially in model years 2019-2023 which had simpler electronic systems,' explained Marc Skirvin, cofounder of Cash Auto Salvage. 'Parts are readily available, and servicing is cheap, with independent mechanics being able to work on these vehicles without expensive diagnostic tools.' I Bought a Hybrid Car: Honda CR-V New Models Start At: $31,495 One of the prime competitors of the RAV4 as a compact SUV is Honda's CR-V. Skirvin especially likes model years 2017-2022 for reliability. 'Our salvage operations yield a high reliability on Honda CR-V models, where less than 5% end up having engine or transmission issues,' he said. 'When CR-Vs show up in our yard, they're usually the result of collision or flood damage, not mechanical issues we find with other brands.' Honda Odyssey New Models Start At: $43,670 Looking for a minivan with three rows of seats? The Honda Odyssey remains a perennial favorite among mechanics. Alan Gelfand, mechanic and owner of German Car Depot, raved about the Odyssey's spacious interior and reliability. 'The Variable Cylinder Management system in the 3.5-liter V6 engine provides high fuel efficiency without compromising on reliability standards,' he explained. 'The sliding door tracks of this vehicle and its belt-driven accessories have proven to be long-lasting and avoid sudden trips to the repair shop.' Toyota Sienna New Models Start At: $40,635 Landing on Kelley Blue Book's list of Best Family Cars, the Sienna offers another great option for a three-seat minivan. It doesn't hurt that the starting price clocks in $3,000 lower than the Odyssey. 'The Sienna offers a hybrid model which provides excellent fuel efficiency alongside the typical Toyota durability standards,' added Gelfand. 'The e-CVT transmission features a sealed design that requires no maintenance because it does not leak.' The minimal height step entrance helps families hop in, and the foldable flat seats simplify hauling both sports equipment and bulky furniture. Hyundai Palisade New Models Start At: $38,695 Prefer a three-row SUV rather than a minivan? Try the Hyundai Palisade. It, too, scored a slot on Kelley Blue Book's list of Best Family Cars. 'The Palisade has gained a reputation for reliability based on its dependable first-year performance and long warranty,' noted Andrew Franks, cofounder of accident management service Claimsline. 'It has a highly equipped interior with advanced technology and safety features.' More From GOBankingRates Mark Cuban Warns of 'Red Rural Recession' -- 4 States That Could Get Hit Hard 6 Big Shakeups Coming to Social Security in 2025 These Cars May Seem Expensive, but They Rarely Need Repairs This article originally appeared on I'm a Mechanic: 5 Affordable Family Cars That Don't Break Down as Much

Miami Herald
3 hours ago
- Miami Herald
2026 Toyota Tundra Gallery: See All The Updates Up Close
Toyota has just announced a few updates to its Tundra pickup for the 2026 model year. Although there's nothing quite as attention-grabbing as Ram bringing back the V8 to the 1500, the Tundra still receives some desirable additions for the new year, including a new color, an optional lift kit, and changes to the seats on specific trims. The sporty and capable TRD Pro trim is now available with a new blue color called Wave Maker, which is also new for the Sequoia TRD Pro this year. A TRD 3" Lift Kit and Tow Tech Package is now available to spec with the TRD Rally pack, which should give the big truck even better off-roading capabilities. Regardless of the trim, 2026 Tundras now all get a 32.2-gallon gas tank instead of the 22.5-gallon tank equipped to certain models. That means fewer refill stops. Platinum and 1794 TRD Off-Road Package models are now available with power running boards. Elsewhere, the SX Package gets upgraded 20-inch alloy wheels. Related: Toyota Tundra TRD Pro vs. Ram Rebel X: We Crown the True Off-Road Champion Nothing changes under the hood, which means the Tundra still has a twin-turbo V6 with 389 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. A hybrid version produces 437 hp and 583 lb-ft, and while RWD is standard, 4WD is available. The Tundra ranks as the longest-lasting light-duty vehicle you can buy. The classy but expensive Capstone remains the 2026 Tundra's top trim, and it now gets upgraded leather seats with a Shale Premium Textured finish. Here we can see the new Capstone seats in more detail, including the little perforations. This trim gets heated and ventilated seats in both rows. The Capstone is not the only Tundra to enjoy interior updates. Limited models now get genuine leather instead of SofTex upholstery, in either black or grey, while Double Cab models now have air vents for those seated at the back. The rugged TRD Pro still comes with a red interior. A new option for this trim, inherited from the Tacoma, is ISO Dynamic-type seats that are more comfortable when off-roading. Toyota sticks with a standard eight-inch touchscreen or a larger 14-inch unit on upper trims. Providing added convenience is wireless operation of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 1794 Edition remains a classy choice for 2026 with its wood inserts and brown interior. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.