Best Cars That Hold Their Value in 2027

Depreciation is the single biggest cost of car ownership, often dwarfing fuel and maintenance combined. The vehicles below lose the least value over five years, which means you recover more of your money at trade-in or sale. Every model here is ranked on real five-year resale-retention data, with realistic 2027 prices, and every pick has a track record of strong demand on the used market.

How We Ranked the Top 10

We weighted six criteria: five-year resale-value retention (35%), brand reliability reputation (20%), used-market demand (20%), purchase price (10%), running costs (10%), and availability (5%). We drew on Kelley Blue Book and iSeeCars five-year depreciation studies, Consumer Reports reliability data, and used-listing demand from CarGurus and Autotrader. The pattern is consistent: trucks, body-on-frame SUVs, and reliable Toyota and Honda products dominate retention, while heavily-discounted sedans and luxury cars depreciate fastest.

1. 2027 Toyota Tacoma 🏆 BEST OVERALL

2027 Toyota Tacoma

Best for: the strongest resale of any vehicle | Price: $32,995 | 5-yr retention: ~65%

The Tacoma is the resale king, and it is not close. Mid-size truck demand never cools, and the Tacoma's reputation for reaching 300,000 miles keeps used buyers lining up. After five years, owners routinely recover around 65% of the purchase price, the best figure in the entire market. The current generation's 2.4-liter turbocharged and available i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrains only widen its appeal.

It tops the list because no other vehicle protects your money this well. Even loaded TRD trims hold value, and the truck's off-road credibility means it sells fast in any region. For a buyer who wants to drive for years and lose almost nothing, the Tacoma is the answer.

2. 2027 Toyota Corolla 💎 BEST VALUE

2027 Toyota Corolla

Best for: low cost to buy and to own | Price: $23,145 | 5-yr retention: ~58%

The Corolla earns Best Value because it pairs one of the lowest entry prices on this list with retention that shames cars costing twice as much. A buyer pays little up front, spends almost nothing on maintenance (about $362 a year per RepairPal), and still recovers nearly 58% of the price after five years. The available hybrid trim at 50 mpg further cuts running costs.

It ranks second only because raw retention percentage trails the trucks. But on total cost of ownership, factoring in price, fuel, repairs, and resale, the Corolla may be the single cheapest car to own in America. For value-minded buyers, nothing is smarter.

3. 2027 Toyota 4Runner

2027 Toyota 4Runner

Best for: rugged SUV that barely depreciates | Price: $42,765 | 5-yr retention: ~64%

The 4Runner is a body-on-frame SUV with a cult following, and its retention sits just behind the Tacoma at roughly 64%. The redesigned model adds modern turbocharged and hybrid power while keeping the genuine off-road capability buyers prize. Demand for a durable, do-anything SUV keeps used prices remarkably firm.

It ranks third because the higher entry price means a larger dollar amount at risk even with strong percentage retention. For buyers who want adventure capability and a vehicle that holds value like a truck, it is unmatched.

4. 2027 Toyota Tundra

2027 Toyota Tundra

Best for: full-size truck retention | Price: $41,815 | 5-yr retention: ~61%

The full-size Tundra carries Toyota's durability reputation into the half-ton class, holding about 61% of value after five years, well above domestic rivals. The i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain adds capability and efficiency, and Toyota's reliability edge in a segment full of expensive repairs is a real draw for used buyers.

It sits at #4 because full-size truck retention trails the mid-size Tacoma, and incentives can soften pricing. Still, among full-size pickups, nothing else protects your investment as well.

5. 2027 Honda Civic

2027 Honda Civic

Best for: compact car that resists depreciation | Price: $25,400 | 5-yr retention: ~56%

The Civic is the Corolla's closest rival, retaining around 56% of value on the back of strong reliability and constant used-market demand. The refined cabin, efficient 1.5-liter turbo and hybrid options, and reputation for longevity keep buyers paying strong money for used examples.

It ranks fifth because it depreciates fractionally faster than the Corolla and carries a slightly higher price. For anyone who prefers Honda's sportier feel, though, the resale strength is nearly identical and excellent.

6. 2027 Toyota RAV4

2027 Toyota RAV4

Best for: the best-selling SUV with firm prices | Price: $30,025 | 5-yr retention: ~58%

The RAV4 is one of the best-selling vehicles in America, and that demand keeps used values high at roughly 58% retention. The hybrid and plug-in Prime variants are especially sought after, often selling used near their original price thanks to long waitlists for new ones.

It ranks sixth because the broad lineup means some gas trims depreciate faster than the coveted hybrids. Choose the hybrid, and the RAV4 holds value as well as anything in the segment.

7. 2027 Subaru Crosstrek

2027 Subaru Crosstrek

Best for: affordable AWD with loyal demand | Price: $27,115 | 5-yr retention: ~57%

The Crosstrek punches above its weight on resale, holding about 57% of value thanks to standard all-wheel drive, a devoted owner base, and steady demand in outdoorsy and snow-belt markets. Subaru's safety reputation and rugged image keep used examples moving quickly.

It ranks seventh because modest power and CVT-dependent maintenance temper its appeal slightly. For buyers who want AWD that does not bleed value, it is one of the smartest small-SUV buys.

8. 2027 Ford Bronco

2027 Ford Bronco

Best for: the strongest-resale domestic SUV | Price: $39,995 | 5-yr retention: ~60%

The Bronco is the rare domestic vehicle that holds value like a Toyota, retaining around 60% thanks to its iconic styling, genuine off-road ability, and persistent demand. Removable doors and roof, plus a wide range of trims, keep enthusiast interest high on the used market.

It ranks eighth because Ford's reliability record trails Toyota's, which adds some risk past the warranty. For buyers who want standout style and capability with strong resale, the Bronco delivers.

9. 2027 Honda CR-V

2027 Honda CR-V

Best for: practical SUV with steady demand | Price: $31,450 | 5-yr retention: ~55%

The CR-V is a perennial best-seller, and constant demand keeps retention near 55%. The roomy interior, efficient hybrid option, and Honda durability make used examples easy to sell at strong prices. It is the safe, sensible family SUV that always finds a buyer.

It ranks ninth because it depreciates slightly faster than the Toyota equivalents. As a no-drama, high-resale family hauler, though, it remains a top choice.

10. 2027 Jeep Wrangler

2027 Jeep Wrangler

Best for: iconic style that resists depreciation | Price: $33,890 | 5-yr retention: ~58%

The Wrangler has long been one of the best value-holders thanks to its unmistakable design and off-road legend status, retaining about 58% of value. There is always a buyer for a used Wrangler, and the open-air doors-off experience keeps demand evergreen across the country.

It rounds out the list because Jeep reliability and fuel economy trail the field, and repair costs can climb. For the resale strength and lifestyle appeal, though, it earns its place.

How to Choose

• Compare retention percentages, not just sticker price. A cheaper car that loses 50% costs you more than a pricier one that loses 35%.
• Favor trucks and body-on-frame SUVs for the best retention. The Tacoma, 4Runner, and Tundra lead the entire market.
• Choose hybrids of popular models. The RAV4 Hybrid and Prius often hold value better than their gas counterparts due to waitlists.
• Avoid heavy discounting at purchase if you can. Cars sold with large incentives typically depreciate faster.
• Pick reliable brands. Toyota, Honda, and Subaru dominate resale because used buyers trust them.
• Buy popular colors and configurations. Neutral colors and in-demand trims sell faster and for more later.

Which One Is Right for You?

FAQ

Which car holds its value best in 2027? The 2027 Toyota Tacoma leads with roughly 65% retention after five years, thanks to strong demand and proven durability. Other top holders include the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic, both retaining around 60-65% in typical conditions.

How much does depreciation actually cost me? Depreciation is often the largest ownership expense, sometimes exceeding fuel and maintenance combined over five years. For a $35,000 car losing 40% of its value, that’s about $14,000 lost—more than many owners expect.

Do electric cars hold their value well in 2027? Some EVs like the Tesla Model Y and Hyundai Ioniq 5 retain around 50-60% after five years, but many others drop faster due to battery concerns and rapid tech changes. Gas-powered trucks and compact cars still lead overall retention.

Is it better to buy new or used for best resale value? Buying a new car with strong retention can cost less in total depreciation than a used car with weak demand. For example, a new Toyota Corolla often loses less value over five years than a three-year-old luxury sedan.

How reliable are five-year retention estimates? Estimates are based on historical data from sources like Kelley Blue Book and iSeeCars, but actual resale depends on condition, mileage, and local market. A well-maintained example can beat the average, while poor care or high miles can drop retention by 10-15%.

What should I avoid if I care about resale value? Avoid models with poor reliability records, low demand, or heavy discounts that signal weak retention. Luxury sedans and niche EVs often depreciate 50-60% in five years, while trucks and mainstream compacts hold much better.

Bottom Line

If protecting your money is the goal, the 2027 Toyota Tacoma at $32,995 is the best value-holder in America, retaining about 65% after five years. Buyers who want the lowest total cost of ownership should choose the 2027 Toyota Corolla at $23,145, our Best Value, which is cheap to buy, cheap to run, and slow to depreciate. Across the board, Toyota, Honda, and rugged SUVs are where your money stays safest.

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Sources

• Kelley Blue Book — Best Resale Value Awards
• iSeeCars — Cars That Hold Their Value Study
• Consumer Reports — Most Reliable Cars
• Edmunds — Depreciation and True Cost to Own
• CarGurus — Used Demand and Price Data
• Autotrader — Resale and Listings
• Toyota Official — Tacoma, 4Runner, and Corolla

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