For discerning car shoppers, the natural phenomenon of depreciation presents a unique opportunity to acquire premium vehicles and modern innovations at significantly reduced prices. While a new car loses a portion of its value the moment it drives off the lot, this initial loss can transform into substantial savings for the second owner, making high-quality used cars highly attractive propositions in the automotive market.
Understanding depreciation is key to maximizing value. Factors beyond typical wear and tear, such as brand perception, market demand, and technological advancements, accelerate this process for certain models. Our comprehensive analysis, conducted in partnership with esteemed car-review experts from Edmunds, meticulously identified vehicles for 2025 that have experienced considerable value drops, thus becoming compelling deals for savvy consumers.
It’s particularly noteworthy that this list includes several luxury vehicles. While the perception might be that luxury cars are perpetually expensive, their depreciation curve often offers a gateway to premium driving experiences at a more attainable price point. Prospective buyers should be mindful of potentially higher service and repair costs, but for those prepared for this, the benefits of advanced features, superior comfort, and refined performance far outweigh the initial new car premium.
Our selection methodology was robust, leveraging Edmunds sales data from used car transactions in the fourth quarter of 2024. Vehicles exhibiting a high rate of depreciation were then cross-referenced with Edmunds’ rigorous rating system, ensuring that only high-quality, reliable options made the cut. To further assist shoppers, we’ve also included the “average days to sell,” providing crucial insights into market demand and how quickly one might need to act on a desirable vehicle.
Among the standout values is the 2020 BMW 7 Series, the German automaker’s flagship sedan, which epitomizes luxury and engineering prowess. This model boasts an expansive interior crafted with high-quality materials, meticulous attention to detail, and a suite of advanced technology features. Its array of potent powertrains delivers immense power, while standard features like adaptive air suspension and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system make the 740i trim an exceptional find for a used luxury car.
The 2020 Chevrolet Bolt exemplifies the burgeoning electric vehicle market’s potential for value. This EV offers quick acceleration, a remarkably quiet ride, and the significant advantage of bypassing gas stations entirely. Despite its seemingly compact exterior, the Bolt surprises with its interior spaciousness. A battery pack upgrade for the 2020 model year boosted its range to an EPA-estimated 259 miles, and eligible models priced under $25,000 may even qualify for up to a $4,000 used EV tax credit, amplifying its already impressive value.
For those seeking commanding presence and utility, the 2020 Lincoln Navigator, a large three-row luxury SUV, stands out. This model received welcome updates in 2020, including standard active driver-assist features like forward collision mitigation, alongside high-tech additions such as phone-as-key capability. Its powerful 450-horsepower turbocharged V6 engine provides an impressive 8,600 pounds of towing capacity, positioning it as a formidable option for families and those requiring substantial hauling capability.
The Chrysler Pacifica continues to be a top contender in the minivan segment, offering exceptional comfort and a wealth of features. Its standout attribute is the convenient and versatile Stow ‘N Go seating, allowing second-row seats to fold seamlessly into the floor for maximum cargo space. Furthermore, the availability of all-wheel drive and a plug-in hybrid variant with an all-electric range of approximately 30 miles before the hybrid system engages, solidify its position as a versatile and economical family vehicle, especially given recent updates to technology and standard driver aids.
The vehicles highlighted on this list, despite experiencing significant depreciation from their new price, are far from being “bad” cars. Often, excellent competitors are overlooked in favor of class leaders, leading to a faster initial drop in value. For luxury vehicles, this provides a unique entry point to high-end ownership. Crucially, this rapid depreciation curve tends to stabilize after a few years, meaning that subsequent owners are less likely to encounter another steep drop in value, making these used cars genuinely smart investments.
Leave a Reply