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New cars are depreciating assets, no matter how you look at it. However, smart car buyers can minimize depreciation by selecting a vehicle with a high residual value, AKA resale value, should you ever decide to sell. Here are the top ten cars under $40,000 with the best resale value after five years. Don’t forget to check out the best resale values for new cars under $30,000.
1. Nissan Frontier
Starting MSRP: $32,020 (including destination fees) Average Selling Price in 2024: $40,871 5-Year Residual: 88.6%
Why it’s great: The Nissan Frontier stands out in the midsize truck segment with 310-horsepower, responsive driving, build flexibility, and unmatched resale value. The Frontier comes standard with a 5.0-foot bed, and for those needing more cargo space, there’s an optional 6.0-foot bed—something the competition doesn’t offer. Although it doesn’t tow as much as the Toyota Tacoma, the Frontier compensates with a lower cost and the best resale value among midsize trucks.
Starting MSRP: $32,995 (including destination fees) Average Selling Price in 2024: $46,407 5-Year Residual: 88.0%
Why it’s great: The Toyota Tacoma is praised by nearly everyone who drives it for its exceptional durability and practicality. In 2024, the Tacoma remains a standout in the midsize truck market, offering an updated exterior and a greatly modernized interior. The new design enhances both its rugged appeal and comfort, which can be tough to balance. One of the most significant updates for 2024 is the availability of a hybrid powertrain, providing better fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance. Compared to larger truck competitors, the Tacoma is more likely to be found closer to the $40,000 price point. The Tacoma is one of the trucks that has the best resale value, year after year.
Starting MSRP: $38,485 (including destination fees) Average Selling Price in 2024: $49,221 5-Year Residual: 86.0%
Why it’s great: The 2024 Honda Pilot is a top choice for families, thanks to its spacious three-row cabin. In a market crowded with mid-size SUVs, the Pilot distinguishes itself with practicality and versatility. Under the hood, the Pilot features a robust 285-horsepower V-6 engine paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission. While front-wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive is available for those who need it. For adventurous families, the Pilot offers the TrailSport model, which includes higher ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and even skid plates. With a 5-year residual value of 86.0%, the Honda Pilot has one of the best resale values of any SUV today.
Starting MSRP: $30,170 (including destination fees) Average Selling Price in 2024: $34,745 5-Year Residual: 85.8%
Why it’s great: The Mazda MX-5 Miata is cherished as the most affordable true sports car, delivering an exhilarating driving experience without a hefty price tag. Under the hood, it boasts a 181-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, providing ample power to make every drive a thrill. Known for its lightweight construction and superb handling, the Miata offers a responsive and engaging ride that appeals to enthusiasts on a budget. With such a high resale value, the Mazda Miata is a good choice for sports car lovers who prefer to upgrade to the latest and greatest.
Starting MSRP: $37,595 (including destination fees) Average Selling Price in 2024: $48,760 5-Year Residual: 85.3%
Why it’s great: The GMC Canyon combines power and capability in a mid-size package. Under the hood, the Canyon features a robust 310-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which lends to a segment-leading towing capacity of 7,700 pounds. Its excellent resale value further enhances its appeal.
Starting MSRP: $31,095 (including destination fees) Average Selling Price in 2024: $42,112 5-Year Residual: 84.0%
Why it’s great: Chevrolet’s companion to the Canyon, the mid-sized Colorado, is a well-equipped truck with a great resale value. Powered by a turbocharged 2.7-liter engine, the Colorado is suitably powered for most tasks. The Colorado features a four-door cab with a five-foot bed and can be equipped with either rear- or four-wheel drive. With a maximum towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds, the Colorado is one of the most capable trucks in its class.
Starting MSRP: $39,635 (including destination fees) Average Selling Price in 2024: $45,395 5-Year Residual: 83.6%
Why it’s great: The eight-seater Odyssey showcases Honda’s commitment to family haulers with a quick V-6 engine, a refined ride, solid handling, and more room than 99% of families even need. The Odyssey’s innovative Magic Slide seat system allows for versatile second-row seat configurations. The third-row seats can be stowed into the floor to expand cargo capacity. While it may not have as many high-tech features as rivals, it beats them outright as the van with the best resale value in 2024.
Starting MSRP: $30,240 (including destination fees) Average Selling Price in 2024: $39,573 5-Year Residual: 83.2%
Why it’s great: The Subaru Outback combines the best of both worlds with its SUV-like styling and car-like ride, making it a versatile choice for a variety of driving needs. Every Outback comes with all-wheel drive, ensuring excellent traction and stability in various driving conditions. While the cabin provides decent comfort and functionality, it stops short of luxury, focusing instead on practicality and durability. The Subaru Outback’s combination of versatility and reliability makes it a standout choice for those seeking an all-weather car with excellent retail value.
Starting MSRP: $30,850 (including destination fees) Average Selling Price in 2024: $37,286 5-Year Residual: 83.0%
Why it’s great: The Honda CR-V is a perennial favorite in the compact SUV segment, known for its reliability and affordable pricing. The CR-V’s spacious interior and cargo capacity make it an ideal choice for families looking for a no-frills crossover. On the downside, the CR-V is so popular that it can be tough to negotiate. Fear not, the CarEdge Concierge team can help with that.
Starting MSRP: $30,720 (including destination fees) Average Selling Price in 2024: $34,141 5-Year Residual: 82.7%
Why it’s great: Although newer competitors have emerged, the CX-5 continues to impress with its superb handling and refined interior. Under the hood, the CX-5 features a 187-horsepower with standard all-wheel drive. For those seeking more power, the optional 256-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter engine is the way to go. While the CX-5 sacrifices some cargo space for its stylish design, the cabin exudes luxury and comfort, making it a pleasure to drive and ride in. Despite its age (7 years on the market), the CX-5 continues to impress and attract more fans. With a 5-year residual value of 82.7%, you can stress less should you need to upgrade from this workhorse in the future.
Finding a car that holds its value well is a smart financial decision. The Nissan Frontier, Toyota Tacoma, Honda Pilot, and other models listed here offer robust features, great driving experiences, and notably, the best resale values. Looking for more DIY car buying tools? Check out CarEdge Insights for behind-the-scenes access!
Tired of car shopping hassles? Let us do it for you with our CarEdge Concierge service. Our experts can find the perfect vehicle for your needs, negotiate the best price, and handle all the details, saving you time and money. Learn more about CarEdge Concierge, the #1 car buying service in America.
Choosing a car with a high resale value can save you money in the long run, especially if you tend to upgrade every few years. By selecting a vehicle with a high residual value, you can count on getting more money back when you decide to sell. Here are the top ten cars under $30,000 with the best resale value after five years, ensuring you get the most bang for your buck.
Why it’s great: The Honda Accord boasts a recently updated exterior, giving a more elegant look to this proven winner. Plus, the Accord comes with a very efficient hybrid powertrain on most models. Today’s Accord is much roomier than those of decades past, offering a spacious backseat for kids and adults alike. To top it off, the Accord offers better handling than its main competitor, the Toyota Camry. The latest data shows the Honda Accord retaining 88% of its value after five years, crowning this sedan as the car that holds value the best.
Why it’s great: Snowstorms and downpours are no match for this popular SUV. The Subaru Forester comes standard with all-wheel drive and impressive driver assistance features at a low price point. For 2025, the Forester will undergo significant changes and a $4,000 price bump, making the 2024 model a great deal. Should you ever decide to sell your Forester, expect to be rewarded with a high resale value.
Why it’s great: The Volkswagen Tiguan is fun to drive, offers plenty of room in the first and second rows, and has an optional third row. It competes with the Mitsubishi Outlander, offering better overall performance and fuel economy.
Why it’s great: The Mazda 3 stands out in the compact car segment for several reasons. It features an upscale interior with high-quality materials and a design that almost feels premium. Whether you choose the sedan or the hatchback, the Mazda 3 offers a fun-to-drive experience with its responsive handling and peppy engine options.
Why it’s great: Simply the best small car on sale today. However, the Civic does face stiff competition from another car on this list, the Mazda3. The Civic’s infotainment has improved in recent model years, adding to the overall value of this legendary sedan.The Honda Civic is renowned for its reliability, spacious cabin, and excellent fuel efficiency, making it an outstanding choice for first-time buyers and budget-conscious drivers alike.
Why it’s great: The Toyota Prius has undergone a remarkable transformation with its latest redesign, offering a sleek and modern look that sets it apart from older generations. Gone is the ‘nerdy’ Prius of the 2000s. Known for its exceptional fuel economy, the Prius now achieves an impressive 56 miles per gallon combined, making it one of the most efficient vehicles on the market. The availability of an all-wheel drive option enhances its versatility.
Why it’s great: The Subaru Legacy stands out as the best all-wheel drive sedan under $30,000. It provides a simple, no-frills interior that focuses on functionality and comfort, making it an excellent choice for drivers who prefer straightforward design over flashy features. Subaru’s reputation for durability and value retention make the Legacy a top contender for those seeking a dependable, all-wheel drive sedan that holds its value well over time.
Why it’s great: The Volkswagen Jetta is a standout in the compact sedan segment, offering a combination of affordability, efficiency, and comfort. Known for its spacious interior, the Jetta provides ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. These features, combined with its low price tag and strong resale value, make the Volkswagen Jetta an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and affordablec car with the best resale value.
Why it’s great: The Subaru Crosstrek offers standard all-wheel drive at an affordable price, excellent fuel efficiency considering its all-terrain capability, A comfortable and confident drive appeals to many, making this one of Subaru’s best-sellers less than a decade after its launch. A recent update includes more comfortable seats and additional sound-deadening materials, resulting in a quieter and more enjoyable ride. Inside, the Crosstrek features a spacious cabin with modern technology, including a user-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Why it’s great: The Toyota Camry has been the best-selling sedan in the U.S. for over 20 years, and for good reason. The Camry’s performance is bolstered by the availability of a six-cylinder powertrain, providing more power while still maintaining good fuel efficiency. For 2025, the Camry will be redesigned as a hybrid-only sedan, promising over 50 miles per gallon across all trims, which further enhances its appeal. The new design will likely continue the Camry’s legacy of reliability and as a car with great resale value.
Choosing a car with the best resale value is always a smart financial decision. The Honda Accord, Subaru Forester, Toyota Camry, and other models listed here offer robust features, a great driving experience, and notably, high resale values. By choosing one of these vehicles, you can expect a bigger paycheck when it’s time to sell.
Tired of car shopping hassles? Let us do it for you with our CarEdge Concierge service. Our experts can find the perfect vehicle for your needs, negotiate the best price, and handle all the details, saving you time and money. Learn more about CarEdge Concierge, the #1 car buying service in America.
Choosing the right car as a first-time buyer can feel like a daunting task, but with knowledge and empowerment, it doesn’t have to be. What should first-time buyers and new drivers look for in a vehicle? Reliability, affordability, and fuel economy are key factors to consider. In 2024, several models stand out for their exceptional value for new drivers. Here are the top five cars for first-time buyers, with insights to help guide your decision.
1. Honda Civic
Why First-Time Buyers Love It: The Honda Civic has evolved over the years, offering more space while maintaining its compact and reliable nature. Renowned for its excellent fuel economy and attainable price point, the Civic is a popular choice among first-time buyers.
Starting Price: $25,045 (increasing to $25,345 for 2025)
Fuel Economy: 33 – 36 miles per gallon combined city/highway
Current Market Conditions: The average selling price of a new Honda Civic is $27,568 in 2024. There’s a 34-day supply of new Civics, which is below normal. Work with a car-buying Concierge to avoid dealer markups!
Why First-Time Buyers Love It: The Toyota Corolla is synonymous with affordability and reliability. Known for its proven track record, the Corolla offers peace of mind to first-time buyers looking for a durable and economical car. It’s safe, fuel efficient, and low-maintenance. What more could you want? Perhaps more room? Toyota has brought the Corolla Cross to market for that very reason.
Starting Price: $23,145
Fuel Economy: 35 miles per gallon combined city/highway (50 MPG for the Corolla Hybrid)
Current Market Conditions: The average selling price of a new Toyota Corolla is $25,484 in 2024. There’s a 35-day supply of new Corollas, which is below normal. Work with a car-buying Concierge to avoid dealer markups!
Why First-Time Buyers Love It: If you need something slightly larger than a sedan with a higher stance on the road, the Toyota RAV4 is an excellent option. This crossover combines size with ease of driving, making it perfect for first-timers. With a 5-star safety rating and a large market presence, getting a fair price in 2024 is quite doable. The Honda CR-V is also a great option for all the same reasons.
Starting Price: $30,025
Fuel Economy: 30 miles per gallon combined city/highway (39 MPG for the RAV4 Hybrid)
Current Market Conditions: The average selling price of a new Toyota RAV4 is $37,721 in 2024. There’s a 29-day supply of new RAV4s, which is below normal. Work with a car-buying Concierge to avoid dealer markups!
Why First-Time Buyers Love It: Subaru is known for being more pro-consumer than many of its competitors, making it easier to find a fair price. The Crosstrek stands out with its all-wheel drive capabilities, ideal for those needing extra traction. It’s a versatile and reliable choice for new drivers.
Starting Price: $26,540
Fuel Economy: 29 miles per gallon combined city/highway
Current Market Conditions: The average selling price of a new Subaru Crosstrek is $32,047 in 2024. There’s a 77-day supply of new Crosstreks, which is near the market average.
Why First-Time Buyers Love It: For those considering a truck, the Toyota Tacoma is a great option. If you don’t need a full-sized truck, the mid-sized Tacoma offers durability and practicality. In 2024, it’s more likely to find a new Tacoma closer to the $40,000 price point compared to larger truck competitors, making it an accessible choice for first-time truck buyers.
Starting Price: $32,995
Fuel Economy: 23 miles per gallon combined city/highway
Current Market Conditions: The average selling price of a new Toyota Tacoma is $46,407 in 2024. There’s a 65-day supply of new Tacomas, which is close to the market average today.
Finding the perfect car as a first-time buyer involves balancing cost, reliability, and overall value. The Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Toyota RAV4, Subaru Crosstrek, and Toyota Tacoma excel in these areas, making them the best choices for new drivers today. It’s a buyer’s market in 2024, and no buyer should pay for markups on these value-packed models.
Tired of car shopping hassles? Let us do it for you with our CarEdge Concierge service. Our experts can find the perfect vehicle for your needs, negotiate the best price, and handle all the details, saving you time and money. Learn more about CarEdge Concierge, the #1 car buying service in America.
In 2025, the average used car sells for nearly $26,000. Needless to say, that’s a lot of money for an older model. Is it still possible to buy a used car for under $15,000? Believe it or not, reliable models from Honda, Subaru, and even Toyota are available for under $15K in 2025. From sedans to crossovers, and even an affordable EV, here are the top five budget-friendly used cars that deliver value without breaking the bank.
Why Drivers Love It: The Toyota Camry has long been a staple in the mid-size sedan market, known for its reliability and comfort. The 2015 features what drivers have come to expect from the Camry: a spacious interior, smooth ride, and excellent fuel economy. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a dependable car under $15,000.
Why Drivers Love It: The 2016 Subaru Forester stands out for its all-wheel-drive capability and spacious interior. It’s perfect for families and individuals who need a versatile vehicle for all-weather driving. The Forester’s high safety ratings and robust design make it a great investment for those seeking a durable and affordable SUV.
Why Drivers Love It: The Honda Civic is a compact car that checks all the boxes for a commuter car. The Civic’s reputation for longevity stretches back decades. The 2015 model may be nearly ten years old, but is still known for its comfortable ride, no-fuss tech, and decent fuel economy. It’s an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers looking for a car under $15k.
Why Drivers Love It: Theres a reason why CR-Vs seem to be everywhere you look. Like other model years, the 2014 Honda CR-V is known for reliability and practicality. It offers a spacious albeit compact interior, ample cargo space, and a smooth ride. Simply put, you know what you’re getting with the CR-V, even one that’s a decade old.
Fuel Economy: 238 miles of driving range per full charge
Why Drivers Love It: For those who primarily drive around town and want to avoid fuel costs, the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV is an excellent option. Charging at home is A LOT cheaper than paying for gas. This all-electric vehicle offers impressive range and zippy acceleration. Charging speeds are slow even at a DC fast charger, taking a full hour to add 200 miles of range. But for commuting to work or sticking around town, the gas savings could really make a used Bolt pay for itself over time.
A few years back, a serious recall required that all Bolt EVs get a new battery, free of charge. Therefore, it’s essential to verify that the battery replacement recall has been addressed before you buy. The good news is that Bolt drivers have reported nothing but satisfaction ever since the recall debacle was settled.
Finding a budget-friendly used car is possible in 2025; all it takes is familiarity with today’s car market and negotiation know-how. From the Camry to the all-wheel drive Forester and more, car buyers have a surprising number of options when shopping for a used car under $15k in 2025. Each of these models offers robust features, solid safety ratings, and a pleasant driving experience.
Tired of car shopping hassles? Let us do it for you with our CarEdge Concierge service. Our experts can find the perfect vehicle for your needs, negotiate the best price, and handle all the details, saving you time and money. Learn more about CarEdge Concierge, the #1 car buying service in America.
You’ve got kids, yet you’re not ready to give up a great ride. Fortunately, there are plenty of superb cars for families in 2024. These SUVs stand out for their unmatched value as people-movers. Here are the top five family-friendly cars for 2024, and the current market conditions for each.
1. Ford Expedition (Best Full-Size SUV)
Starting Price: $57,625
CarEdge Pick: XLT, starting at $61,690
Today’s Average Selling Price: $76,202 (158 days of supply, 21,635 for sale)
Why Families Love It: Families with more than a few car seats love the Expedition for one obvious reason: it’s massive. Jokingly called a ‘big rig’ by some, the Ford Expedition has seating for eight across three spacious rows. Our good friend The Car Mom decided on the Expedition for her growing family, and has many good things to say about the model. The Expedition’s passenger volume is an astounding 172 cubic feet. Cargo space behind the front seats is huge at 105 cubic feet.
Why Families Love It: Known for value, flexibility, and more luxury than you’d expect at this price point, the Hyundai Palisade has been gaining popularity for all the right reasons. For about $40k, families get the flexibility of three rows of seating, totaling up to 155 cubic feet of passenger space and 86 cubic feet of max cargo capacity.
Why Families Love It: Craving a hint of luxury in a three-row SUV for under $45,000? The Kia Telluride is the perfect fit. Reviewers all agree that the Telluride is the best of both worlds for those looking to transport the family without the minivan lifestyle. The Telluride has 178 cubic feet of passenger room, and 87 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the first row.
Why Families Love It: Families who aren’t ready to take the minivan dive love the VW Atlas for its three rows of seats surrounded by surprisingly fun looks. The Atlas comfortably seats seven, and features up to 97 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row. Passenger volume is decent at 154 cubic feet with the third row. What if you don’t need a third row? The Atlas Cross Sport trades the extra seats for a sportier drive and sharper looks.
Fuel Economy: 304 miles of driving range (charge 10-80% in 24 minutes)
Why Families Love It: The Kia EV9 is the most affordable three-row EV on the market in 2024. Featuring very fast charging and between 270 and 204 miles of range, the EV9 is not just for hauling the kids around town, but for road trips too. The 2024 Kia EV9 has passenger volume of 158.8 to 160.3 cubic feet, and max cargo volume of 81.7 feet.
Selecting the perfect family car involves balancing safety, space, and practicality. The Ford Expedition, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Volkswagen Atlas, and Kia EV9 excel in these areas, making them the best choices for families in 2024. Plus, these SUVs are available at a reasonable price, and are even negotiable in today’s market.
Tired of car shopping hassles? Let us do it for you with our CarEdge Concierge service. Our experts can find the perfect vehicle for your family, negotiate the best price, and handle all the details, saving you time and money. Learn more about CarEdge Concierge, the #1 car buying service in America.
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