THE FAMILY motors that lose the least value over time have been revealed – with a luxury compact SUV taking the top spot.
New data from the analysis of 40 million UK car sales over a typical three-year ownership period highlights which family models hold their value best.
Experts from Carmoola have recently released their new Car Depreciation Index, developed with vehicle data specialists Brego, which ranks the top-performing family cars for resale value.
They found that the Porsche Macan is the slowest-depreciating family car sold in the UK – losing just 19.9% of its value over three years.
The Macan is particularly popular in the UK due to its blend of sporty performance, SUV practicality and the prestige of the Porsche badge.
It’s championed for being agile and powerful, with a well-tuned suspension that makes it enjoyable to drive on various UK roads, from city streets to country lanes.
What’s more, it offers a comfortable and refined experience, even at higher speeds.
Close behind is the Toyota Yaris Cross, another small SUV, which boasts a similarly impressive depreciation rate of 20.2%.
Other well-known nameplates such as the Land Rover Discovery and Toyota RAV4 also ranked highly.
In stark contrast, fully electric models like the Jaguar I-PACE and Audi E-Tron were found to lose over 65% of their value – making them among the fastest-depreciating family cars.
The I-PACE, which was recently discontinued by Jaguar along with their entire line-up of cars, is a simply gorgeous-looking SUV that looks like good value when bought used.
However, the model has been the subject of a number of recalls in recent years and it has since gained a reputation for reliability issues.
The study also found that MPVs retain value better than other family car types, with an average depreciation of 28.8%.
Saloons, though, depreciate the quickest, losing nearly 36% of their value.
This research comes as July is traditionally seen as the peak season for family car purchases in the UK – with cars able to retain their value often something financially conscious drivers think about.
Aidan Rushby, founder and CEO of Carmoola, said: “Buying a family car is an exciting and important decision that brings convenience, comfort, and peace of mind to everyday life.
Family cars with the lowest depreciation over three years or 36,000 miles
- Porsche Macan – 19.9%
- Toyota Yaris Cross – 20.2%
- Land Rover Discovery – 24.1%
- Toyota RAV4 – 24.3%
- Volkswagen Tiguan – 25.3%
Source: Carmoola
“Our latest data shows that depreciation is often the largest hidden cost of ownership, so choosing a vehicle that holds its value well is a smart way to protect your investment.
“With July traditionally the busiest month for family car sales and potentially a busy summer of travel ahead, having a reliable car that retains its value like the Porsche Macan or Toyota Yaris Cross can save families thousands when it is time to upgrade or sell.
“As summer holidays approach, many families will be planning road trips and preparing for back-to-school costs.
“Selecting a car with strong resale value not only safeguards your investment but also ensures you have dependable transport for all your journeys.”
Family cars with the highest depreciation over three years or 36,000 miles
- Jaguar I-PACE – 66.8%
- Audi E-Tron – 65.6%
- Mercedes-Benz EQC – 60.2%
- DS DS 3 – 58.0%
- Kia E-Niro – 54.8%
Source: Carmoola