Thinking of investing in a new car? Hold that thought! Not all vehicles hold their value over time, and some depreciate faster than you might expect. We’ve scoured iSeeCars.com to highlight the cars that might not be the best financial investment.
If you’re in the market for a new ride, knowing which cars lose their value the quickest can save you from a pricey mistake. From luxury sedans to SUVs, we’ve got the scoop on which models to steer clear of if you’re looking to keep your wallet as full as your gas tank.
Maserati Quattroporte: 64.5% Depreciation
The Maserati Quattroporte, with a starting MSRP of $139,000, suffers a steep five-year depreciation rate of 64.5%, bringing its average used price down to $38,947. The 2019 model is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine, producing 424 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque.
Despite its lower power output compared to rivals at this price point, the Quattroporte excels in comfort and style. Features like the Q4 all-wheel drive and Skyhook adaptive suspension enhance driving dynamics, while the Italian exhaust note and luxurious interior provide a distinct driving experience.
BMW 7 Series: 61.8% Depreciation
The BMW 7 Series, with price tags ranging from $95,400 to $121,300, depreciates by 61.8% over five years, making the average used price approximately $33,767. This full-size luxury sedan is known for its spacious and opulent cabin. The 2024 model generates 375 horsepower from its 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine.
Offering a fuel economy of 20 to 28 mpg combined, it is available with either standard rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. The 7 Series balances flagship luxury with an evolving focus on providing a more dynamic driving experience for the discerning driver.
Maserati Ghibli: 61.3% Depreciation
The Maserati Ghibli experiences a significant depreciation of 61.3% from its original MSRP range of $97,500 to $168,195, settling at an average used price of $36,445. Equipped with powerful engines, the Ghibli delivers 424 horsepower from a twin-turbo V6 and 572 horsepower from a twin-turbo V8.
The car is renowned for its Ferrari-inspired engine performance and the emotive sound it produces. Additional features like the Skyhook performance suspension cater to a thrilling ride, although fuel economy is modest at 16 to 20 mpg combined. The Ghibli’s appeal lies in its exotic style and dynamic driving experience.
BMW 5 Series Hybrid: 58.8% Depreciation
The BMW 5 Series Hybrid sees a depreciation of 58.8%, with its price dropping from an initial $57,900-$64,900 to $26,108. This model combines efficiency with luxury, offering 255 horsepower from a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and 375 horsepower from a 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder unit. The hybrid achieves an impressive 28 to 30 mpg combined.
It’s designed to balance comfort and agility, featuring advanced technology like a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment screen. Redesigned seats and available Veganza upholstery enhance comfort, making it a top choice for those seeking a smaller alternative to the 7 Series.
Cadillac Escalade ESV: 58.5% Depreciation
The Cadillac Escalade ESV faces a depreciation of 59%, with its original MSRP of $77,695 dropping to an average used price of $31,855. While it delivers robust performance with a 6.2 L V8 engine producing 420 horsepower and substantial towing capabilities (7,900 to 8,100 lbs), its fuel efficiency is less impressive at only up to 14 city and 23 highway mpg. The 10-speed automatic transmission ensures a smooth ride, but the overall fuel consumption and the bulky size might not suit those looking for a more economical or urban-friendly luxury vehicle.
BMW X5 (Hybrid): 58.2% Depreciation
The BMW X5 Hybrid sees its value decrease by 58%, from an initial $60,495 to $25,408 as a used vehicle. It features a commendable range of 515.2 miles in city conditions and 560.0 miles on the highway, supported by a modest 308 horsepower all-wheel-drive system. With an EPA rating of 23/25 city/highway mpg and a combined 24 mpg, it offers moderate efficiency. However, the required 3-hour charge time for its hybrid system might deter those looking for quicker, more convenient charging options, especially in comparison to faster-charging competitors in the hybrid market.
INFINITI QX80: 58.1% Depreciation
The INFINITI QX80 shows a significant depreciation of 58%, dropping from an original MSRP of $64,750 to a used price of only $17,351. It features a powerful 5.6 L V8 engine outputting 400 horsepower and boasts a strong towing capacity of 8,500 lbs. Despite these robust capabilities, its fuel economy is disappointing at only 14 city and 20 highway mpg. The 7-speed automatic transmission aids in delivering a smooth drive, but the steep depreciation and poor fuel efficiency may raise concerns for buyers prioritizing value and operating costs.
Maserati Levante: 57.8% Depreciation
The Maserati Levante experiences a depreciation rate of 58%, with its price dropping from $82,345 to $26,487. While it offers a sporty suspension and responsive steering, the Levante doesn’t rank as the most athletic among high-end SUVs. The interior is visually appealing, but its reliance on too many standard FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) components dilutes the luxury feel. Additionally, the absence of modern amenities such as a Wi-Fi hotspot limits its appeal in a tech-focused market. These factors may deter those looking for a top-tier luxury SUV experience.
Jaguar XF: 57.6% Depreciation
The Jaguar XF’s depreciation stands at 57.6%, dropping from an MSRP of $49,800-$53,500 to an average used price of $40,949. The XF offers two engine options: the P250 with 246 horsepower and the P300 with 296 horsepower, both 2.0-liter 4-cylinder units. Despite its reasonable fuel economy of 24-26 mpg combined, the XF’s single trim level and lack of diversity in drivetrains might deter some buyers looking for customization. While it boasts a plush interior and standard luxury features, such as heated leather seats and a heads-up display, the model struggles to stand out in a competitive market.
Audi Q7: 57.2% Depreciation
The Audi Q7 sees its value diminish by 57%, with the initial price of $61,375 reduced to an average used price of $19,644. This model provides a commendable blend of performance and utility, featuring standard Quattro all-wheel drive, a towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds, and acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. However, its combined fuel economy of 21 mpg might not impress those seeking efficiency. Additionally, the Q7’s third-row space is somewhat cramped compared to alternatives like the Infiniti QX60 or Acura MDX, making it less ideal for buyers prioritizing spacious seating for larger families. The similar Volkswagen Atlas offers more interior flexibility and a lower price, challenging the Q7’s value proposition.
Audi A7: 57.2% Depreciation
The Audi A7 experiences a depreciation rate of 57.2%, with its price reducing from $71,200-$91,900 to $40,046. It features a 3.0-liter V6 engine offering 335 horsepower and a more potent 2.9-liter V6 in the S7 model producing 444 horsepower. Despite its strengths, including a sleek design, advanced cabin technology, and practicality, the A7’s appeal is slightly marred by its average fuel economy of 25 mpg combined. Additionally, while the large screens and ambient lighting enhance the driving experience, these features may not fully justify the steep initial investment for some buyers.
Audi A6: 56.3% Depreciation
The Audi A6 faces a depreciation of 56.3%, with its initial price ranging from $57,300 to $82,900 dropping to an average used price of $26,738. While the A6 is equipped with engines offering 261 to 335 horsepower and maintains a fuel efficiency of 25-26 mpg combined, its exterior styling may not capture the imagination as vividly as some rivals. However, Audi’s mastery of interior design shines, presenting a luxurious and comfortable environment free of low-quality materials. The remote park assist feature, although practical, may not be enough to elevate the A6 above its competitors in a crowded luxury market.
Volvo S90: 55.8% Depreciation
The Volvo S90 sees a depreciation rate of 55.8%, with its price falling from $57,700-$71,200 to $26,710. Powered by a turbocharged and supercharged 4-cylinder engine, the S90 offers between 295 and 455 horsepower. Despite its adequate fuel economy of 25 mpg combined, the S90 may not compete strongly in performance and handling against more dynamic luxury sedans. The car excels in interior space and Scandinavian-inspired design, offering a distinct alternative in the luxury sedan market. However, its ambiguous positioning between full-size and mid-size may confuse potential buyers looking for clear category distinctions.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class: 55.7% Depreciation
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class undergoes a depreciation of 55.7%, with its initial pricing between $92,245 and $128,150 now reduced to an average used price of $39,500. Known for its popularity among the affluent, the S-Class boasts engines ranging from a 3.0-liter 6-cylinder with 442 horsepower to an optional 4.0-liter V8 with 496 horsepower. Despite its esteemed status and powerful performance, the fuel economy of 21-24 mpg combined may not appeal to the more efficiency-conscious luxury buyer. Moreover, while the S-Class represents the pinnacle of Mercedes’ offerings, the high cost of entry and depreciation might give potential buyers pause.
Tesla Model S: 55.5% Depreciation
The Tesla Model S experiences a depreciation rate of 55.5%, with prices originally set between $94,700 and $134,200 now averaging $44,065 used. The Model S dominates the electric vehicle market with a range of up to 405 miles and acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in as little as 2 seconds, depending on the trim.
Despite these impressive stats, the minimal changes since its 2012 debut could deter those seeking the latest innovations. Additionally, the broader adoption of Tesla’s network remains a challenge, particularly the sparse distribution of charging stations in less populated areas, limiting its practicality for some drivers.
