For many individuals, the thrill of buying a brand-new car straight from the dealership can be an exhilarating experience. Yet, hindsight reveals that some vehicles purchased fresh off the lot might not have been the wisest financial choices due to their sharp depreciation curves. The same vehicles that caused a pinch in the pockets of the original owners, however, offer a golden opportunity for used car shoppers.
Scouring the pre-owned market, savvy consumers can now acquire these vehicles at a fraction of their original cost, without sacrificing much on features or performance. What was a drawback for a new car buyer has turned into a treasure trove for the discerning used car enthusiast. Below we explore some of those vehicles cars with low resale. value.
2019 Fiat 500 – Lounge Trim
While quirky and compact, the Fiat 500 hatchback couldn’t resist the drag of depreciation. Some argue its niche appeal and concerns about reliability drove its resale value downwards.
- Original MSRP: $21,490
- Value Loss after 3 years: 58%
2020 Nissan Leaf – SV Trim
Being among the early birds in the electric vehicle space, the Nissan Leaf hatchback struggled to retain its value as newer and more efficient electric models were introduced.
- Original MSRP: $35,140
- Value Loss after 3 years: 56%
2019 Jaguar XE – 25t Prestige
A luxury sedan that came with promise, the Jaguar XE faced tough competition from its German counterparts, resulting in a sharp decline in resale value.
- Original MSRP: $51,030
- Value Loss after 3 years: 57%
2017 Chrysler 200 – Limited Platinum
Despite its attempts to rebrand and offer a competitive sedan, the Chrysler 200 suffered in the resale market, overshadowed by rivals with better performance and reliability.
- Original MSRP: $25,705
- Value Loss after 3 years: 55%
2017 Buick Regal – Premium II AWD
Once seen as a comfortable and luxury-driven choice, the Buick Regal’s appeal dipped, and with it, its resale value, mainly due to the declining demand for sedans.
- Original MSRP: $34,965
- Value Loss after 3 years: 53%
2020 Chevrolet Impala – LT Trim
Another victim of the shifting consumer preference from sedans to SUVs and crossovers, the Chevrolet Impala saw a notable decrease in resale value during these years.
- Original MSRP: $32,495
- Value Loss after 3 years: 54%
2020 Mitsubishi Mirage – SE Hatchback
Though budget-friendly, concerns about its performance, build quality, and overall driving experience contributed to the Mirage’s rapid depreciation.
- Original MSRP: $17,740
- Value Loss after 3 years: 50%
2019 Kia Cadenza – Premium Trim
Aiming to compete in the luxury sedan segment at a more affordable price, the Kia Cadenza couldn’t quite cement its stand, leading to a reduced resale value.
- Original MSRP: $34,135
- Value Loss after 3 years: 52%
2020 Acura RLX – Technology Package
Despite its luxury trappings, the Acura RLX sedan couldn’t match the allure of European luxury brands, which reflected in its resale market standings.
- Original MSRP: $55,925
- Value Loss after 3 years: 56%
2020 Lincoln MKZ – Reserve I
As a luxury offshoot of Ford, Lincoln’s MKZ, despite its features, faced stiff competition, leading to a reduced demand in the used car market.
- Original MSRP: $43,495
- Value Loss after 3 years: 55%
Why the Sharp Depreciation?
There are several overarching reasons these vehicles, among others, faced such dramatic losses in value:
- Competition: In the rapidly evolving automotive world, fierce competition means that vehicles which fail to stand out or offer compelling value propositions are left behind.
- Reliability: Perception and actual issues related to vehicle reliability can severely impact resale values.
- Market Dynamics: External factors, such as the rise in popularity of SUVs and crossovers, led to declining interest and demand for sedans, directly affecting their resale values.
- Technological Advancements: Especially in sectors like electric vehicles, rapid advancements can make older models seem outdated.
Wrapping It Up
Summary table of the top 10 cars with low resale value:
| Vehicle | Trim/Package | Value Loss after 3 Years |
| Fiat 500 | Lounge | 58% |
| Nissan Leaf | SV | 56% |
| Jaguar XE | 25t Prestige | 57% |
| Chrysler 200 | Limited Platinum | 55% |
| Buick Regal | Sportback Essence | 53% |
| Chevrolet Impala | LT | 54% |
| Mitsubishi Mirage | SE Hatchback | 50% |
| Kia Cadenza | Premium | 52% |
| Acura RLX | Technology Package | 56% |
| Lincoln MKZ | Reserve I | 55% |
For potential buyers, understanding the factors that contribute to rapid depreciation can guide more informed decisions. While some may be wary of vehicles with a history of poor resale value, others might see it as an opportunity to snag a great deal on the used market. Regardless of perspective, there’s no denying that the world of vehicle depreciation is ever-fascinating, and keeping abreast of these trends can save (or cost) you significantly in the long run.
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