How Valuable Is Your SUV?
Some SUVs shine long after they leave the dealership, while others become worthless before you even realize it. The difference can net you or lose you thousands of dollars in the long run. Here we sort through the clutter and highlight the SUVs that hold strong against time and those that fade faster, offering a unique glimpse into how choices today can echo years later. Before we get to the ones that stand out as good investments, let’s first see those that quickly spiral into loss.
1. BMW X5
Introduced in 1999, the X5 pioneered the blend of luxury and performance in SUVs. Despite its legacy, it loses about 56.1% of its value in five years, according to iSeeCars (2022). Its high repair costs don’t stop it from being a bestseller, though.
2. Jaguar F-Pace
Jaguar’s first SUV, the F-Pace, debuted in 2016 and soon earned World Car of the Year honors. But expensive servicing and reliability concerns hurt its value. iSeeCars reveals it sheds nearly 59.9% of its value within five years.
3. Infiniti QX80
The QX80 rides on the Nissan Armada’s platform yet costs significantly more, and five years later, it loses around 65% of its value (iSeeCars). Fuel-guzzling engines and high ownership expenses weigh it down, while quilted leather and real wood trim keep it competitive.
4. Cadillac Escalade
A true pop-culture icon, the Escalade has starred in music videos and celebrity garages alike. It comes standard with a 38-inch curved OLED display, yet iSeeCars reports a 60% drop in value after five years. Blame steep insurance, fuel, and upkeep costs.
5. Lincoln Navigator
Within five years, the Navigator depreciates about 59%, per iSeeCars, thanks to complex tech and reliability concerns. That said, its features include 30-way “Perfect Position” massage seats and the standout power-retractable running boards. This SUV was first launched in 1997.
6. Maserati Levante
The Levante may roar with Ferrari-built engines and what many call the best-sounding exhaust in the SUV world, but its numbers are less impressive. According to iSeeCars, it depreciates nearly 64% in five years. Costly repairs and a limited dealership network leave owners losing.
7. Land Rover Discovery
Originally launched in 1989 as a family-friendly off-roader, the Discovery suffers from heavy depreciation. Reliability concerns tarnish its reputation, while features like the stepped roof make it impressive. iSeeCars reports it loses over 59% in five years.
8. Alfa Romeo Stelvio
Alfa Romeo's first SUV, the Stelvio, arrived in 2016. However, iSeeCars shows it sheds about 58% of its value within five years. Quadrifoglio’s 505-horsepower Ferrari-derived engine ensures excitement, but scarce parts and limited dealerships hurt resale.
9. Volvo XC90
Depreciation is the XC9’s weakness. iSeeCars notes that it loses around 58% in five years, with high servicing costs pushing buyers toward rivals. Still, it was the first Volvo to use “Thor’s Hammer” headlights, and it won North American Truck of the Year in 2003.
10. Mercedes-Benz GLE
Once called the M-Class, the GLE flaunts features like a bouncing E-Active suspension. Yet ownership comes at a cost: iSeeCars finds it loses about 45% of its value in five years. Complex electronics and pricey parts are responsible.
Now, let’s check out some SUVs that hold their value impressively.
1. Toyota 4Runner
According to iSeeCars (2024), the 4Runner keeps about 70% of its value after five years. In production since 1984, this SUV’s rugged body-on-frame build has proven reliable. Many exceed 300,000 miles, while off-road customization culture boosts resale appeal.
2. Lexus GX
iSeeCars (2023) reports that the GX holds 58.7% of its value after five years. Built on the Land Cruiser Prado’s platform, it delivers legendary reliability. The GX still features a traditional V8 engine and stands out with its boxy design.
3. Porsche Macan
The Macan is Porsche’s top-selling model worldwide, outselling even the 911. iSeeCars shows it retains 57.9% of its value in five years. Strong brand prestige and sporty handling support resale, and premium interiors appear even in base trims.
4. Honda CR-V
With 65% value retention after five years (iSeeCars), the CR-V’s reliability and fuel efficiency make it a family favorite. Since the 1990s, it has remained among America’s top sellers. Its compact exterior hides a surprisingly spacious cabin, and hybrid choices exist.
5. Toyota Highlander
Introduced in 2000 as one of the first midsize crossovers, the Highlander retains more than 50% of its value after five years, according to iSeeCars (2024). Hybrid versions strengthen resale, while flexible seating for seven or eight makes it family-friendly.
6. Toyota Sequoia
iSeeCars reports the Toyota Sequoia holds 58.5% of its value after five years, an impressive figure for a full-size SUV. Known for durable powertrains and towing strength, it is still built in Indiana. Some even surpass 400,000 miles.
7. Jeep Wrangler
The Wrangler outshines competitors in resale by retaining 63.9% of its value over five years, according to iSeeCars. A devoted fan base and off-road heritage fuel its reputation. Owners enjoy removing doors and roofs, and solid axles keep it trail-ready.
8. Toyota Land Cruiser
With about 40% of its value held after five years (iSeeCars), the Land Cruiser remains a trusted SUV. Its legendary reliability sustains demand worldwide, with sales spanning over 170 countries. Many 1980s and 1990s models are still in daily use.
9. Lexus RX
Mixing Toyota dependability with luxury makes the RX a popular choice. The SUV keeps 60% of its value after five years, according to iSeeCars (2025), and is consistently one of America’s best-selling luxury SUVs. It launched the crossover trend in 1998.
10. Mazda CX-5
Over five years, the CX-5 holds more than 42% of its value (iSeeCars). Sporty handling and upscale design explain its appeal. Many often compare its driving feel to BMW, while its interior delivers a luxurious experience despite affordable pricing.
