When buying a car, most Australians focus on price, fuel efficiency, size, or tech features. But one often overlooked factor can make or break your long-term value: resale value. As the auto market continues to evolve in 2025—with hybrids, EVs, and petrol cars competing head-to-head—the ability of your car to hold its value is a major financial asset.
In this comprehensive guide, we explore the best cars in Australia for resale value in 2025, across popular segments including utes, SUVs, hatchbacks, sedans, and hybrids. Whether you're buying new or planning to sell, these vehicles will protect your bottom line.
What Affects Resale Value?
Before diving into the car list, it’s essential to understand what influences resale value in Australia:
1. Brand Reputation
Certain brands—Toyota, Subaru, Mazda—have a solid resale reputation due to reliability, parts availability, and customer trust.
2. Vehicle Type & Popularity
Utes and SUVs dominate the Aussie market, which helps them retain value. Compact hatchbacks may depreciate faster.
3. Fuel Type & Efficiency
With rising fuel prices and environmental concerns, hybrids and fuel-efficient cars retain more value. Diesel resale value is declining due to tightening emissions policies.
4. Running Costs & Reliability
Low maintenance costs, excellent reliability, and wide service network support stronger resale.
5. Warranty and Ownership Incentives
Long warranties (like Kia’s 7-year coverage) help retain buyer interest in the second-hand market.
Best Resale Value Cars in Australia – 2025 Overview
We break this down by popular vehicle segments:
1. Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series
- Resale Value: 80–85% after 3 years
- Segment: 4x4 SUV
- Why It Holds Value: Legendary off-road capability, bulletproof reliability, high demand from rural buyers and families.
The LandCruiser is nearly immune to depreciation. Even with a high upfront cost, it holds resale better than most cars in the country, thanks to strong demand both in metro and regional Australia.
2. Toyota HiLux
- Resale Value: 78–82% after 3 years
- Segment: Ute
- Why It Holds Value: Tradie favourite, durable, wide resale demand across industries.
HiLux is a benchmark for ute buyers. Whether you're on the tools or taking on weekend adventures, its reliability and ruggedness keep it in high demand on the used car market.
3. Ford Ranger
- Resale Value: 75–80% after 3 years
- Segment: Ute
- Why It Holds Value: Powerful engine range, tech-laden interior, off-road performance.
The 2025 Ford Ranger is neck-and-neck with the HiLux in terms of features and resale. Its Wildtrak and Raptor variants hold even stronger value due to lifestyle appeal.
4. Subaru Outback
- Resale Value: 73–78% after 3 years
- Segment: SUV
- Why It Holds Value: AWD standard, practical design, excellent long-term durability.
With loyal Aussie buyers and proven longevity, the Outback remains a smart SUV purchase for those who want both comfort and off-road readiness.
5. Mazda CX-5
- Resale Value: 72–76% after 3 years
- Segment: Mid-size SUV
- Why It Holds Value: Stylish, efficient, great build quality.
The CX-5 is a top seller and a consistent performer in terms of resale value. Its strong safety ratings and refined cabin appeal to families and solo drivers alike.
6. Toyota Corolla
- Resale Value: 70–75% after 3 years
- Segment: Hatch/Sedan
- Why It Holds Value: Efficient, reliable, cheap to run.
A go-to choice for first-time buyers, students, and city dwellers. Corolla’s bulletproof engineering and brand loyalty ensure high resale demand.
7. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
- Resale Value: 78–83% after 3 years
- Segment: Hybrid SUV
- Why It Holds Value: High fuel efficiency, Toyota's hybrid reputation.
Due to Toyota's dominance in hybrid tech, the RAV4 Hybrid commands long wait times and strong resale value, especially as fuel prices continue to climb in Australia.
8. Kia Sportage
- Resale Value: 68–72% after 3 years
- Segment: SUV
- Why It Holds Value: 7-year warranty, stylish design.
Kia’s extended warranty continues to support strong resale value. The Sportage offers great features and growing brand trust.
9. Hyundai i30
- Resale Value: 65–70% after 3 years
- Segment: Hatchback
- Why It Holds Value: Value-packed, reliable, low maintenance costs.
Hyundai’s i30 is one of the most affordable cars to own and maintain, which supports its popularity in the used car market.
10. Lexus RX
- Resale Value: 70–75% after 3 years
- Segment: Luxury SUV
- Why It Holds Value: Hybrid powertrains, low ownership costs, Toyota-built reliability.
For buyers looking at the luxury end, the Lexus RX is one of the few premium SUVs that maintains excellent resale value—especially the hybrid variants.
Other Honourable Mentions
• Isuzu D-MAX
Great for tradies, high towing capacity, and minimal depreciation.
• Suzuki Jimny
Niche cult following + high off-road appeal = exceptional resale for its size.
• Tesla Model Y
EV demand keeps resale strong, especially with long range and OTA updates.
Segment-Wise Winners in 2025 Resale Value
| Segment | Best Car | Resale (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Ute | Toyota HiLux | 78–82% |
| 4x4 SUV | Toyota LandCruiser | 80–85% |
| Small Hatchback | Toyota Corolla | 70–75% |
| Midsize SUV | Mazda CX-5 | 72–76% |
| Compact SUV | Toyota RAV4 Hybrid | 78–83% |
| Luxury SUV | Lexus RX | 70–75% |
| EV | Tesla Model Y | 70–74% |
| Budget Hatch | Hyundai i30 | 65–70% |
| Off-Road SUV | Subaru Outback | 73–78% |
| Adventure 4x4 | Isuzu D-MAX | 72–76% |
Tips for Maximising Your Car’s Resale Value
Even if your car starts with strong resale credentials, how you care for it affects its long-term worth. Here's how to maintain resale appeal:
✅ Stick to the service schedule
Always service on time, ideally at authorised service centres.
✅ Keep all records
Maintain a logbook and receipts. Buyers trust well-documented vehicles.
✅ Avoid modifications
Most aftermarket changes hurt resale value unless it’s a performance car niche.
✅ Protect the exterior
Regular washing, waxing, and garaging helps maintain paint condition.
✅ Choose popular colours
White, silver, grey, and black tend to be safer for resale than bright hues.
Why Resale Value Should Be Part of Every Car Buying Decision
Choosing a car with strong resale isn't just about getting more money later—it's about saving money overall. A car with lower depreciation costs you less over time, even if its initial price is slightly higher. For budget-conscious Aussies or anyone financing a car, this can mean thousands in retained value.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, resale value plays a pivotal role in car ownership, especially with fluctuating market trends and the growing shift toward EVs and hybrids. Brands like Toyota, Subaru, Ford, and Mazda continue to offer models that hold value well and save money for Aussie car buyers.
Whether you’re buying a ute, SUV, hatchback or hybrid—pick smart, not just cheap. Resale value is your long-term ROI.
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