Which Cars Hold the Best Resale Value in Australia?

Introduction: Why Resale Value Matters in Australia

Resale value is one of the most important factors that savvy Aussie car buyers consider. In a market where vehicle depreciation can eat into your long-term costs, picking a car that holds its value well can mean thousands of dollars saved when it comes time to sell or trade-in.

But what actually determines resale value? And which makes and models are topping the resale charts in 2025?

In this comprehensive guide, we break down:

• What affects a car's resale value in Australia

• Which brands are most trusted for holding their value

• The best vehicles across different categories like SUVs, utes, hybrids, hatchbacks, and more

• Tips on how to protect your resale value over time

Let’s dive into the data and find out what the smartest car buyers are investing in today for the best returns tomorrow.

What Influences Resale Value in Australia?

Several key factors determine a vehicle's resale value. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Brand Reputation and Reliability

Brands like Toyota, Subaru, and Mazda are known for reliability, which boosts buyer confidence in the used market.

2. Supply and Demand

Popular vehicles with strong demand in the second-hand market (like Toyota HiLux or Mazda CX-5) hold value better than niche cars.

3. Fuel Type and Efficiency

With fuel prices fluctuating, fuel-efficient cars—especially hybrids and smaller petrol engines—are becoming more desirable used options.

4. Running Costs and Ownership Costs

Lower maintenance costs and higher fuel efficiency make a vehicle more attractive long-term.

5. Safety and Technology Features

Cars equipped with the latest safety and infotainment tech are preferred in resale, particularly by family buyers.

6. Service History and Condition

A well-documented service history and minimal wear-and-tear drastically improve resale value.

Best Brands for Resale Value in 2025 Australia

According to industry experts and 2025 resale data from valuation sites and car auction houses, these are the brands known for strong residuals in the Australian market:

✅ Toyota

Almost all Toyota models—from the Corolla to the LandCruiser—have legendary resale reliability.

✅ Subaru

Strong all-wheel-drive range, rugged build, and trusted engineering boost resale.

✅ Mazda

Elegant design and efficient performance see Mazda models in high demand even after years of use.

✅ Isuzu

The D-MAX ute holds value incredibly well, thanks to tradie popularity and bulletproof durability.

✅ Lexus

As Toyota’s luxury arm, Lexus combines reliability with prestige, leading to great long-term value.

✅ Kia (Surprisingly!)

With long warranties and smart design, recent Kia models like the Seltos and Sportage are holding up well in resale rankings.

Top Cars with the Best Resale Value by Category

Let’s explore the top-performing models by segment for 2025.

🚙 Best Resale SUVs in Australia 2025

1. Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series

• Why It Holds Value: Unmatched off-road reputation, diesel power, high demand in both urban and remote areas.

• Resale Rating: 5/5

• Estimated Retained Value (5 Years): 70–75%

2. Mazda CX-5

• Why It Holds Value: Australia’s most popular mid-size SUV with consistent demand.

• Resale Rating: 4.5/5

• Estimated Retained Value (5 Years): 65–70%

3. Subaru Forester

• Why It Holds Value: Family-friendly, safe, and AWD as standard.

• Resale Rating: 4.5/5

• Estimated Retained Value (5 Years): 64–69%

4. Kia Sportage

• Why It Holds Value: Modern design, generous warranty, efficient engines.

• Resale Rating: 4.3/5

• Estimated Retained Value (5 Years): 60–65%

5. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

• Why It Holds Value: Insane demand and long wait times for new models make used ones retain high value.

• Resale Rating: 5/5

• Estimated Retained Value (5 Years): 72–77%

🛻 Best Resale Utes in 2025

1. Toyota HiLux

• Why It Holds Value: Tradie favourite, bulletproof engineering, rural utility.

• Resale Rating: 5/5

• Estimated Retained Value (5 Years): 70–78%

2. Ford Ranger

• Why It Holds Value: One of the most tech-packed and well-loved utes in Oz.

• Resale Rating: 4.8/5

• Estimated Retained Value (5 Years): 68–74%

3. Isuzu D-MAX

• Why It Holds Value: Reliable diesel engine, rugged simplicity, perfect for fleets.

• Resale Rating: 4.7/5

• Estimated Retained Value (5 Years): 67–72%

4. Mitsubishi Triton

• Why It Holds Value: Solid value new, and affordable to run long-term.

• Resale Rating: 4.2/5

• Estimated Retained Value (5 Years): 60–65%

🚗 Best Small Cars and Hatchbacks

1. Toyota Corolla

• Why It Holds Value: The go-to reliable car for decades.

• Resale Rating: 5/5

• Estimated Retained Value (5 Years): 70–75%

2. Mazda3

• Why It Holds Value: Stylish, sporty, and efficient.

• Resale Rating: 4.5/5

• Estimated Retained Value (5 Years): 65–70%

3. Hyundai i30

• Why It Holds Value: Strong fleet and private sales keep used demand high.

• Resale Rating: 4.2/5

• Estimated Retained Value (5 Years): 62–67%

4. Kia Cerato

• Why It Holds Value: Value-focused hatch with strong brand trust recently.

• Resale Rating: 4.2/5

• Estimated Retained Value (5 Years): 60–65%

🔋 Best Resale Hybrids & Electric Cars

1. Toyota Camry Hybrid

• Why It Holds Value: High efficiency and long-term Toyota trust.

• Resale Rating: 5/5

• Estimated Retained Value (5 Years): 68–73%

2. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

• (Already mentioned above – it’s that good!)

3. Tesla Model 3

• Why It Holds Value: EVs with strong brand pull and OTA updates retain resale strength.

• Resale Rating: 4.7/5

• Estimated Retained Value (5 Years): 65–70%

4. Hyundai Kona Electric

• Why It Holds Value: Compact EV with reliable battery and range.

• Resale Rating: 4.5/5

• Estimated Retained Value (5 Years): 63–67%

🚘 Honourable Mentions – Luxury & Performance Cars

✅ Lexus RX & NX Hybrids

• Hybrid luxury = low running cost + long-term value

✅ Toyota 86/Subaru BRZ

• Sports coupe that remains popular with enthusiasts

✅ Volkswagen Golf GTI

• Hot hatch with loyal following retains decent value

Tips to Maximise Your Car’s Resale Value

Whether you're buying new or used, here are steps you can take to maintain strong resale value:

✅ Stick to Popular Colours

White, silver, grey and black typically retain better value than loud or niche colours.

✅ Maintain Full Service History

A complete, documented service history adds huge resale credibility.

✅ Keep Mileage Low (If You Can)

Buyers often correlate lower mileage with better condition and longevity.

✅ Protect the Interior and Exterior

Use seat covers, park in shade, and avoid heavy wear and tear to preserve the look.

✅ Avoid Over-Modification

Adding spoilers, loud exhausts or oversized wheels can reduce mass market appeal.

✅ Choose Models with Reputable Engines

Research common issues with particular model years before buying.

The 2025 Resale Value Trends: What’s Changing?

Here are the biggest shifts happening now in the Aussie resale market:

• Hybrid demand surging – thanks to high petrol costs and low running costs

• EV resale improving – as infrastructure and demand catch up

• SUVs still dominate – due to family-friendly layouts and practicality

• Utes remain king – especially in regional and worksite settings

• Luxury sedans depreciating fast – except Lexus and some BMW/Merc models

Conclusion: Buy Smart, Sell Strong

Choosing a car with strong resale value isn't just about saving money—it's about making a smarter, lower-risk investment. In 2025, Aussie buyers are shifting toward practical, fuel-efficient, and tech-loaded vehicles, and the second-hand market reflects that.

If you're in the market for a new or used vehicle, the options in this guide give you the best chance to hold value for years to come—whether you’re a tradie, family driver, city commuter, or tech-savvy EV fan.

Want more tips and real-world car buying advice?
Head over to carsoop.com.au for detailed reviews, comparisons, and buying guides made for Aussie roads.