Ranking of the fastest-deprecating cars in 2024
If you buy a luxury car, drive it for a few years and pay off the loan, only to find that it is about to turn into scrap metal, it will be a heart-wrenching heart. If you don't want to see your car depreciate to the point of crying, then you have to avoid the following pitfalls!
Research says it's much cheaper to buy a car now than it was in 2019, when it lost half of its value in five years and now costs only 38.8%. But the trams are not good, they are still as brutal as they used to be, about 50%. If you want to preserve your value, hybrids, economy cars and trucks are all good options.
Well, without further ado, let's take a look at which cars depreciate the fastest!
Maserati President Sedan
Five-year depreciation rate: 64.5%
Ranking of the fastest-deprecating cars in 2024
If you want to make the word "sedan" sound more interesting, look no further than the Maserati Quattroporte, whose name translates to "Italian-style four-door depreciation machine".
However, it is indeed beautiful inside and out, and can emit a low roar that can only be heard in that part of Europe. You may have to pay hundreds of RMB per kilometer for this privilege, so be sure to enjoy it.
BMW 7 Series
- Five-year depreciation rate: 61.8%
Ranking of the fastest-deprecating cars in 2024
The 2024 BMW 7 Series lineup has been updated with the addition of several new configuration levels, one of which is a powerful and efficient plug-in hybrid model, as well as an updated infotainment system. This is another upgrade following a complete redesign in 2023, placing this BMW at the top of our luxury jumbo sedan rankings.
The 7 Series is expensive even among large limousines, so its high depreciation rate is perhaps to be expected. However, it has a wide and elegant body, supportive and comfortable seats, an excellent engine lineup, and handling that balances sportiness and comfort.
Maserati Ghibli
- Five-year depreciation rate: 61.3%
Ranking of the fastest-deprecating cars in 2024
With its muscular lines and luxurious sporty style, the Maserati Ghibli will be discontinued after 2023, but this is also a good reason to consider a used car, after all, its depreciation rate is really staggering.
Available in four configurations, the Ghibli has horsepower ranging from 345 to 572 horsepower, and the exterior design is unique among all exotic sedans. This Maserati is stylish and sexy, and if you can find a former owner who is willing to bear the 61% depreciation, the car will smell even better.
BMW 5 Series
- Five-year depreciation rate: 58.8%
Ranking of the fastest-deprecating cars in 2024
The BMW 5 Series is a great car, but the depreciation rate is staggering, although it's worth noting that this refers specifically to the hybrid version of the 5 Series. The 5 Series has been completely redesigned for the 2024 model year, placing it at the top of our luxury midsize car rankings.
This BMW has a lot of money, and the steering feedback may not be as strong as some BMW fans expect. However, it has the advantage of being spacious and comfortable, with an elegant interior design, and the fuel economy of most models is excellent in its class.
BMW X5
- Five-year depreciation rate: 58.2%
Ranking of the fastest-deprecating cars in 2024
It's no easy feat to stand out in the highly competitive luxury midsize SUV segment, but the BMW X5 does it and does it quite well. First of all, it's worth noting that the hybrid version of the X5 is being targeted here.
Overall, the X5's optional small third-row seats are a minor drawback, especially considering that this is a mid-size rather than a large SUV. As for the infotainment system, the learning curve is steep, which is typical of BMW. The X5 shines on its premium design, good build quality, and balance between good performance and impressive fuel economy.
Infiniti QX80
Five-year depreciation rate: 58.1%
Ranking of the fastest-deprecating cars in 2024
As a model positioned as a luxury large SUV, the QX80 is at the bottom of our class, which is really hardly excellent. Since its launch in 2011, the car has been pretty much standing still, and in a world where competitors are constantly evolving, this conservative strategy is clearly inadequate.
Admittedly, the QX80 has plenty of interior space and a decent luggage compartment volume, but for its size, the legroom in the third-row seats is still cramped. In terms of power system, although the 5.6-liter V8 engine equipped with it has strong output, 100 kilometers of acceleration and towing ability, but the "hard" personality also brings staggering fuel consumption. As for the handling, this behemoth weighing about 2.7 tons has an indescribable agility in steering response and body attitude control, typical of the American style of a big man.
Overall, the QX80 feels like an "old-school" American full-size SUV, with a sense of luxury and technology compared with European competitors in the same class, no wonder it will suffer such a serious depreciation.
Maserati Levante
Five-year depreciation rate: 57.8%
Ranking of the fastest-deprecating cars in 2024
As one of the lowest luxury midsize SUVs on our list of luxury midsize SUVs, the Levante has lost more than half of its value in five years, making it hard to afford it.
Objectively speaking, the Levante is a good car, but it hasn't undergone a significant facelift since 2021, and the powertrain has been in place since 2019. Inside, the luggage compartment is below average for its class, and the second-row passenger space is cramped. However, it has to be admitted that its styling is indeed quite attractive, and the driving pleasure is also quite impressive. However, most competitors in the same class are just as good in these areas.
From a review perspective, the biggest problem with the Levante is that it doesn't take full advantage of the Maserati brand. As a sporty luxury SUV, it neither reflects the pure passion of an Italian sports car, nor does it compete with the German top three in terms of luxury and technology. Coupled with its staggering depreciation rate, I'm afraid only hardcore Martha fans will favor it.
For savvy buyers, instead of buying a new car, it is better to wait a few years to pan for gold in the second-hand market. After all, being able to buy an Italian luxury SUV that is still full of charm for less than half the price still sounds appealing, doesn't it?
Jaguar XF
Five-year depreciation rate: 57.6%
Ranking of the fastest-deprecating cars in 2024
Although the XF has a relatively affordable starting price in the luxury midsize segment, its depreciation rate is still staggering. In our segment rankings, the XF is almost at the bottom, mainly because this model hasn't had a major update for a long time.
In terms of styling, the XF maintains Jaguar's usual elegance genes and is quite recognizable in its class. However, the overall design language is slightly archaic, and this is especially evident in the interior. For buyers in this class, the XF's performance in luxury equipment is probably not satisfactory. Still, it's fair to say that the XF has quite a few highlights when it comes to user-friendly in-car technology.
The driving experience is one of the highlights of the XF. Spacious seats and excellent road sense tuning bring a comfortable ride to passengers. In terms of smoothness, the XF still maintains Jaguar's heritage.
From a review perspective, the biggest problem with the XF is that it seems to be lost between luxury and sportiness. As a luxury mid-size sedan, it has not been able to surpass the German top three in terms of technology and luxury, nor has it been able to fully demonstrate the sports genes of the Jaguar brand. This awkward positioning, combined with the fact that the brand premium is not as high as that of its German rivals, has led to its staggering depreciation rate.
For Jaguar fans, the XF is still a good choice, especially in the second-hand market. After all, it still sounds appealing to be able to get a still elegant British gentleman's car for less than half the price. But for new car buyers, I am afraid that it needs to be carefully considered.
Audi A7
Five-year depreciation rate: 57.2%
Ranking of the fastest-deprecating cars in 2024
The A7 dominates our list of luxury large cars, with few significant shortcomings, aside from a slightly distracting infotainment system and a staggering depreciation rate. Putting these two points aside, the A7's overall performance is impressive, more than enough to meet the needs of most buyers in this class.
The 2024 A7 has been fine-tuned on the outside, but still retains its iconic fastback coupe styling, and the sporty DNA is still strong. In terms of powertrain, the A7 is only available as a single engine option, but this powertrain is a perfect match for its agile handling and excellent quattro all-wheel drive system. In terms of standard equipment, Audi can be said to have put a lot of effort into it, whether it is comfort configuration or advanced safety technology, it is remarkable.
From a car review perspective, the A7 is a rare all-rounder. It is the perfect interpretation of the concept of a "four-door coupe", which not only has a striking appearance, but also is practical and sporty. In terms of interior materials and workmanship, the A7 shows Audi's usual high level, and although the dual-screen design with a sense of technology requires a certain adaptation period, it undoubtedly adds a sense of the future to the car.
However, the A7's five-year depreciation rate of 57.2% is indeed jaw-dropping. This may reflect fierce competition in the luxury car market, or it may hint at consumers' pursuit of new technologies and designs. For those buyers who value value retention, the A7 may not be the best choice. But for consumers who want to experience the best of German technology and design, especially in the second-hand market, the A7 is undoubtedly an attractive option.
After all, it sounds tempting to get your hands on an elegant, sporty and high-tech German luxury coupe for less than half the price.
Audi Q7
Five-year depreciation rate: 56.8%
Ranking of the fastest-deprecating cars in 2024
In the highly competitive luxury midsize SUV segment, the Q7 still stands out with its excellent overall quality, ranking high in our list. As a seven-seater SUV, the Q7's three-row seating layout caters to the needs of large families. The interior is well-designed, and the seat comfort is generally good, although the third row is a little cramped, which is more suitable for children.
While the Q7 is commendable in terms of performance and luxury, it's not perfect. First of all, its fuel economy is below the average for its class, which may lose points in today's energy-efficient and environmentally friendly market. Secondly, the luggage compartment volume is slightly insufficient compared to some competitors. In addition, Audi's latest MMI touchscreen infotainment system, while full of technology, may require some users to get used to it.
The Q7 is a fairly well-balanced luxury midsize SUV. It perfectly embodies Audi's design philosophy: restrained yet luxurious, understated with quality. In terms of driving experience, the Q7 shows good sports potential, especially when equipped with air suspension and four-wheel steering, it is large and agile. The quattro all-wheel drive system ensures excellent performance in all road conditions.
However, the five-year depreciation rate of 56.8% is undoubtedly a major pain point in Q7. This may reflect the fierce competition in the luxury SUV market, or it may hint at consumers' pursuit of new technologies and designs. For those buyers who value value retention, Q7 may not be the best choice. But for consumers who want to own a German SUV that combines practicality, luxury and driving pleasure, especially in the second-hand market, the Q7 is undoubtedly an attractive option.
Overall, if you can accept its high fuel consumption and faster depreciation rate, the Q7 is definitely an option worth considering. Especially for those who prefer a restrained luxury style and don't want to sacrifice driving pleasure, the Q7 may be the perfect balance.
Cadillac Escalade
Five-year depreciation rate: 56.5%
Ranking of the fastest-deprecating cars in 2024
Although the Escalade tops our list of luxury large SUVs and is one of the best options in its class, it's certainly an oil tiger. With a below-average EPA fuel efficiency rating, this American hunk requires constant "sacrifices" at the gas station. What's even more staggering is that while you're constantly "gassing" it, it's depreciating at an alarming rate.
If you decide to get your hands on the Escalade, you'll be in for a top-notch ride. It can comfortably accommodate up to 8 passengers, with sophisticated interior materials and state-of-the-art technology. What's particularly striking is that, despite its size, the Escalade feels surprisingly easy to drive. With its abundant power output, good handling performance and smooth ride, it is almost forgotten that it is a behemoth weighing nearly 3 tons.
The Escalade is the epitome of American luxury: atmospheric, luxurious, and eclectic. Its 6.2-litre V8 naturally aspirated engine or 3.0-litre inline-six diesel both deliver satisfying power performance. The latest generation of Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving system adds a sense of technology and convenience to long-distance travel. However, these advantages do not seem to be enough to offset its staggering rate of depreciation.
A five-year depreciation rate of 56.5% means that a brand new Escalade may be less than half its value after five years. This may reflect fierce competition in the luxury large SUV market, or it may hint at the growing consumer focus on fuel efficiency. For those buyers who value value retention, the Escalade may not be the best choice.
However, the Escalade remains an attractive option for those who are looking for the ultimate American luxury experience and don't care much about fuel consumption and value retention. Especially in the second-hand market, it still sounds tempting to get a still glamorous American luxury flagship SUV for less than half the original price.
Overall, the Escalade is a car with a strong personality. Its advantages are as obvious as the disadvantages, and choosing it is more of a lifestyle choice than a purely rational decision. If you can accept its fuel consumption and depreciation rate, then it will definitely give you a different driving experience.
Audi A6
Five-year depreciation rate: 56.3%
Ranking of the fastest-deprecating cars in 2024
Despite the impressively high depreciation rate, the A6 still ranks high in our list of luxury mid-size cars with its excellent overall quality. This car is the perfect embodiment of the art of balancing luxury and performance. The 2024 model has undergone a mid-life facelift, with a sharper exterior design and a comprehensive upgrade of standard equipment and options. Whether you choose a traditional sedan or an Avant Tour, the A6 offers a pleasant driving experience.
In terms of powertrain, the A6 offers a variety of options, from 2.0T to 3.0T, to the performance version of the S6 and RS6, covering the needs of almost all market segments. Whether you're looking for a comfortable and luxurious commuter, a performance toy to hit the track on the weekend, or a high-performance station wagon that can meet the needs of the whole family without sacrificing driving pleasure, the A6 has something for everyone.
The A6 is a fairly well-balanced product. Its interior design and material quality are exemplary in its class, and the dual-screen MMI infotainment system requires a certain adaptation period, but it undoubtedly adds a sense of technology and futurism to the car. In terms of driving quality, the A6 embodies Audi's traditions: precise steering, excellent chassis tuning and the quattro all-wheel drive system make this luxury sedan comfortable to handle all kinds of road conditions.
However, the five-year depreciation rate of 56.3% is truly staggering. This may reflect fierce competition in the luxury car market, or it may hint at consumers' pursuit of new technologies and designs. For those buyers who value value retention, the A6 may not be the best choice. But for consumers who want to experience the best German craftsmanship and driving pleasure, especially in the second-hand market, the A6 is undoubtedly an attractive option.
Overall, if you're okay with its faster depreciation rate, the A6 is definitely an option worth considering. Especially for those who are looking for luxury without sacrificing driving pleasure, the A6 may be the perfect balance. And, considering its wide range of power options and body styles, the A6 series can meet the needs of almost all market segments, which is also rare in the luxury midsize car market.
Overall observations:
- German luxury brands, especially Audi, account for a large proportion of models with a high depreciation rate.
- Most of the models, despite their high depreciation rates, do not rank low in their respective segments, indicating that the initial selling price may be on the high side.
- A high depreciation rate does not mean that the vehicle is of poor quality, and many models still have excellent performance and luxury.
- For consumers, these models may be a good choice in the second-hand market.
- The high depreciation rate may reflect the fierce competition in the luxury car market and consumers' pursuit of new technologies.