As of 2026, the luxury car market continues robust growth globally and in the U.S., projected at 7.4 percent compound annual growth rate through 2035 despite high costs, an increased focus on electrification, and rising global wealth. While some segments face ownership cost challenges, demand remains strong with stable luxury loyalty.Luxury are typically terrible at holding their value, more than any other segment. This is because they are much more expensive to maintain after the manufacturer warranty lapses. These sedans are typically more appealing to purchase used, but they do come with their own set of challenges, including drastic value losses and high running costs. If it is a used luxury car that you must have, these are the best options that you can consider when looking at long-term value retention.The models in this list have been extensively researched to ensure the most accurate information possible as of the time of publishing. Models are listed in ascending order from worst to best depreciation. 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Five-Year Resale Value: 40.5 Percent Mercedes-Benz The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is admittedly one of the poorest performing luxury sedans in the segment, but it still makes the list because there are sedans that depreciate far more drastically. According to iSeeCars, the S-Class retains a 40.5 percent resale value after five years. Edmunds indicates that the S580 sedan will lose an estimated $34,835 in value over the first five years. These models currently sell for $50,018 to $110,634, which includes AMG and Maybach models. Mercedes-Benz S-Class Reliability Mercedes-BenzThe 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan earns a 4.8/5 reliability rating from Kelley Blue Book users, though early production models face several issues. RepairPal notes an average annual maintenance cost of approximately $1,076, with common mechanical vulnerabilities including 48-volt mild-hybrid system failures, transmission hesitation, and leaking Airmatic suspension struts.NHTSA records for 2021 are extensive, featuring critical recalls for rupturing front brake hoses, an improperly sealed bulkhead that allows water intrusion into the footwells risking short circuits, and software glitches that can disable rear signaling lights or the rearview camera. Additionally, the V-8-powered S580 faces recalls for engine control software that may cause stalling or overheating. Electronic black screen events on the massive MBUX display and parasitic battery drain are also frequent owner complaints. Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $1,076 (RepairPal) Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $12,901 (CarEdge) Total Recalls: 18 Worst Year To Buy Used: 2003 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS Five-Year Resale Value: 41.8 Percent Pinterest The 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS experiences significant value loss as well. According to iSeeCars, the CLS is projected to retain 41.8 percent of its value over five years. Edmunds highlights that the CLS 450's five-year depreciation sits at an estimated $19,323. For the AMG CLS 53, that dollar-amount loss climbs to nearly $26,000, which is a typical performance for the brand's specialized AMG variants. Mercedes-Benz CLS Reliability Mercedes-BenzThe 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS maintains high owner satisfaction with a Kelley Blue Book consumer rating of 4.7/5, though it faces several technical hurdles. RepairPal data indicates average annual repair costs around $908, with common mechanical vulnerabilities including Airmatic suspension leaks, rapid tire wear on staggered-wheel setups, and 48-volt mild-hybrid system glitches.NHTSA records show extensive recalls for the 2021 model year, most notably for a mismounted 48-volt ground cable and a misrouted transmission wiring harness, both of which pose significant fire risks. Other critical safety recalls involve a software error that prevents the rearview camera from displaying, loose side-impact crash sensors, and rear seat belt retractors that may fail to properly secure child seats. Owners also report occasional black screen events within the MBUX infotainment system. Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $1,076 (RepairPal) Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $11,322 (CarEdge) Total Recalls: 11 Worst Year To Buy Used: 2006 2021 Genesis G90 Five-Year Resale Value: 41.8 Percent GenesisAccording to iSeeCars, the 2021 Genesis G90 retains approximately 41.8 percent of its value over five years. Edmunds indicates that the Ultimate trim will lose a suggested $21,391 in depreciation over five years. Despite the high dollar-amount loss, its lower entry price and industry-leading warranty help mitigate the long-term financial impact. Genesis G90 Reliability Genesis The 2021 Genesis G90 is the second generation model of the moniker and earns an impressive 5/5 reliability rating from Kelley Blue Book consumer reviews, though expert ratings are slightly more conservative at 4.7/5. RepairPal estimates the brand's average annual maintenance at approximately $524, significantly lower than German competitors, though specific G90 components like AC condensers can cost upwards of $1,500.Mechanical concerns include owner reports of lugging or engine rattles at low RPMs and parasitic battery drain. NHTSA data reveals several critical recalls. This includes one for Savile Silver models where the paint's aluminum content causes radar interference and unintended braking, a fuel pump failure that can cause loss of power, and exploding seat belt pretensioners. Additionally, some units face recalls for software errors that cause the instrument panel to go blank. Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $524 (RepairPal) Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $8,161 (CarEdge) Total Recalls: 1 Worst Year To Buy Used: 2017 2020 Lincoln Continental Five-Year Resale Value: 43.6 Percent Lincoln The 2020 Lincoln Continental is the final model year for the brand's unfortunate attempt at reviving the iconic model line. Despite its demise, it holds value a bit better than most of its priamry German rivals.According to iSeeCars, the Continental retains 43.6 percent of its value over five years. Edmunds suggests that a Continental in Reserve trim will see a dollar-amount decline of anywhere between $32,000 to $35,000 over five years. Black Label trims can lose as much as $12,000 within a year. Lincoln Continental Reliability Mecum Auctions The 2020 Lincoln Continental earns high praise for its dependability, carrying a 4.7/5 reliability rating from Kelley Blue Book with 88 percent of owners recommending the sedan. RepairPal and long-term owner data point to specific mechanical risks, most notably internal water pump failures on V-6 models, which can leak coolant into the engine oil and cause catastrophic damage if not replaced proactively.Other common issues include air suspension leaks leading to compressor burnout, transmission clunks or harsh shifting, and parasitic battery drains. NHTSA records show significant recalls for a degraded rearview camera lens that becomes foggy over time, a subsequent software error that causes the backup display to go blank, and potential door latch failures that may cause doors to open while driving. Additionally, some models are subject to recalls for improperly secured seat belt buckle bolts and engine control software glitches. Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $879 (RepairPal) Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $10,934 (CarEdge) Total Recalls: 4 Worst Year To Buy Used: 2002 2020 Cadillac CT6 Five-Year Resale Value: 46.7 Percent Cadillac The 2020 Cadillac CT6 retains approximately 46.7 percent according to iSeeCars. The Edmunds True Cost to Own data highlights a sharper dollar-amount decline, particularly for Platinum model with the Blackwing V-8. In this case, you can expect a five-year depreciation hit of roughly $33,145. Lower trims like the 3.6-liter Luxury fare slightly better in total dollars but still saw values plummet by approximately $18,000 over the same period. Cadillac CT6 Reliability Cadillac The 2020 Cadillac CT6 earns a 4.2/5 reliability rating from Kelley Blue Book, with 80 percent of owners recommending it. Despite this, there are some significant mechanical risks. RepairPal and owner reports highlight persistent 10-speed transmission shudder and harsh shifting, particularly when cold.The NHTSA issued a major 2025 recall for the transmission, which can suffer internal damage leading to momentary wheel lock-up while driving. Other known issues include parasitic battery drain, coolant leaks from failing thermostats, and a specific recall for dealer-installed 20-inch wheels with incorrect TPMS sensors that fail to warn of low tire pressure. Owners also report occasional limp mode triggers and Super Cruise software glitches. Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $614 (RepairPal) Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $11,025 (CarEdge) Total Recalls: 3 Worst Year To Buy Used: 2016 2020 Acura RLX Five-Year Resale Value: 46.9 Percent Acura The 2020 Acura RLX retains its value better than most large luxury sedans, primarily thanks to the brand's strong reliability reputation. According to iSeeCars, you can expect the RLX to hold 46.9 percent of its value over five years. Edmunds estimates a total five-year depreciation of roughly $16,064 for the P-AWS trim and $20,057 for the Sport Hybrid. The hybrid's initial dollar loss is higher due to its premium MSRP, but both models benefit from a more stable used market sale price compared to European competitors. Acura RLX Reliability Acura The 2020 Acura RLXcontinues the brand's tradition of high durability with a 4.4/5 reliability rating from Kelley Blue Book. However, owner reviews frequently cite an outdated dual-screen infotainment system and rapid parasitic battery drain, which can leave the vehicle dead after just a few days of inactivity.RepairPal notes that while the average annual repair cost is a relatively low $471, owners should watch for cylinder misfires and transmission shuddering. According to the NHTSA, the 2020 RLX is part of a massive global recall for a faulty low-pressure fuel pump that can cause the engine to stall while driving. Additionally, some Sport Hybrid models have reported software glitches that trigger brakes may fail warnings, requiring dealer-level recalibration. Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $471 (RepairPal) Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $8,414 (CarEdge) Total Recalls: 1 Worst Year To Buy Used: 2014 2021 Cadillac CT6-V Five-Year Resale Value: 48.1 Percent Cadillac The 2021 Cadillac CT6-V consists of some carry-over models from the final 2020 production run. Due to their more exclusive nature, they hold their value a bit better than the non-performance model. According to iSeeCars, the CT6-V retains 48.1 percent of its value over five years.When looking at the dollar-amount, losses are substantial due to its high initial MSRP of $94,895. Edmunds estimates a total five-year depreciation hit of roughly $24,012 for pre-owned buyers, with the largest single-year drop occurring early on as it transitioned from a new flagship to a discontinued specialty model. Cadillac CT6-V Reliability Car Buzz The 2021 Cadillac CT6-V remains a rarity, as official production for the CT6 line in North America technically concluded with the 2020 model year; however, remaining inventory sold into 2021 shares its predecessor's reliability profile. Kelley Blue Book users award the V-Series a perfect 5/5 consumer rating, though some highlight the Blackwing engine's complexity and relatively rapid depreciation.RepairPal notes common mechanical frustrations, including transmission shuddering, coolant leaks, and failing A/C thermostats that can trigger a limp mode. Most critically, the NHTSA issued a major 2025 recall for the 10-speed transmission, which may suffer internal damage leading to momentary wheel lock-up. Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $1,100 (RepairPal) Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $14,000 (CarEdge) Total Recalls: 2 Worst Year To Buy Used: 2019 2021 Lexus LS 500 Five-Year Resale Value: 51.3 Percent LexusThe 2021 Lexus LS 500 stands as a value leader in the flagship luxury segment, boasting significantly better retention than its European rivals, even despite it being one of the least popular options. According to iSeeCars, the LS 500 holds 51.3 percent of its initial purchase value over five years, comfortably outperforming the luxury large car segment. Edmunds estimates a five-year depreciation hit of roughly $27,040 to $29,362 depending on the drivetrain and specification. Lexus LS 500 Reliability LexusThe 2021 Lexus LS 500 maintains the brand's reputation for durability, earning a high 4.8/5 reliability rating from Kelley Blue Book users. However, owners frequently report frustrations with the factory-equipped run-flat tires, which are prone to rapid wear and a harsh ride quality.RepairPal and owner data indicate occasional transmission hesitation and turbo lag from the V-6 engine, alongside rare reports of interior rattles or loose trim. According to the NHTSA, the 2021 model is subject to a significant recall regarding Electronic Stability Control software, which may fail to engage upon restarting, and another for improperly assembled passenger seats that can interfere with the airbag's occupant classification system. Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $900 (RepairPal) Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $6,661 (CarEdge) Total Recalls: 2 Worst Year To Buy Used: 2018 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe Five-Year Resale Value: 52.3 Percent Mercedes-Benz AGThe 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe is the final production year for this body style. Due to its higly despirable reputation and limited availability, it depreciates at a far less drastic rate when compared to its sedan counterpart. According to iSeeCars, the S-Class coupe holds 52.3 percent of its value over five years. Edmunds suggests that theS560 4Matic Coupe's five-year depreciation rate sits at $34,811, while the high-performance AMG S63 Coupe loses as much as $50,069 over the same period. Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe Reliability Mercedes-Benz AG The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe carries high consumer praise alongside specialized maintenance needs. Kelley Blue Book gives the AMG S 63 Coupe variant a strong 4.8/5 reliability rating, though experts note that its aging Comand infotainment system lacks the refinement of the newer MBUX software.RepairPal highlights common high-end mechanical risks, including pneumatic door lock failures and Airmatic suspension pump issues, with an average annual repair cost exceeding $1,200. NHTSA records for the 2021 range include critical recalls for faulty rearview camera displays and software errors that may unintentionally deactivate passenger airbags or disable rear signaling lights. Additionally, certain V-8 models face recalls for engine control software that could lead to stalling or overheating. Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $1,249 (RepairPal) Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $13,479 (CarEdge) Total Recalls: 4 Worst Year To Buy Used: 2015 2021 Porsche Panamera Five-Year Resale Value: 52.7 Percent Porsche The 2021 Porsche Panamera is a rare exception in the flagship luxury segment that outperforming its rivals in value retention. According to iSeeCars, the Panamera holds as much as 52.7 percent of its value over five years, reflecting a figure significantly better than the luxury large car average.Edmunds suggests that a standard Panamera 4S may see a five-year depreciation hit of roughly $35,731. Notably, high-performance trims like the Turbo S and specialized Sport Turismo often command even stronger resale values due to their relative rarity and high enthusiast demand. Porsche Panamera Reliability Porsche The 2021Porsche Panamera range maintains high consumer sentiment, but specific reliability concerns persist. Kelley Blue Book reports a strong 4.6/5 reliability rating from owners, though some highlight hybrid system faults and rapid depreciation. RepairPal identifies common mechanical issues, including coolant leaks from water pumps, failing thermostats, and transmission shifting irregularities.NHTSA data confirms significant safety recalls, notably for an external coolant pump that can short-circuit and cause fires, improperly forged front lower trailing arms prone to breaking, and defective seat belt locking retractors. While performance remains a hallmark, these electronic and structural vulnerabilities necessitate diligent maintenance. Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $1,252 (RepairPal) Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $16,531 (CarEdge) Total Recalls: 3 Worst Year To Buy Used: 2011
