If there’s one type of car that’s dominated the automotive landscape in the past decade, it’s the SUV. As it became clear their popularity with consumers was rocketing, car makers rushed to make sure they’re offering as many off-road style variants as possible in as many sectors of the market as possible.
Now with such a wide choice available, one of the most important things to know, before you buy your next SUV, is which will lose the least money. Or to put it another way, which will cost the least to run in terms of depreciation.
And if you think that because you buy on a PCP or lease deal you don’t need to worry about depreciation, you’re only half right. Yes you’ll have fixed your costs, but those cars with the smallest depreciation figures usually have the smallest monthly payments.
To find out which SUVs hold their value best in three sectors, we’ve asked expert Mark Bulmer, senior valuations editor at car pricing firm Cap, for his top three picks in three sectors of the market.
Each of these cars is judged on their depreciation from new, after three-years and 30,000 miles of use.
Small SUVs
1. Suzuki Jimny
This car is a real 4×4 with real 4×4 looks. It can get you where you need to go in the most hazardous weather conditions. Simplicity seems to be the key for this car, it’s reliable and is not over complicated both when driving the car or in its construction. It also has a great driving position, which makes getting in and out of this vehicle easy. The car’s now been dropped from Suzuki’s line-up, but you may just be able to find one or two in the dealer network.
Our pick: 1.3 VVT SZ3 3dr
Depreciation prediction: £3,800
2. Dacia Duster
The car is very well put together and has a strong following from drivers who like great value for money. While buyers of this car are looking for great value for money they will still pay a little more for the higher specification models.
Our pick: 1.6 SCe 115 Access 5dr
Depreciation prediction: £4,500
3. If you like something different then this car will stand out for you. It’s hugely practical, for a small SUV, and very easy to drive, It’s also proven to be highly reliable. Automatic variants are always popular which helps them be very nimble when city driving.
Our pick: 1.2 Dualjet SZ3 5dr
Depreciation prediction: £4,600
Medium SUVs
1. MG ZS
MG’s ZS is a fantastically good value-for-money car. Not many have been sold, so some exclusivity may attract some customers. It is well put together and offers more car for your money than most.
Our pick: 1.5 VTi-TECH Explore 5dr
Depreciation prediction: £5,400
2. Volkswagen T-Roc
The T-Roc looks fantastic and has a quality feel. It’s not the cheapest car on the market but is a premium proposition in this size. The drive is comfortable and is well worth its place as a strong performer in today’s market.
Our pick: 1.0 TSI S 5dr
Depreciation prediction: £6,300
3. Ssangyong Tivoli
A slow burner, the SsangYong Tivoli has built up a good reputation. Build quality plus fit and finish on the car is really good and it has proven to be very reliable too. The seven-year 150,000 mile warranty also gives great peace of mind especially as a three year old second hand car still has four years’ warranty left.
Our pick: 1.6 SE 5dr
Depreciation prediction: £7,100
Large (seven-seat) SUVs
1. Peugeot 5008
The 5008 has evolved into an exceedingly good value car, with lots of up-to date technology on board and good selection of models in the range, allied with some highly efficient engines. The modern, fresh, look also makes this car stand out from the crowd. Lower volumes in the early part of this car’s life have also helped values hold up well in the used car market.
Our pick: 1.2 PureTech Active 5dr
Depreciation prediction: £9,100
2. Ssangyong Rexton
If you want an SUV that can tow and you don’t want to spend a lot of money, the Rexton is the one to pick. The strong chassis helps keep the vehicle very stable on uneven ground. Overall, this car looks good value for money and will be an attractive proposition for customers who want good towing capability allied to 4×4 grip and sensible pricing.
Our pick: 2.2 EX 5dr
Depreciation prediction: £9,500
3. Kia Sorento
The Sorento has established itself as a popular SUV over years in the used car market. It has proven to be reliable and its modest price tag makes it more affordable. Like other winners of this size of vehicle the Sorento makes a very good tow vehicle. The combination of a powerful engine and the ability to switch into four-wheel drive when needed makes it a sensible consideration if you need this capability on a moderate budget.
Our pick: 2.2 CRDi KX-1 5dr
Depreciation prediction: £14,500
Keyword: Top five SUVs that hold their value