Luxury vehicles represent the pinnacle of automotive style, bringing with them premium materials and advanced technology. However, this high-end experience often comes at a significant price, which can be a drawback for those looking at a car as an investment. Though a pleasurable driving experience can be enough for some, many buyers also evaluate a car’s worth based on its monetary value, and luxury cars are notorious for their rapid depreciation. Brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Maserati all offer models that excel in quality, refinement, and performance, but also top the lists when it comes to value loss. This trend is driven by factors such as high MSRPs, expensive maintenance, and, in some cases, less-than-stellar reliability. This article explores ten luxury cars that experience the greatest depreciation over a five-year period. The data used in this analysis comes from a variety of sources, including manufacturer data and information from iSeeCars, CarEdge, and RepairPal. The cars are ranked from highest to lowest five-year depreciation rates.
1. Maserati Quattroporte
Maserati offers sleek, exotic cars with a distinctive Italian flair. Nevertheless, models like the Quattroporte struggle with value retention, earning the top spot in the “Top 25 Vehicles With the Highest 5-Year Depreciation” ranking by iSeeCars. This is largely due to a high MSRP combined with the brand’s historical issues with cabin quality and reliability.
- 5-Year Depreciation: 64.5%
Performance Specifications
- Engine: Twin-Turbo 3.0-Liter V-6
- Transmission: 8-Speed Auto
- Horsepower: 424
- Torque: 406 Lb.-Ft.
- Driveline: AWD
- 0-60 MPH: 4.3 Seconds
- Top Speed: 179 MPH
The latest Maserati Quattroporte comes in a single, well-appointed Modena Ultima trim. The starting MSRP is $139,000 and features heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a Harman Kardon sound system, GPS, Apple and Android compatibility, and large interior screens. However, the Quattroporte still struggles to compete with rivals like the BMW 7 Series, Porsche Panamera, and Genesis G90, in part because Maserati discontinued the Ferrari-derived V-8 engine after the 2023 model year.
Pros:
- Sleek, exotic styling
- Respectable performance
- Ample standard features
Cons:
- Expensive single trim
- Six-figure starting MSRP
- Expensive maintenance
2. BMW 7 Series
The BMW 7 Series is a premier example of a flagship luxury sedan, combining advanced technology with a premium driving experience. While the starting MSRP stays below six figures, it quickly exceeds $100,000 with options and trim upgrades. Along with this price, the 7 Series’ accelerated depreciation is compounded by BMW’s reliability record, resulting in a high cost of ownership.
- 5-Year Depreciation: 61.8%
Performance Specifications
- (740i) Engine: Turbocharged 3.0-Liter 6-Cylinder
- (750e) Engine: Turbocharged 3.0-Liter 6-Cylinder PHEV
- (760i) Engine: Turbocharged 4.4-Liter V-8
- Transmission: 8-Speed Auto
- (740i) Horsepower: 375
- (750e) Horsepower: 483
- (760i) Horsepower: 536
- (740i) Torque: 398 Lb.-Ft.
- (750e) Torque: 516 Lb.-Ft.
- (760i) Torque: 553 Lb.-Ft.
- Driveline: RWD or AWD
- 0-60 MPH:
- 740i: 5.2 Seconds
- 750e: 4.6 Seconds
- 760i: 3.5 Seconds
- Top Speed: 155 MPH
The BMW 7-Series can be configured with three powertrains: the 740i, 750e xDrive, and 760i xDrive. Standard features like leather upholstery, ambient lighting, heated front and rear seats, wireless connectivity, a heads-up display, and more, are shared across all models. Ventilated seats are standard on the top-tier 760i xDrive. Buyers can customize their 7 Series with M Sport packages and an optional 36-speaker sound system.
Pros:
- Excellent performance
- Top-tier cabin tech and materials
- Customization options
Cons:
- Expensive to buy and maintain
- Many driver-assist features are optional
3. Maserati Ghibli
The Maserati Ghibli shares the same fate as the Quattroporte, hindered by a high MSRP, a less-than-premium cabin and a history of reliability concerns. When considering its rivals used, an aging Ghibli can be a bargain, priced around $20,000 to $30,000, reflecting a significant drop from its original six-figure MSRP. KBB data lists the Ghibli as having the lowest resale value in its class.
- 5-Year Depreciation: 61.3%
Performance Specifications
- Engine: Turbocharged 3.0-Liter V-6 or 3.8-Liter V-8
- Transmission: 8-Speed Auto
- Horsepower: 345–424 or 580
- Torque: 369–428 Lb.-Ft. or 538 Lb.-Ft.
- Driveline: RWD or AWD (Modena)
- 0-60 MPH: 4.7–5.5 Seconds or 4.0 Seconds
- Top Speed: 166–178 MPH or 203 MPH
The Ghibli’s exterior design conveys high-end Italian refinement, while the cabin features have received criticism for their lesser quality. Parts sharing and fit and finish issues lead to underwhelming cabin experiences. Still, standard features in the base GT trim include leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, heated front seats and steering wheel, wireless device connectivity, and driver assistance systems.
Pros:
- Plenty of standard features.
- Respectable road ability.
- Exotic Italian design.
Cons:
- High MSRP and reliability issues.
- Cabin features feel subpar.
- Tight rear seat access.
4. Jaguar XF
The Jaguar XF embodies British luxury, with a confident design. However, the XF struggles with value retention due to typical luxury car challenges and a perceived lack of brand distinctiveness compared to its German rivals. The Jaguar XF can be found at a significant discount on the used market.
- 5-Year Depreciation: 57.6%
Performance Specifications
- Engine: Turbocharged 2.0-Liter 4-Cylinder
- Transmission: 8-Speed Auto
- (P250) Horsepower: 246
- (P300) Horsepower: 296
- (P250) Torque: 269 Lb.-Ft.
- (P300) Torque: 295 Lb.-Ft.
- Driveline: RWD or AWD
- 0-60 MPH: 6.5 Seconds or 5.8 Seconds
- Top Speed: 155 MPH
The Jaguar XF comes in two variations: the P250 and P300, both with the same feature set, except the P300 gets AWD and an interior upgrade. Standard features include leather upholstery, wireless device connectivity, GPS, large interior screens, ambient lighting, and driver assistance features. Buyers can customize the XF with options like a Dynamic package and a trunk lid spoiler.
Pros:
- Great used bargain.
- Customization options.
- Comfortable seating.
Cons:
- Performance not competitive with sports cars
- Somewhat bland styling
- Low resale value.
5. Audi A7
The Audi A7 is a sportier version of the A6, distinguished by its sloping roofline. Audi models, however, aren’t known for holding their value and are also affected by their reliability, high maintenance costs, and high MSRPs. A slightly used A7 may be the financially rewarding route, losing up to 45.5 percent of its value after three years, followed by 57.2 percent after five years of ownership. This makes the A7 a compelling choice for luxury sports car fans, considering its standard turbo V-6, dual-clutch auto transmission, and Quattro AWD give drivers an engaging experience every time.
- 5-Year Depreciation: 57.2%
Performance Specifications
- Engine: Turbocharged 3.0-Liter V-6
- Transmission: 7-Speed Auto
- Horsepower: 335
- Torque: 369 Lb.-Ft.
- Driveline: AWD
- 0-60 MPH: 5.2 Seconds
- Top Speed: 130 MPH
The A7 has three trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige, all sharing a single powertrain. Standard features include leather upholstery, heated front seats, three-zone climate control, dual-screen infotainment, smartphone connectivity, and a handful of driver aids. Upgrading unlocks features like advanced driver assistance, a heads-up display, heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats and heated rear seats. Numerous upgrade packages are also available, making customization the most important feature.
Pros:
- Sleek, aggressive styling
- Hatchback design increases utility
- Noteworthy handling and performance
Cons:
- Expensive to buy and maintain.
- Sloping roofline impedes headroom and visibility.
- Audi reliability is inconsistent.
6. Audi A6
The Audi A6 closely resembles the A7 in terms of overall design, though it has a more traditional, less sloping roofline. This design gives more headroom and visibility, at the expense of cargo space, especially compared to the A7. The A6 remains a solid luxury sedan thanks to its refined road ability, well-equipped trims, and sophisticated style. However, the A6 loses its value quickly, due to its high MSRP, annual maintenance costs and reliability concerns.
- 5-Year Depreciation: 56.3%
Performance Specifications
- Engine: Turbocharged 2.0-Liter 4-Cylinder or Turbocharged 3.0-Liter V-6
- Transmission: 7-Speed Auto
- (2.0L) Horsepower: 261
- (3.0L) Horsepower: 335
- (2.0L) Torque: 273 Lb.-Ft.
- (3.0L) Torque: 369 Lb.-Ft.
- Driveline: AWD
- 0-60 MPH: 5.8 Seconds or 5.1 Seconds
- Top Speed: 130 MPH
The A6 has two engine options, each with three trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige. The base Premium trim includes key features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, large interior screens, wireless smartphone connectivity, GPS, and driver-assist features. Upgrading unlocks features like dual-pane acoustic glass, heated rear seats, massaging front seats, and more. Numerous packages and stand-alone features are available for all versions.
Pros:
- Great used discounts.
- Sleek, sophisticated design.
- Refined performance.
- More headroom and visibility than the A7.
Cons:
- Questionable reliability.
- Limited trunk space.
7. BMW 3-Series
The BMW 3 Series is a popular choice for its sporty, compact luxury. Its road manners provide a fun driving experience. While the price isn’t excessive, a lack of reliability and high repair expenses hinder its value retention. However, it remains a tempting option for fans of mid-size sports cars.
- 5-Year Depreciation: 56.2%
Performance Specifications
- Engine: Turbocharged 2.0-Liter 4-Cylinder or Turbocharged 3.0-Liter 6-Cylinder
- Transmission: 8-Speed Auto
- (2.0L) Horsepower: 255
- (3.0L) Horsepower: 386
- (2.0L) Torque: 295 Lb.-Ft.
- (3.0L) Torque: 369 Lb.-Ft.
- Driveline: RWD or AWD
- 0-60 MPH: 5.4 Seconds or 4.1 Seconds
- Top Speed: 155 MPH
Two models exist for the 3 Series: 330i and M340i. The 330i trim features three-zone climate control, synthetic leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats and mirrors, a curved display, and a range of driver-assist technologies. The M340i receives an aerodynamic body kit, M Sport suspension, a more powerful engine, and M-inspired cosmetic features. Many optional upgrade packages allow buyers to customize their 3 Series.
Pros:
- Significant customization possibilities.
- Sporty performance as standard.
- Refined road abilities and styling.
Cons:
- Questionable BMW reliability and high maintenance costs.
- Many driver-assist features and safety are optional.
8. Volvo S90
The Volvo S90 showcases Swedish luxury. That said, Volvo’s models aren’t always at the top of desirability. The S90 loses over half of its value in five years, with a significant projected value loss of approximately $35,365. With a starting MSRP of around $60,000, the S90 doesn’t leave much room for maintaining its value, leading to a notable decline even before the five-year mark. This situation creates attractive discounts on the used market, appealing to those who prioritize safety.
- 5-Year Depreciation: 55.8%
Performance Specifications
- Engine: Turbocharged 2.0-Liter 4-Cylinder or Turbocharged 2.0-Liter 4-Cylinder Plug-In Hybrid
- Transmission: 8-Speed Auto
- (2.0L) Horsepower: 295
- (Hybrid) Horsepower: 455
- (2.0L) Torque: 310 Lb.-Ft.
- (Hybrid) Torque: 523 Lb.-Ft.
- Driveline: AWD
- 0-60 MPH: 6.2 Seconds or 4.6 Seconds
- Top Speed: 113 MPH
The 2025 S90 offers two powertrains: a B6 and a T8, with the latter a plug-in hybrid. Each includes two trim levels, and the base Plus trim includes features such as four-zone climate control, leather upholstery, heated front and rear seats, Google-based assistance systems, and multiple driver assists and safety.
Pros:
- Many safety features.
- Sophisticated, clean style.
- Improved fuel economy.
Cons:
- Questionable reliability
- Limited trunk space.
- The gas-powered model has performance issues.
9. Mercedes-Benz S-Class
The S-Class is the peak of Mercedes-Benz’s luxury sedans, with nearly every high-end feature available. With a starting price surpassing $118,000, the S-Class struggles to thrive. However, the S-Class is valuable to those who know that luxury is rarely risk-free, as there are few on the market to match its opulent features. Similar to many high-end luxury cars, the S-Class depreciates rapidly, dropping over 40% after just three years. This creates an appealing used S-Class market, where top-spec, slightly used models can be found at over 30 percent off MSRP.
- 5-Year Depreciation: 55.7%
Performance Specifications
- (Base) Engine: Turbocharged 3.0-Liter 6-Cylinder
- (V8) Engine: Turbocharged 4.0-Liter V-8
- (PHEV) Engine: Turbocharged 3.0-Liter 6-Cylinder PHEV or Turbocharged 4.0-Liter V-8 PHEV
- Transmission: 9-Speed Auto
- (Base) Horsepower: 442
- (V8) Horsepower: 496
- (PHEV 6Cyl) Horsepower: 503
- (PHEV V8) Horsepower: 791
- (Base) Torque: 413 Lb.-Ft.
- (V8) Torque: 516 Lb.-Ft.
- (PHEV 6Cyl) Torque: 553 Lb.-Ft.
- (PHEV V8) Torque: 1,055 Lb.-Ft.
- Driveline: AWD
- 0-60 MPH: 4.5 Seconds or 4.3 Seconds or 4.8 Seconds or 3.3 Seconds
- Top Speed: 130 MPH (Limited)
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class comes well-equipped from the factory. The entry-level Luxury trim includes features such as leather upholstery, heated, ventilated, and massage front seats, wireless device charging and connectivity, adaptive air suspension, and a suite of driver assistance features. The Pinnacle trim and AMG variants include heated, ventilated, and massage rear seats, wireless charging in the back, rear-axle steering for the AMG, and a top-tier sound system.
Pros:
- Abundant luxury and convenience
- Elegant, stately design
- Impressive engine options
Cons:
- High purchase and maintenance costs.
- Mercedes-Benz’s reliability record
10. BMW 5 Series
The mid-size BMW 5 Series is one of BMW’s more adaptable models, as it brings enough room to seat adults, while still being small enough to be engaging for the driver. Its price is just below $60,000, but sedans aren’t in high demand, making the 5 series under-appreciated, and the not-so-great reliability records cause its resale value to fall quickly.
- 5-Year Depreciation: 55.3%
Performance Specifications
- Engine: Turbocharged 2.0-Liter 4-Cylinder or Turbocharged 3.0-Liter 6-Cylinder or Turbocharged 3.0-Liter 6-Cylinder PHEV
- Transmission: 8-Speed Auto
- (2.0L) Horsepower: 255
- (3.0L) Horsepower: 375
- (PHEV) Horsepower: 483
- (2.0L) Torque: 295 Lb.-Ft.
- (3.0L) Torque: 398 Lb.-Ft.
- (PHEV) Torque: 516 Lb.-Ft.
- Driveline: RWD or AWD
- 0-60 MPH: 5.8 Seconds or 4.4 Seconds or 4.1 Seconds
- Top Speed: 155 MPH
The latest 5 Series is available in four powertrain options: 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i xDrive, and 550e xDrive. All models receive synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats, a large infotainment display, GPS, a premium sound system, and driver-assistance features. Multiple optional packages allow customers to make the 5 series their own. However, these top-shelf features being optional might deter some buyers, even if they appreciate the price.
Pros:
- Adaptable sedan with many options
- Refined road ability
- Manageable starting price
Cons:
- Best features are optional
- Top-rated features increase the price substantially.
- BMW’s maintenance costs is higher than the industry average.
