It is often overlooked when people consider which vehicle to purchase. While other costs associated with running, such as fuel usage and road tax, maintenance, and fuel, are essential, they seldom amount to nearly as much as the value of a new car decreases in its first couple of years. Depreciation isn't always negative; however, when you purchase pre-owned and carefully choose your options, it could help you obtain many cars for the budget. Be aware that a car that is losing some value initially will continue to appreciate more quickly than other models.
BMW X3
In 2015, the BMW X3 was the only SUV on this list; however, there was more than one BMW. Although the luxury compact SUVs continue to increase in popularity, BMWs still have high maintenance costs that can make some people avoid buying used cars. X3 has been a finalist in the U.S. News 2015 Best Luxury Compact SUV for Families award. It also received extremely high security and reliability predictions. However, the cost of ownership over five years was a bit higher than average due to maintenance costs. The X3's price starting point when first introduced in 2015 was just $38,500, with the highest trim priced at $45,500. This does not include any options that could be added. However, the value of the SUV has declined by two-thirds in the time since its launch and a difference of over $30,000 for the most expensive trims.
Lincoln MKZ
In 2015, the Lincoln MKZ landed at the lowest of our rankings for high-end midsize cars. When premium manufacturers were introducing sophisticated infotainment systems, the MKZ was an inefficient and complex system. The interior was not as sophisticated for a high-end car; however, it had outstanding security and predicted reliability scores. When it was first introduced in 2015, the MKZ offered a price of $35,190. The highest trim is priced at $47,495. With a depreciation rate of 67.1 percent over the past five years, the cost has decreased to an average value of over $30,000. Additionally, it is an uninspiring luxury vehicle when it's brand new; it's also a struggle like most vehicles on this list in being an entry-level sedan. The majority of buyers in 2021 seek SUVs that can be used for multiple purposes.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
This year's Mercedes-Benz S-Class is part of an extensive line of high-end cars that have been the mainstay of the Mercedes-Benz brand. The S-Class comes with the latest technology at the time, and its interior sets the standard for the highest quality. Multiple powertrains were available in 2015, as well as two standard 12.3-inch displays and an internet hot spot. However, the ownership costs were among the highest in the class that's already expensive. The price of the S-Class in 2015 was almost six figures at $94,400. The top trims that came with AMG tuning easily reached $200,000. A drop of 67% in the course of five years equals around $80,000.
Maserati Ghibli
This year's Maserati upholds brand's fame for its stunning Italian design also strong engines. The four-door car can reach zero up to 60mph in just five seconds. Interior is adorned with premium materials that can be upgraded or modified to fit your tastes and budget. An 8.4-inch touchscreen was standard, as were USB ports and Bluetooth, which were brand new for the model year.
Ghibli is Maserati's entry-level, midsize luxury car and has a price starting at $70,000 in 2015. The 69% decline over five years is largely due to competitors. The Ghibli was a great car in all aspects; however, its competitors, such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz, frequently did better for the price and with more lavish interiors and more dynamic performance for its class.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
In 2015, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class was as luxurious as expected from a luxury midsize car. The car was one of the finalists in the Best Midsize Car for Families award in 2015. Best Upscale Midsize Car for Families award, since certain models offered spacious rear and front seats and the COMAND information system. There were numerous variations of the E-Class concept, including four models (sedan wagon, coupe, and cabriolet), five different powertrain options, and three tuned models by AMG. However, the cost of owning the E-Class over five years is much higher than the typical for this class. Because of all these options, the initial cost ranges from $51,800 to $103,200. As a luxury vehicle, it's susceptible to a steep decline implies that the E-Class is averaging a 69% decrease in value over five years.
