Car values have been on quite the rollercoaster ride lately, with some models experiencing significant depreciation over the past year. If you’re in the market for a used car or simply curious about the shifting landscape of vehicle values, it’s essential to know which cars are losing their worth the fastest. Let’s dive into the details of the biggest losers in the used car market.
What Cars Are Losing Value the Most?
According to a recent analysis by iSeeCars, the Tesla Model S tops the list of used cars with the steepest depreciation, losing an average of 17.2% of its value in just one year. This translates to a staggering $9,944 drop, bringing the average listing price down to $47,931 as of March 2025. This decline isn’t entirely surprising; the Model S has been around for over a decade, and Tesla has faced various public relations challenges recently, which may have contributed to the drop in demand.
Following closely behind is the Porsche Taycan, which saw an average depreciation of $13,422, or about 15.1%. Other notable mentions include the Ford Explorer Hybrid, which dropped 14.1% to an average price of $31,228, and the BMW 5-Series Hybrid, which decreased by 13.9% to $34,375. The Tesla Model Y and Model 3 also made the list, with price drops of 13.1% and 10.9%, respectively.
Here’s a quick look at the cars that have taken the biggest hits in value:
| Model | Avg. Price (Mar 2025) | Diff YoY | Diff YoY (%) |
|———————–|———————–|————–|————–|
| Tesla Model S | $47,931 | -$9,944 | -17.2% |
| Porsche Taycan | $75,407 | -$13,422 | -15.1% |
| Ford Explorer Hybrid | $31,228 | -$5,136 | -14.1% |
| BMW 5 Hybrid | $34,375 | -$5,557 | -13.9% |
| Tesla Model Y | $30,611 | -$4,634 | -13.1% |
| Maserati Levante | $45,413 | -$5,898 | -11.5% |
| Mercedes-AMG GT | $78,676 | -$9,808 | -11.1% |
| Tesla Model 3 | $26,084 | -$3,193 | -10.9% |
| Jeep Gladiator | $34,136 | -$4,089 | -10.7% |
| Hyundai Kona EV | $20,678 | -$2,462 | -10.6% |
Why Are These Cars Depreciating So Quickly?
The reasons behind this depreciation can be multifaceted. For Tesla, the price cuts on new models have had a domino effect on the used market. As new Teslas become more affordable, the value of older models inevitably declines. Karl Brauer, an executive analyst at iSeeCars, noted that this trend has been ongoing for over two years, driven by Tesla’s need to maintain sales growth. However, the strategy backfired when the company experienced its first decline in annual sales last year.
Other brands, like Chrysler and Maserati, are also feeling the pinch. Chrysler’s used vehicles saw an 8.9% drop in value, while Maserati’s models depreciated by 8.6%. This trend isn’t limited to luxury brands; mainstream vehicles are also experiencing significant declines.
What Can Buyers Expect?
For potential buyers, this depreciation presents a unique opportunity. With prices dropping, it might be the perfect time to snag a deal on a used car, especially if you’re eyeing one of the models listed above. However, it’s crucial to do your homework. Understanding the market dynamics and the reasons behind a vehicle’s depreciation can help you make an informed decision.
If you’re considering a used Tesla, for instance, weigh the benefits of its electric technology against the potential for further depreciation. Similarly, while a luxury brand like Porsche may offer a premium driving experience, the rapid value loss could impact your investment.
The big takeaway? Understanding the used car market isn’t just about finding the best deal—it’s about making smarter choices based on current trends. So, if you’re in the market for a used vehicle, keep an eye on these depreciation trends. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.