When purchasing a new SUV, it’s not just about the upfront cost or the features—it’s also about how much value the vehicle retains over time. Toyota has long been known for excellent resale value, but how do its two top contenders—the Toyota Corolla Cross vs RAV4—compare in this regard? Let’s dive into the resale value, depreciation trends, and what makes each SUV a solid investment.
Toyota's Reputation for Resale
Both the Toyota Corolla Cross and the Toyota RAV4 benefit from Toyota’s legendary reliability, which plays a major role in strong resale values. Whether you're selling or trading in your vehicle after a few years, choosing a Toyota generally means getting more of your money back compared to other brands.
Corolla Cross: Value in the Compact Segment
The Corolla Cross, being newer to the market (introduced globally in recent years), already shows signs of maintaining solid resale value in the compact crossover segment. Its affordability, fuel efficiency, and popularity with budget-conscious buyers contribute to this trend.
Buyers appreciate the Corolla Cross for being easy to maintain and for its low cost of ownership. These factors make it an attractive option in the used car market, especially for first-time SUV buyers looking for a dependable but reasonably priced used vehicle.
RAV4: A Proven Champion of Resale
The Toyota RAV4 has long been one of the top performers when it comes to resale value. In fact, it consistently ranks among the best SUVs for long-term value retention. Thanks to its widespread popularity, especially in the hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants, used RAV4s are in high demand and tend to sell quickly at competitive prices.
The RAV4’s long-standing presence in the market gives it an edge over the newer Corolla Cross. Its reputation for performance, durability, and fuel economy—especially in hybrid trims—makes it a favorite among resale buyers.
Market Demand and Depreciation
In the Toyota Corolla Cross vs RAV4 discussion, the RAV4 typically depreciates more slowly, especially in the first five years. However, the Corolla Cross is catching up, and its lower initial cost helps offset the difference in depreciation.
Verdict: Which Has Better Resale Value?
If resale value is your top priority, the RAV4 holds the crown—especially if you’re buying a hybrid model. However, the Corolla Cross still offers great value, especially considering its lower price point and minimal depreciation for a compact SUV. In either case, you’re making a smart financial choice by choosing Toyota.