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How Fast Do Hybrid Cars Lose Value?

Hybrid Depreciation Guide: How Much Value Do Hybrids Lose Over Time? | MotorVero

Hybrid Vehicle Depreciation: A Complete Guide to Smart Buying

best hybrid resale value

Key Insight: Hybrid vehicles typically retain 15-20% more value than comparable gas-only models after 3 years, with Toyota hybrids leading in resale value retention according to industry data.

As fuel prices fluctuate and environmental concerns grow, hybrid vehicles continue gaining popularity among cost-conscious and eco-aware drivers. Understanding hybrid depreciation patterns empowers buyers to make informed decisions when choosing between new and pre-owned options. This comprehensive analysis examines depreciation trends across popular hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, revealing where savvy shoppers can find the best values.

2016 Audi A4 Allroad Image
2016 Audi A4 Allroad

$11765

Gas

98864 mi

Very Good Deal   Very Good

0 (5)

2024 Acura MDX Image
2024 Acura MDX

$64030

Gas

45002 mi

Good Deal   Good

0 (5)

2025 BMW i4 xDrive40 Image
2025 BMW i4 xDrive40

$66295

electric

9 mi

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0 (5)


Understanding Hybrid Depreciation Trends

The hybrid vehicle market has expanded dramatically in recent years, with inventory growing over 290% since 2019. This surge in availability creates excellent opportunities for used hybrid buyers:

  • Average new hybrid price: $48,200
  • Average used hybrid price: $32,200 (33% savings)
  • 3-year-old hybrids retain: 71% of original value
  • 5-year-old hybrids retain: 55% of original value
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Hybrid vs. Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) Depreciation

While both vehicle types offer fuel savings, their depreciation curves differ significantly:

Traditional Hybrids

  • Lower initial purchase price
  • Slower depreciation rate
  • More model options available
  • 3-year retention: 71%

Plug-In Hybrids

  • Higher initial cost
  • Faster early depreciation
  • Greater fuel savings potential
  • 3-year retention: 50%

Depreciation Analysis of Top Hybrid Models

Toyota Prius: The Hybrid Benchmark

Toyota Prius depreciation

The iconic Prius continues setting the standard for hybrid value retention, benefiting from Toyota's reputation for reliability and the model's proven track record:

  • 2024 model: Retains 88% of 2025 value
  • 2022 model: Retains 67% (average $23,364)
  • 2018 model: Retains 49%
  • 2013 model: Retains 38%

The redesigned 2023+ Prius models command premium pricing due to improved styling and performance, creating particularly attractive values for pre-2023 examples.

2024 Lexus GX 550 Image
2024 Lexus GX 550

$72986

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3 mi

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0 (5)

Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 450 RWD Image
Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 450 RWD

$61488

diesel

54487 mi

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0 (5)

2014 Cadillac ATS Image
2014 Cadillac ATS

$19499

Gas

72889 mi

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0 (5)


Honda Accord Hybrid: Stealthy Efficiency

plug-in hybrid savings

The Accord Hybrid appeals to buyers seeking fuel efficiency without unconventional styling. Its depreciation pattern reflects Honda's strong reputation:

  • 2024 model: 94% of 2025 value
  • 2022 model: 72% (notable 22% drop from 2023)
  • 2018 model: 53%
  • 2014 model: 37%

Current-generation (2023+) models show slightly better retention than previous iterations, making 2018-2022 models particularly good values.

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: SUV Value Leader

RAV4 Hybrid used prices

As one of the best-selling hybrid SUVs, the RAV4 Hybrid demonstrates exceptional value retention:

  • 2024 model: 97% of 2025 value
  • 2021 model: 75% ($7,260 savings vs new)
  • 2019 model: 67% ($12,992 savings)
  • 2016 model: 48%

The RAV4 Hybrid's combination of utility, efficiency, and Toyota reliability makes it one of the slowest-depreciating hybrids on the market.

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Hyundai Sonata Hybrid: Budget-Friendly Option

 PHEV value retention

The Sonata Hybrid offers more aggressive depreciation, creating opportunities for bargain hunters:

  • 2022 model: 61% of 2025 value
  • 2020 model: 50% ($18,778 average)
  • 2016 model: 32%
  • 2013 model: Below $10,000

Plug-In Hybrid Depreciation Patterns

PHEVs typically experience steeper depreciation than conventional hybrids, though some models buck this trend:

Jeep Wrangler 4xe: Off-Road PHEV Pioneer

 PHEV value retention

The Wrangler 4xe's unique positioning results in unusual depreciation for a PHEV:

  • 2024 model: 85% of 2025 value
  • 2022 model: 65%
  • 2021 model: 56%

Jeep's strong brand loyalty and the 4xe's capabilities help it retain value better than most PHEVs.

2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia Image
2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia

$27697

Gas

28912 mi

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0 (5)

Chrysler Pacifica Touring L FWD Image
Chrysler Pacifica Touring L FWD

$19375

Gas

93184 mi

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0 (5)

Mercedes Benz EQE Image
Mercedes Benz EQE

$102310

electric

12 mi mi

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0 (5)


Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid: Family Hauler Value

best hybrid resale value

The Pacifica Hybrid shows relatively strong retention for a PHEV minivan:

  • 2024 model: 75% of 2025 value
  • 2022 model: 50%
  • 2017 model: 41%

Smart Strategies for Hybrid Buyers

Maximize your savings with these research-backed purchasing approaches:

  1. Target 3-5 year-old models - Balance modern features with significant savings (typically 25-40% off new prices)
  2. Consider certified pre-owned (CPO) - Many hybrids qualify for extended warranty coverage
  3. Research battery replacement costs - Factor potential future expenses into total ownership costs
  4. Compare fuel savings - Calculate whether a newer, more efficient model justifies its higher price
  5. Monitor market trends - Tariffs and fuel prices can impact hybrid values

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Pro Tip: The sweet spot for hybrid value is typically 2-4 years old, when vehicles have absorbed the steepest depreciation but still have most of their useful life remaining.

Future Outlook for Hybrid Values

Several factors suggest hybrid depreciation rates may slow in coming years:

  • Growing demand from buyers not ready for full EVs
  • Tighter emissions regulations increasing hybrid appeal
  • Improved battery longevity reducing replacement concerns
  • Manufacturer focus on hybrid development over pure ICE vehicles

As automotive technology evolves, hybrids continue offering a practical balance of efficiency, convenience, and value that appeals to a broad range of buyers. Understanding these depreciation patterns helps consumers make informed decisions in an increasingly complex vehicle market.

2020 Acura ILX Image
2020 Acura ILX

$22400

Gas

31702 mi

Good Deal   Good

5 (5)

Audi e-tron GT Image
Audi e-tron GT

$15773427

electric

54466 mi

Fair Deal   Fair

0 (5)

2016 Buick Cascada Image
2016 Buick Cascada

$12243

Gas

77700 mi

Good Deal   Good

1 (5)


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Last Updated On Apr, 12-2025

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