Toyota RAV4 depreciation: when to buy & cost to own
Estimates as of June 2026.
The Toyota RAV4 (SUV, ~$30,000 new) loses about 36% of its value in five years — it holds value better than the 41.8% market average. Buying at 3 years old and holding five costs about $1,121/yr in depreciation versus $2,160/yr buying new — you keep 48.1% more of your money.
Value by age
| Age | Est. value | Total lost |
|---|---|---|
| New | $30,000 | 0% |
| 1 yr | $25,390 | 15.4% |
| 2 yr | $23,349 | 22.2% |
| 3 yr | $21,757 | 27.5% |
| 5 yr | $19,200 | 36% |
| 7 yr | $17,096 | 43% |
| 10 yr | $14,416 | 51.9% |
What will it cost you to own?
Buy price (est.)
$21,757
Resale (est.)
$16,151
Total depreciation
$5,606
Cost per year
$1,121
vs. buying new
$2,160/yr
Depreciation only — older cars cost more to maintain, so the practical sweet spot is ~3–5 years old. Figures are modeled estimates that vary by trim, condition, and market. How we estimate this →