Best Sedans Under $30,000 by Resale Value (Least Depreciation)

Of the 71 Sedans under $30,000 VINdown tracks, the average holds about 53% of its value after five years. The Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen leads at 80% retained, while the Mitsubishi Mirage G4 depreciates hardest at 27%. Ranked best-to-worst by five-year resale value:

1. Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen — 80% retained, from $18,590 new
2. Kia Forte5 — 78% retained, from $13,988 new
3. Nissan Altima — 74% retained, from $20,805 new
4. Nissan Sentra — 74% retained, from $20,608 new
5. Mazda Mazda3 — 74% retained, from $24,700 new
6. Hyundai Sonata — 72% retained, from $23,995 new
7. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution — 72% retained, from $27,750 new
8. Kia Optima Hybrid — 72% retained, from $18,170 new
9. Honda Civic — 71% retained, from $26,883 new
10. Honda Accord — 70% retained, from $29,828 new

Sedans at other budgets:

• Under $40,000
• Under $50,000

Related categories under $30,000:

• Cars Under $30,000
• Luxury Cars Under $30,000
• SUVs Under $30,000
• Sports Cars Under $30,000

All prices: Best Sedans by resale value