The Toyota Tacoma: A Resale Champion, But at What Cost?
Depreciation is an inevitable part of car ownership, but some vehicles hold their value better than others. And the 2021 Toyota Tacoma is a prime example of a pickup truck that's defying the odds. But here's where it gets controversial...
While most cars lose a significant chunk of their value over time, the Tacoma is a real standout. According to KBB, it's the new car that retains its value the best after five years. But why is this the case? Let's dive in and uncover the secrets behind the Tacoma's impressive resale performance.
The Tacoma's strong off-road capabilities, refined ride, and optional manual transmission are certainly appealing features. However, it's the truck's reputation for reliability that truly sets it apart. This reputation ensures that the Tacoma remains desirable, even as it ages.
CarEdge estimates that a new Tacoma will only depreciate by 22% after five years, leaving owners with a retained value of 78%. That's an impressive figure, especially when you consider the average annual mileage of 13,500. And for the 2021 model, the numbers are even more favorable.
According to CarEdge, the 2021 Tacoma has only lost around 21% of its original price, making it a top seller even five years later. But here's the catch: different Tacoma trims depreciate at different rates. Let's explore the data and find out which trims are the real winners.
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma: A Five-Year Depreciation Breakdown
Depending on the trim level, a 2021 Tacoma Crew Cab can depreciate anywhere from 22% to 28% of its original purchase price. The base SR Tacoma and TRD Off-Road models with the 5-foot short bed are the stars here, losing only 22% of their initial value.
The 6-foot-bed TRD Off-Road model, while still impressive, depreciates slightly more, at around 25%. But if you're looking for a vehicle that retains its value exceptionally well, the 6-foot-bed TRD Sport is a top choice. With a depreciation rate of just 22%, it joins the elite category of the best-performing Tacoma models.
The 6-foot-bed SR5 is another solid option, with a 77% value retention and a 23% depreciation rate. The 5-foot-bed TRD Sport, 6-foot-bed Tacoma Limited, and 5-foot-bed Limited all depreciate at slightly higher rates, but the real surprise is the range-topping TRD Pro. It currently holds the last place among the crew cab Tacoma models, with a five-year depreciation of 28%.
The Tacoma vs. the Competition: A Midsize Pickup Truck Showdown
The 2021 Tacoma's depreciation performance is impressive, but how does it stack up against its rivals? Well, it compares favorably with major competitors like the Jeep Wrangler, Honda Ridgeline, Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, and Nissan Frontier.
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler is the top performer among these, retaining around 71% of its value after five years. This is no surprise, as the Wrangler has consistently been known for its minimal depreciation over the years. Even the 2020 model holds its value exceptionally well, losing only 29% after five years.
But the Tacoma isn't alone in the resale value category. The Ford Ranger, with a resale retention of 72%, is another strong contender. The Honda Ridgeline, GMC Canyon, and Nissan Frontier also impress with depreciation rates of just 36%, 37%, and 37%, respectively. The Chevrolet Colorado, with a 48% depreciation rate, is the least impressive in this segment.
So, there you have it. The Toyota Tacoma is a true resale champion, but it's not without its surprises. Different trims offer varying levels of depreciation, and while some excel, others may not live up to expectations. And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about the model, but also the specific trim and its features that impact resale value.
What do you think? Are you surprised by the Tacoma's performance? Do you have any experiences with buying or selling used Tacomas? We'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
