# 3 Pickup Trucks With Better Resale Value Than the Ford Ranger

Toyota models stand out in the used car market thanks to their reliability.

- **Source:** [SlashGear](https://www.slashgear.com)
- **Published:** 2026-08-02
- **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business)
- **Original article:** <https://www.slashgear.com/2226145/trucks-with-better-resale-value-than-ford-ranger/>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/e7223e5a-2c50-458e-b74e-1a9755fbd2bf

## Vehicle Depreciation is Inevitable

Most vehicles lose 40-60% of their value within the first five years due to age, outdated technology, mileage, and wear. Even popular models aren't exempt. The Ford Ranger, which sold 70,960 units in 2025 (a 53.5% increase from the previous year), is projected to retain only 53.4% of its value after five years for the 2026 model.

## Three Models Outperform the Ford Ranger

Three 2026 pickup trucks have better resale value than the Ford Ranger: the Ford Maverick (54.1%), Toyota Tundra (59.9%), and Toyota Tacoma (63.0%). The Tacoma leads the pack with a 63% value retention rate, making it the best resale value vehicle of 2026. With 274,638 units sold in 2025, the Tacoma far outperformed the Ranger in sales.

## Toyota's Reliability Advantage

The Toyota Tacoma's strong resale value stems from the brand's reputation for reliability. Toyota frequently tops Consumer Reports' reliability studies by implementing gradual improvements rather than radical redesigns. The 2026 Tacoma is expected to sell for around $20,440 after five years, reflecting its enduring value.

## Factors Influencing Consumer Choices

Reliability is a top priority for used pickup buyers. Even after five years of regular use, a Tacoma still has plenty of life left, with some buyers willing to purchase models with over 100,000 miles. Low maintenance costs further enhance its appeal as a long-term investment, making it a smart choice in the used vehicle market.

## Toyota's Design Philosophy

Steven Elek, Program Leader of Auto Data Analytics, notes that Toyota's conservative redesign approach contributes to its reliability. By focusing on incremental improvements across its lineup rather than introducing all-new systems, Toyota ensures its vehicles remain dependable as they age. This strategy helps maintain strong resale values.

## The Ford Ranger's Position

While the Ford Ranger outperforms the F-150, it trails behind the Tacoma, Tundra, and Maverick in resale value. The base model 2026 Ranger is projected to sell for around $17,800 after five years—nearly half its original price. This places it close to the industry average but behind its top competitors.

## The Tacoma's Sales Success

The Toyota Tacoma's 2025 sales of 274,638 units dwarfed the Ford Ranger's figures, selling nearly four times as many vehicles. This gap isn't just due to reliability but also the Tacoma's rugged build and longevity. Consumers consistently favor vehicles that promise years of trouble-free use.

## Key Takeaways for the Used Car Market

For used pickup buyers, the best investment is a model with high value retention. The Toyota Tacoma leads this category by a wide margin, with reliability, low maintenance costs, and durability driving consumer preferences. Even popular models like the Ford Ranger can struggle to compete on these critical factors.

## Sources covering this story

- https://www.slashgear.com/2226145/trucks-with-better-resale-value-than-ford-ranger/ — 

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._
