Feb 23, 2026
Best Resale Value: Top Vehicle Types to Buy in 2026

In the vast expanse of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, where daily drives weave through thriving suburbs such as Plano, Frisco, and McKinney, and weekend getaways call for vehicles capable of handling both urban traffic and open roads, a practical question surfaces time and again: Which vehicles truly preserve their worth when the time comes to sell or trade them in?

The clear frontrunners in this region remain SUVs and trucks. These body styles align seamlessly with North Texas life offering ample room for families, gear, and occasional towing duties while delivering superior resale returns backed by market data. The global used car market stood at USD 1.90 trillion in 2024 and is expected to expand to USD 2.70 trillion by 2030, advancing at a CAGR of 6.0% from 2025 onward, with the SUV segment dominating by size in 2024. North America held a commanding 32.8% share of the global market that year, underscoring the region’s robust demand for pre-owned vehicles.

In the United States, the used car market is projected to grow by USD 40.2 billion between 2024 and 2029 at a CAGR of 4.3%, propelled by the compelling value of pre-owned options and the convenience of online browsing platforms. Looking further ahead, the U.S. market is anticipated to reach USD 871.30 billion in 2026 and climb to USD 980.47 billion by 2031, reflecting a steady 2.41% CAGR. Within this landscape, SUVs and crossovers are expected to capture 43.27% of the market size in 2026, growing at a robust 7.25% CAGR through 2031. Pickups also demonstrate impressive staying power; for instance, three-year-old Ford F-150 models frequently retain 60–65% of their original value, thanks to consistent demand from contractors, small businesses, and everyday users who prize capability.

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Emerging Trends Driving Resale Strength in DFW

The preference for larger, more versatile vehicles has solidified across the metroplex. Expansive neighborhoods in Frisco and McKinney reward models that accommodate growing families, lengthy commutes, and light towing needs. Nationally, full-size and midsize trucks consistently lead resale rankings, and North Texas mirrors this pattern closely. According to Kelley Blue Book‘s 2025 Best Resale Value Awards, standout performers include the Toyota Tacoma with 64.1% projected five-year retention, the Toyota Tundra at 60.9%, and the Toyota 4Runner around 60%. These results highlight a broader truth: Texas buyers favor durability, utility, and proven reliability, and the market consistently compensates those priorities with stronger residual values.

SUVs trail closely and often match or exceed truck performance in many local contexts. Compact and midsize crossovers such as the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Subaru Crosstrek regularly appear among top retainers, combining efficient daily driving with the cargo space and seating that DFW households require. In tech-heavy areas like Plano and Richardson, these vehicles offer an ideal compromise economical for weekday routines yet adaptable for outings to nearby lakes or parks. The post-pandemic emphasis on personal space and flexibility has only intensified this shift, pushing used SUV demand higher throughout the region.

Electric vehicles introduce another dimension, especially in progressive communities like Plano and Richardson. Although they represent a smaller portion of the market, battery-electric models continue to gain momentum, supported by declining used prices many now fall in the $25,000–$28,000 range following notable drops in 2024 and the appeal of reduced long-term fuel and maintenance costs amid rising gasoline prices. Resale potential, however, can vary depending on local charging availability; gaps in infrastructure in places like Garland or Forney may temper confidence for some buyers.

Certified pre-owned (CPO) programs have surged in popularity, particularly in wealthier enclaves such as Frisco, Rockwall-Heath, and Grapevine. The added layer of factory-backed warranties, rigorous inspections, and detailed vehicle histories provides reassurance that frequently translates into higher trade-in values and stronger long-term retention.

Local Patterns and Practical Insights

Patterns become evident when examining dealership inventories in Mesquite, Grapevine, and surrounding areas. Pickup trucks flourish in Plano’s spread-out suburbs, where models like the Toyota Tundra or Chevrolet Silverado resonate with residents who need genuine work-ready capability. In more compact, commute-focused zones of Frisco, reliable compact sedans such as the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla maintain solid reputations for dependability and lower operating costs, even if they depreciate more quickly than SUVs or trucks amid the regional tilt toward larger vehicles.

Demand data reinforces these observations: Ford F-150s, Chevrolet Silverado 1500s, and Ram 1500s consistently top used sales volumes in the metro area, with popular SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V close behind. These vehicles do not merely sell well they hold value because they address everyday realities in a market where size and versatility often equate to practicality.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Not all categories perform evenly. Sedans and smaller passenger cars typically experience faster depreciation in Dallas and Richardson, where consumer preferences favor bigger footprints. EVs face hurdles in areas with limited charging options, such as Garland or Plano, which could influence future resale strength. Lingering effects from past supply disruptions occasionally create pricing volatility, particularly for high-demand models.

Brand perception plays a role as well. Chevrolet and Ford benefit from deep Texas roots, yet individual model performance can vary based on maintenance records and evolving buyer views.

Strategies to Maximize Value

The growing CPO segment offers tangible advantages for shoppers in higher-income areas like Frisco vehicles with extended coverage and verified condition often command premium trade-in figures. Consistent maintenance remains one of the most effective ways to protect resale across the board; in humid zones like Rockwall-Heath, proactive care against rust and timely fluid services can make a measurable difference.

Digital platforms and valuation tools have revolutionized the process, empowering buyers in Dallas and Plano to monitor market trends, compare local pricing, and make data-driven decisions with confidence.

Future Outlook for the DFW Market

Industry observers anticipate sustained leadership from trucks and SUVs, with Toyota models frequently projected to excel due to their reputation for longevity. As economic drivers evolve continued job expansion in McKinney, tech sector growth in Richardson the appetite for adaptable, high-utility vehicles is likely to persist.

Ultimately, in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, resale value represents real financial impact. Choosing high-demand categories such as SUVs, trucks, and carefully maintained CPO options transforms a vehicle purchase into a strategic, long-term asset.

Curious about models that stand the test of time in Garland, Dallas, Richardson, Plano, Rockwall-Heath, Forney, Mesquite, McKinney, Grapevine, and Frisco? Visit the current selection and explore financing at JupiterChev.com. As a family-owned dealership with more than 100 years of service and a lifetime powertrain warranty, Jupiter Chevrolet delivers a trusted local option built for lasting value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which vehicle types hold their value best in the Dallas-Fort Worth area?

SUVs and trucks consistently offer the best resale value in the DFW metroplex, with full-size and midsize pickups leading the rankings. Models like the Toyota Tacoma retain approximately 64.1% of their value after five years, while the Toyota Tundra holds around 60.9%. Popular SUVs such as the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Subaru Crosstrek also demonstrate strong resale performance, making them ideal choices for families and commuters throughout North Texas.

How much value do pickup trucks retain after three years?

Three-year-old Ford F-150 models typically retain 60-65% of their original value in the used car market. This impressive retention rate is driven by consistent demand from contractors, small businesses, and everyday users who value the truck’s capability and versatility. Other popular pickups like the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and Ram 1500 also maintain strong resale values throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth region.

What factors help maximize a vehicle’s resale value in Texas?

Several key strategies can significantly boost your vehicle’s resale value: choosing certified pre-owned (CPO) programs that offer factory-backed warranties and detailed vehicle histories, maintaining consistent service records, and selecting high-demand categories like SUVs and trucks. Regular maintenance is especially important in humid areas like Rockwall-Heath, where proactive rust prevention and timely fluid services can make a measurable difference in long-term value retention.

Disclaimer: The above helpful resources content contains personal opinions and experiences. The information provided is for general knowledge and does not constitute professional advice.

You may also be interested in: The Jupiter Advantage

Feeling stuck in the stressful car-buying process? At Jupiter Chevrolet in Garland, TX, we’ve reimagined how buying a car should feel. With transparent pricing, online deal-building tools, and the benefits of our Jupiter Advantage program, we ensure every step is straightforward and satisfying. Skip the hassle. From purchase, to certified service and parts, to collision repair and body shop. Our team puts your convenience, safety, and confidence first. Turn your dreams of finding your ideal Chevrolet into reality with us. Visit Jupiter Chevrolet today!

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