The Uncomfortable Truth About the Resale Value of the Cadillac CT5-V: What Buyers Need to Know Before Going Bespoke

In an automotive landscape increasingly dominated by crossovers, SUVs, and pickups, the traditional sedan has faced a significant decline in sales. This shift has led many American car companies to pivot away from sedans, choosing instead to focus their resources on the more popular utility vehicle segments. Consequently, for consumers seeking a new American-made sedan, the options have become remarkably limited, with variety being a notable casualty of this market transformation.

Amidst this backdrop, Cadillac stands out as one of the few American automakers still committed to offering a range of sedans. The brand continues to keep its sedan lineup afloat, providing alternatives to the influx of foreign-made sedans from Japan, South Korea, Germany, and Italy that now populate the U.S. market. While some foreign brands assemble their cars on American soil, Cadillac proudly represents a dwindling number of true American carmakers producing sedans for the discerning domestic buyer.

However, for prospective owners of certain high-performance Cadillac sedans, particularly the upcoming 2026 CT5-V Blackwing, a nuanced dilemma emerges regarding long-term value. While Cadillac is introducing an exciting new bespoke program designed to offer unparalleled personalization, this very feature—intended to make each vehicle “as individual and unique as the client”—carries an inherent, uncomfortable truth for the resale market. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for any buyer looking to make an informed decision on their luxury sedan investment.

“225-487 1950 DeSoto 4Door Custom Sedan with Suicide Doors” by bsabarnowl is licensed under CC BY 2.0

1. **The Fading American Sedan Landscape**

The American automotive market has witnessed a profound shift, with the general public’s infatuation firmly settled on crossovers, SUVs, and pickups. This overwhelming preference has directly contributed to a sustained decline in sedan sales over many years. As a result, most American car companies have strategically retreated from the sedan segment, redirecting their focus and resources toward the more lucrative SUV and truck markets.

The term “sedan” itself denotes a specific vehicle type: a car equipped with four doors and designed to accommodate at least four passengers. This definition is important, as it distinguishes sedans from two-door vehicles like the Chevrolet Corvette or Ford Mustang, which are classified as coupes. The scarcity of American-made sedans is underscored by the fact that the majority of new sedans available for sale in the United States today originate from foreign automakers, though some foreign brands do have manufacturing operations within the U.S.

Despite this overarching trend, a small number of American carmaker sedans remain available for purchase, offering a glimpse into a segment that once defined American automotive prowess. This limited variety means that consumers interested in an American sedan must often act quickly, as the choices are far from expansive. It’s a market where legacy and niche demand often play a larger role than sheer volume.

2. **Cadillac CT4: The Entry Point**

For those entering the luxury sedan segment with an American badge, the Cadillac CT4 serves as the brand’s entry-level vehicle. It offers a compelling blend of luxury appointments and a decidedly sporty character, making it an attractive option for buyers seeking performance and refinement without an exorbitant price tag. The CT4 is accessible, with starting prices as low as $35,600, positioning it competitively within the luxury market.

This sedan is more than just a base model; it’s a gateway into Cadillac’s performance-oriented V-Series. For enthusiasts looking to elevate their driving experience beyond the standard, Cadillac provides performance variants in the form of the CT4-V or the even more potent CT4-V Blackwing. These models transform the CT4 into a formidable performance machine, demonstrating Cadillac’s commitment to offering a full spectrum of luxury and speed.

The CT4’s presence in the lineup is strategic, serving as an approachable introduction to the Cadillac brand. It embodies the brand’s commitment to delivering a luxurious experience coupled with responsive handling and dynamic capabilities. Its competitive pricing further broadens its appeal, allowing a wider audience to consider an American luxury sedan that doesn’t compromise on character or driving enjoyment.

3. **Cadillac CT5: Cadillac’s Core Sedan Offering**

Stepping up from the CT4, the Cadillac CT5 holds a crucial position as the CT4’s “big brother,” playing a vital role in sustaining Cadillac’s sedan lineup. This model caters to buyers who appreciate the CT4’s attributes but desire more substantial proportions and enhanced practicality. The CT5 delivers on these fronts by offering greater interior space, which translates to increased comfort for passengers, and more generous cargo capacity, making it a versatile choice for daily use and longer journeys.

Beyond its practicality, the CT5 also stands as a testament to Cadillac’s performance heritage, particularly with its higher-tier options. For those craving exhilarating power, the CT5 can be optioned with a formidable V8 engine, specifically within the high-performance CT5-V Blackwing variant. This engine choice elevates the CT5 from a comfortable luxury cruiser to a true performance sedan, capable of rivaling the most dynamic offerings from global competitors.

In essence, the CT5 represents the heart of Cadillac’s sedan strategy. It successfully balances luxury and performance with the practical considerations of space and utility that many buyers prioritize. By offering a spectrum of options, from well-appointed standard models to the ultra-performance Blackwing, the CT5 ensures that Cadillac remains a relevant and compelling choice in the dwindling American sedan market, keeping the brand’s four-door flame burning brightly.

Car Model Information: 2021 Cadillac CT5 Sport AWD
Name: Cadillac CT5
Caption: 2024 CT5-V
Manufacturer: General Motors
Production: November 2019–present
ModelYears: 2020–present
Assembly: Lansing, Michigan,SAIC-GM
Designer: Josh Thurber,
Class: Mid-size,luxury car
BodyStyle: sedan (car)
Platform: GM Alpha platform
Related: Chevrolet Camaro (sixth generation),Cadillac CT4
Layout: Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout,FMR layout
Engine: ubl
Transmission: Tremec TR-6060 transmission,Ford-GM 10-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 116.0 in
Abbr: on (Luxury RWD)
Length: {{convert,193.8,in,mm,0,abbr=on
Width: 74.1 in
Height: {{convert,57.2,in,mm,0,abbr=on
Weight: 3660 lb
Predecessor: Cadillac CTS
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles with short description, Cadillac vehicles
Summary: The Cadillac CT5 is a mid-size luxury car manufactured and marketed by General Motors under the Cadillac brand since 2019. It is the replacement for the Cadillac CTS.

Get more information about: Cadillac CT5

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Brand: Cadillac Model: CT5
Price: $36,771 Mileage: 7,421 mi.

4. **Cadillac Celestiq: The Ultra-Luxury Bespoke Precedent**

The Cadillac Celestiq represents a paradigm shift for the brand, targeting an entirely distinct and ultra-exclusive audience. With a starting price point soaring north of $400,000, this all-electric vehicle is positioned to directly challenge the established titans of the ultra-luxury market, including revered names such as the Rolls-Royce Ghost and Bentley Flying Spur. The Celestiq is not merely a car; it’s an experience crafted for the most discerning and affluent clientele.

What sets the Celestiq apart is its highly personalized acquisition process, which is the antithesis of a standard off-the-lot purchase. Buyers are paired with a dedicated “concierge” who collaborates with local dealers to facilitate the creation of truly unique vehicles. This bespoke approach, where every detail can be tailored to the customer’s desires, provides advice and guidance throughout the entire design and build journey.

Cadillac openly states that the experience gained from making the Celestiq served as the direct inspiration and “outgrowth” for its new ‘Curated by Cadillac’ program. The Celestiq itself is hand-built, emphasizing meticulous craftsmanship and individuality. This ultra-luxury EV acts as a powerful statement of Cadillac’s aspirations and its capability to deliver unparalleled customization and exclusivity, setting a precedent for personalized luxury across its performance lineup.

5. **The 2026 Curated by Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing: The Bespoke Dilemma**

Building upon the success and lessons learned from the Celestiq, Cadillac recently unveiled its ‘Curated by Cadillac’ program specifically for the 2026 CT5-V Blackwings. This new initiative is designed to offer customers unprecedented ways to make their new luxury performance cars truly bespoke, or at the very least, highly customized. The core objective is for buyers to craft something “as individual and unique as the client,” reflecting their personal tastes and preferences.

For an additional premium, customers opting for the ‘Curated by Cadillac’ program gain access to an extensive array of personalization choices. These include an impressive palette of 160 exterior colors, encompassing both high-gloss and frost finishes, along with various options for interior colors and materials. This level of customization ensures that each ‘Curated by Cadillac’ CT5-V Blackwing can be a one-of-a-kind creation, distinct from any other on the road.

However, this exceptional personalization comes with a significant financial consideration—the uncomfortable truth regarding resale value. While a standard 2026 CT5-V Blackwing starts at around $100,000, the ‘Curated by Cadillac’ versions will begin at approximately $158,000, representing a substantial premium. As the context directly states, this highly individualized approach “may also have the inadvertent effect of reducing the car’s resale value—since used car buyers, as a general rule, prefer everything stock.” For new buyers focused on immediate gratification, this might be of little concern, but it’s a critical factor for long-term financial planning. These bespoke vehicles, powered by a 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 generating 688 horsepower and available with a six-speed manual or 10-speed automatic transmission, are slated for production mid-next year in Warren, Michigan.

Car Model Information: 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X
Name: Cadillac CT5
Caption: 2024 CT5-V
Manufacturer: General Motors
Production: November 2019–present
ModelYears: 2020–present
Assembly: Lansing, Michigan,SAIC-GM
Designer: Josh Thurber,
Class: Mid-size,luxury car
BodyStyle: sedan (car)
Platform: GM Alpha platform
Related: Chevrolet Camaro (sixth generation),Cadillac CT4
Layout: Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout,FMR layout
Engine: ubl
Transmission: Tremec TR-6060 transmission,Ford-GM 10-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 116.0 in
Abbr: on (Luxury RWD)
Length: {{convert,193.8,in,mm,0,abbr=on
Width: 74.1 in
Height: {{convert,57.2,in,mm,0,abbr=on
Weight: 3660 lb
Predecessor: Cadillac CTS
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles with short description, Cadillac vehicles
Summary: The Cadillac CT5 is a mid-size luxury car manufactured and marketed by General Motors under the Cadillac brand since 2019. It is the replacement for the Cadillac CTS.

Get more information about: Cadillac CT5

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Brand: Cadillac Model: CT5-V Blackwing
Price: $64,995 Mileage: 13,767 mi.

“2022 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing in Dark Emerald Frost, front left” by Mr.choppers is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

6. **The Standard CT5-V Blackwing: A Future Collectible?**

In a fascinating counterpoint to the bespoke program’s potential impact on resale, the standard Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing (specifically the 2022 to 2024 models) is already being hailed as a strong investment and a future collectible. According to Alan Gelfand, an expert with over 30 years of experience in servicing luxury German vehicles, these Blackwing sedans masterfully combine American muscle with a high degree of premium refinement, positioning them favorably in the enthusiast market.

The CT5-V Blackwing’s appeal is rooted in its formidable performance credentials. It is powered by a supercharged V8 engine, reportedly derived from the Corvette Z06, which delivers over 650 horsepower. What makes it even more desirable, particularly to purists, is the increasingly rare option of a manual transmission. This combination of raw power and driver engagement sets it apart from many contemporary luxury performance sedans.

Gelfand further notes that “The construction quality and interior components of these vehicles match the standards of BMW M vehicles,” indicating that Cadillac has achieved a level of build quality and material sophistication on par with renowned German performance brands. Crucially, the market dynamics surrounding these vehicles—characterized by low production numbers and robust enthusiast demand—are already contributing to higher resale values. Gelfand’s assessment that “these will become future collectibles” underscores the standard CT5-V Blackwing’s potential for appreciation, creating a striking contrast with the potential resale challenges of its custom-curated counterpart.

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Cadillac Model: CT5-V Blackwing
Price: $64,995 Mileage: 13,767 mi.

7. **Dodge Charger: An American Sedan with Evolving Identity**

The Dodge Charger, a nameplate synonymous with American muscle, is undergoing a significant transformation. Historically celebrated for its powerful V8 engines, the new generation Charger blends traditional sedan practicality with cutting-edge powertrain options. It now offers versatility, allowing buyers to choose between a two-door coupe or a four-door sedan configuration. This adaptability signals a strategic move by Dodge to broaden its market appeal while retaining its performance pedigree.

A key evolution is the introduction of diverse engine choices, moving beyond its V8-centric past. Prospective owners can opt for the fully electric Daytona EV, marking Dodge’s entry into the high-performance electric segment. Alternatively, the Six Pack variant features an I6 Hurricane engine for those preferring internal combustion. This dual-pronged approach reflects the industry’s shift towards electrification, alongside persistent demand for gasoline performance.

While the new-generation Charger may not replicate the exact muscle car sound or raw power of its predecessors, it remains a strong performer. The electric Daytona EV promises instant torque and impressive acceleration, typical of top-tier EVs. Similarly, the Six Pack, with its modern I6 Hurricane engine, is engineered for robust power output and a refined driving experience. This ensures the Charger remains a formidable contender in its class, offering both speed and sophistication.

The Charger’s continued presence as one of few remaining American sedans is noteworthy. In a market where domestic automakers have largely abandoned the sedan segment, Dodge’s commitment provides a crucial option for consumers seeking a domestic four-door vehicle. Its evolution balances honoring heritage with adapting to future automotive trends, making it a unique offering in today’s limited American sedan landscape.

8. **Lucid Air: A New Contender in Luxury EVs**

The Lucid Air, a relatively new entrant, has rapidly made a name for itself in the electric vehicle market. Despite its short lifespan, the EV company has generated significant buzz, particularly for its innovative approach to luxury electric motoring. The Air stands out with its meticulously crafted luxurious interior, offering an environment of premium comfort and advanced design that rivals established luxury brands. This focus on opulent cabin aesthetics appeals to discerning buyers.

Beyond its lavish appointments, the Lucid Air is distinguished by exceptional performance capabilities. It is remarkably quick, delivering exhilarating acceleration that showcases the potency of its electric powertrains. However, perhaps the most intriguing aspect, and a primary selling point for many EV consumers, is its impressive driving range. This addresses a common concern for EV buyers, positioning the Air as a leader in long-distance electric travel.

The range capabilities are truly noteworthy across its various trims. The Air Pure, the entry-level variant, boasts an estimated range of 420 miles on a single charge, providing substantial practicality. Stepping up, the Grand Touring trim pushes this further, with an estimated range of up to 512 miles, setting a benchmark for electric vehicle endurance. These figures underscore Lucid’s engineering prowess in battery technology and efficiency.

For speed enthusiasts, the Lucid Air Sapphire delivers an astonishing 1,234 horsepower, enabling 0-60 mph in a mere 1.89 seconds. This extreme performance variant demonstrates Lucid’s ambition to compete in both the luxury EV and hyper-performance segments. The combination of luxurious interior, remarkable speed, and class-leading range makes the Lucid Air a formidable and highly attractive option in the burgeoning luxury EV market.

Car Model Information: 2023 Lucid Air Touring
Name: Lucid Air
Caption: 2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring in Zenith Red
Manufacturer: Lucid Motors
Production: September 2021 – present
ModelYears: 2022–present
Assembly: Casa Grande, Arizona
Designer: Derek Jenkins
Class: Executive car
BodyStyle: Sedan (automobile)
Layout: unbulleted list
Related: Lucid Gravity
Transmission: One-speed fixed gear
Powerout: cvt
Battery: kWh,Lithium-ion battery
ElectricRange: cvt
Charging: unbulleted list
Wheelbase: 2960 mm
Order: flip
Abbr: on
Length: 4975 mm
Width: 1939 mm
Height: 1410 mm
Weight: convert
Sp: us
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles containing potentially dated statements from 2021
Summary: The Lucid Air is a battery electric four-door luxury sedan made by Lucid Motors. The car was announced in December 2016 and sold starting in 2021 as the brand’s first car. It has been positively reviewed by critics and is known for its range and performance capabilities. The Dream Edition’s EPA range is estimated at 520 miles (840 km), the longest on the market as of 2024. The production model was unveiled in September 2020, and production began in late 2021. In November 2020, the Lucid Air Pure was announced with 406 miles (653 km) of projected range and 480 horsepower (360 kW) and a starting price of US$77,400. The range of trim levels includes Pure, Touring, Grand Touring, and Dream Edition. On September 28, 2021, Lucid Motors announced that production had begun, with the base Pure model expected in late 2022. Deliveries commenced on October 30, 2021, with the first reservation holders taking delivery of Air Dream Editions in an event in California.

Get more information about: Lucid Air

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Brand: Lucid Model: Air
Price: $49,699 Mileage: 21,369 mi.

9. **Tesla Model 3: Accessible Luxury EV**

The Tesla Model 3 has carved out a significant niche, offering a compelling blend of value and performance to a broad consumer base. As Tesla’s entry-level vehicle, it provides an accessible pathway into electric luxury, starting at a competitive price of $34,490. This affordability, combined with advanced features, makes it a popular choice for those transitioning to electric motoring.

One of the Model 3’s core strengths lies in its well-rounded performance and comfort. It delivers an engaging driving experience with instant torque and responsive handling. Inside, the cabin is designed for comfort, featuring a minimalist aesthetic and a user-friendly interface. This combination of comfort and quickness is complemented by a “boatload of technology,” integrating seamlessly into daily lives.

Its technological prowess extends to advanced driver-assistance systems, over-the-air software updates, and intuitive infotainment features. These elements not only enhance the driving experience but also ensure the vehicle remains current and capable over time. Such continuous innovation is a hallmark of the Tesla brand, providing ongoing value beyond the initial purchase.

For an even more exhilarating ride, the Model 3 Performance variant elevates the car’s dynamic capabilities considerably. This higher-tier model offers enhanced acceleration and handling, designed to satisfy enthusiasts. The availability of such a potent option ensures the Model 3 lineup caters to a spectrum of preferences, from efficient daily commuting to high-performance driving, solidifying its position as a versatile electric luxury sedan.

Car Model Information: 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X
Name: Tesla Model 3
Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
Production: 2017–present
Assembly: unbulleted list
Designer: Franz von Holzhausen
Class: Mid-size car
BodyStyle: Sedan (car)
Layout: unbulleted list
Related: Tesla Model Y
Motor: unbulleted list
Transmission: Single-speed fixed (9:1 ratio)
Battery: unbulleted list
ElectricRange: unbulleted list
Charging: unbulleted list
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: unbulleted list
Width: cvt
Height: unbulleted list
Weight: cvt
Caption: 2019 Tesla Model 3 Performance
Categories: 2020s cars, ANCAP large family cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles in need of updating, All Wikipedia articles written in American English
Summary: The Tesla Model 3 is a battery electric powered mid-size sedan with a fastback body style built by Tesla, Inc., introduced in 2017. The vehicle is marketed as being more affordable to more people than previous models made by Tesla. The Model 3 was the world’s top-selling plug-in electric car for three years, from 2018 to 2020, before the Tesla Model Y, a crossover SUV based on the Model 3 chassis, took the top spot. In June 2021, the Model 3 became the first electric car to pass global sales of 1 million. A facelifted Model 3 with revamped interior and exterior styling was introduced in late 2023 for countries supplied by Gigafactory Shanghai and in early 2024 in North America and other countries supplied by the Tesla Fremont Factory.

Get more information about: Tesla Model 3

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Brand: Tesla Model: Model 3
Price: $64,995 Mileage: 13,767 mi.

10. **Tesla Model S: The Flagship Electric Performance Sedan**

The Tesla Model S has long been the flagship sedan for the pioneering electric automaker, representing the pinnacle of Tesla’s initial vision for luxury and performance. Even with the introduction of newer models like the Cybertruck, the Model S maintains its status as an embodiment of Tesla’s commitment to premium electric mobility. It continues to set a high bar for what an electric sedan can achieve in terms of speed, range, and technological sophistication.

As a more substantial offering than its smaller sibling, the Model 3, the Model S provides greater interior space and a significantly enhanced performance envelope. Its larger dimensions contribute to increased passenger comfort, particularly on longer journeys, and often translate to more cargo capacity. This makes the Model S a more practical choice for families or individuals requiring additional room, without compromising on driving dynamics.

The performance capabilities are a major draw, pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle engineering. Options deliver breathtaking acceleration, rivaling and often surpassing many traditional gasoline-powered sports cars and luxury sedans. This raw power, coupled with advanced battery technology, underpins its reputation as a true performance machine, delivering thrilling experiences alongside luxurious amenities.

However, the elevated performance and larger stature come with a substantially higher price point compared to the Model 3. With a starting price of $94,990, it represents a significant investment, positioning it firmly within the luxury segment. This pricing reflects its advanced technology, superior materials, and flagship status, appealing to those desiring the ultimate in Tesla’s sedan offerings.

Car Model Information: 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X
Name: Tesla Model S
ModelYears: 2013–present
Alt: A front-three quarter view of a gray Model S
Caption: #2016–2019: First major update
Designer: Franz von Holzhausen
Weight: cvt
Height: cvt
Width: cvt
Length: cvt
Wheelbase: cvt
ElectricRange: cvt
Battery: kWh,lithium-ion battery
Motor: Unbulleted list
Transmission: Reduction drive
Related: Tesla Model X
Layout: Rear-motor, rear-wheel drive,Dual-motor, all-wheel-drive,Tri-motor, all-wheel-drive layout
BodyStyle: liftback,sedan (automobile)
Class: Full-size car
Assembly: Unbulleted list
Production: June 2012 – present
Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
Sp: us
Chassis: Unibody
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles containing potentially dated statements, Articles containing potentially dated statements from 2025
Summary: The Tesla Model S is a battery-electric, four-door full-size car produced by the American automaker Tesla since 2012. The automaker’s second vehicle and longest-produced model, the Model S has been described as one of the most influential electric cars in the industry. Car and Driver named it one of the best cars of the year in 2015 and 2016. Its various accolades include the Motor Trend Car of the Year Award in 2013. Tesla started developing the Model S around 2007 under the codename WhiteStar, with Henrik Fisker appointed as lead designer for the project. After a dispute with Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, Fisker was replaced by Franz von Holzhausen who, by 2008, had designed the production Model S’s exterior. Tesla unveiled a prototype of the vehicle in March 2009 in Hawthorne, California. In 2010, Tesla acquired a facility in Fremont, California, to produce the Model S, which was previously owned by General Motors and Toyota. Series manufacture of the car officially began at the Tesla Fremont Factory in June 2012. Tesla carried out the final assembly for European markets at its facilities in Tilburg, Netherlands, between 2013 and 2021. Constructed mostly of aluminum, the Model S shares 30 percent of its components with the Model X—a crossover SUV that was introduced in 2015. The Model S has undergone several updates during its production, the most prominent ones occurring in 2016 and 2021. These updates have usually included modifications to the motor, such as changes to power or torque, revised exterior elements, and refreshed interior features. One such change included the 2015 introduction of Tesla Autopilot—a partial vehicle automation advanced driver-assistance system. The 2021 update led to the introduction of the high-performance, three-motor Plaid—Tesla’s most powerful model. In 2015, the Model S was the world’s best-selling plug-in electric vehicle. In 2012, it was included on Time’s list of the Best Inventions of the Year, and the magazine later included it on its list of the 10 Best Gadgets of the 2010s in 2019. In 2014, The Daily Telegraph described the Model S as a “car that changed the world”. Road & Track argued that, with the introduction of the Plaid and features such as the yoke steering wheel, Tesla managed to turn the Model S into “perhaps one of the worst [cars in the world]”.

Get more information about: Tesla Model S

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Brand: Tesla Model: Model S
Price: $64,995 Mileage: 13,767 mi.

Jaguar F-Type R-Dynamic P450 RWD - $77,900 — JAGUAR F-TYPE RALLY CARS CELEBRATE 70 YEARS OF SPORTS CAR … | Flickr, Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

11. **The Undeniable Value of Select Sports Cars: A Depreciation Deep Dive**

Understanding depreciation rates is paramount when considering automotive investments, and certain sports cars stand out as exceptional examples of value retention. iSeeCars’ studies analyzing depreciation across various vehicle types provide invaluable data for car shoppers. While all vehicles inevitably depreciate, some models, particularly sports cars, defy typical trends by maintaining a significant portion of their original value over time. This makes them attractive for buyers focused on long-term financial prudence.

Among the elite, the Porsche 911 consistently ranks as a top performer in value retention. The Robb Report explicitly notes it as a sound automotive investment, despite its high initial cost. Over a five-year period, it exhibits the lowest depreciation rate of any model, averaging just 19.5% loss of value, or approximately $24,428. This exceptional performance in the aftermarket allows owners to net a substantial amount upon resale, underscoring its enduring desirability.

The phenomenon of slow depreciation extends to other Porsche iterations, including the 718. The Robb Report highlights that the 718, much like its esteemed sibling, demonstrates impressive value retention. This is attributed to factors elevating Porsche’s standing: the brand is iconic, fostering high desire even in the used market. Porsches are renowned for high performance, advanced design, and cutting-edge technology, all contributing to sustained appeal and slow depreciation.

Other American sports cars also demonstrate remarkable resilience against rapid depreciation, offering compelling value for enthusiasts. The Chevrolet Camaro, for instance, holds its value exceptionally well due to strong demand and enduring popularity. Similarly, the Ford Mustang, an icon, sees its depreciation slow considerably after the five-year mark, supported by a reputation for high performance and reliability. These examples illustrate that brand heritage, performance, and robust demand are key drivers in preserving a vehicle’s value.

luxury sports car single mother's demand — I love sportscars — And I’m in a conflict | by Salvatore Cagliari | ILLUMINATION | Medium, Photo by medium.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

12. **Redefining Luxury: The Shift in Automotive Value Perception**

The landscape of luxury vehicles is undergoing a profound transformation, moving beyond the long-established dominance of traditional German brands. For decades, names like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Porsche have set the benchmark for opulence and engineering. However, industry experts such as Alan Gelfand suggest it’s time to broaden perspectives. He contends that the “luxury experience market no longer depends on German brands because alternative manufacturers now provide comparable premium experiences at lower prices.” This signals a significant reevaluation of true luxury and value.

This shift is driven by emerging brands and established manufacturers significantly improving their offerings. Gelfand points to vehicles like the Genesis G90 and G80 (2022 and newer) as prime examples. Once dismissed, Genesis has invested heavily in engineering, recruiting talent from German brands. Gelfand notes “The engineering divisions of Genesis and Cadillac established partnerships with employees who previously worked at German automakers,” enhancing their vehicles’ suspension, materials, and sophistication.

Beyond the initial purchase, the long-term value proposition often surpasses that of German counterparts, particularly concerning maintenance and ownership costs. Genesis offers a generous 10-year powertrain warranty, a stark contrast to the typical four years from BMW and Audi. This extended coverage can lead to substantial savings, with Gelfand estimating owners could save 40% to 50% on maintenance over five years compared to a Mercedes S-Class. Such practical advantages significantly enhance overall value, making them “more cost-effective options to own.”

The evolving market is not just about competing on price, but also delivering a complete, refined luxury experience. Brands like Lexus, with its LS 500 (2021 and newer), have made significant strides in areas like ride quality and infotainment. Gelfand affirms “The brand stands as a proper competitor to S-Class luxury vehicles,” emphasizing its reliability and enhanced features. This means that while German marques retain prestige, they no longer monopolize the premium driving experience, offering diverse choices with competitive quality, technology, and better long-term value.

The journey through the American sedan market, from Cadillac’s bespoke offerings to the rise of luxury EVs and the surprising resilience of sports car values, paints a complex but fascinating picture for the discerning buyer. As the automotive industry continues its rapid evolution, particularly with the acceleration of electrification and personalization, understanding the intricate relationship between a vehicle’s initial appeal, its bespoke potential, and its long-term financial viability becomes more critical than ever. Ultimately, the “uncomfortable truth” about resale value serves not as a deterrent, but as an essential compass, guiding consumers towards choices that align both with their passion for driving and their financial wisdom in this dynamic world of luxury automobiles.