With new and used vehicle prices remaining high, many budget-minded buyers are turning their focus to vehicles that promise long-term value, shining a spotlight on the J.D. Power 2025 U.S. ALG Residual Value Awards. For the fourth year in a row, Lexus has secured the title of best premium brand, while Honda continues its reign as the top mass market brand. Lexus led all brands with five model-level awards, followed closely by Toyota with four.
“Honda maintained disciplined pricing strategies in 2024, avoiding the aggressive MSRP hikes that compromised affordability for many competitors, while Lexus’ limited use of incentives had a positive impact on resale values for older models,” said Danny Battaglia, managing director of ALG customer success at J.D. Power. “Top brands consistently manage a balanced approach to trim levels, powertrains, and pricing—an approach that enhances residual performance and delivers strong long-term value for consumers navigating a fiercely competitive market.”
In total, 16 brands received awards across 33 segments for the 2025 model year, one more than last year. The selection process involved analyzing 311 models based on their used-vehicle performance, brand trajectory, and market competitiveness. To qualify for a brand award, manufacturers needed entries in at least four different vehicle segments. The process accounted for differences across trim levels by weighting model averages according to their sales share within the full model line. For a segment to be eligible, at least four brands had to be included.
Model-Level Residual Value Leaders
Lexus led with five model-level awards for the IS, LS, NX, RX, and TX. Toyota followed with four, awarded to the GR Supra, Camry, Land Cruiser, and Tundra. GMC, Honda, and Subaru each claimed three model-level accolades. The full list of winners includes:
– Lexus: IS, LS, NX, RX, TX
– Toyota: GR Supra, Camry, Land Cruiser, Tundra
– GMC: Sierra 3500 HD, Hummer EV SUT, Hummer EV SUV
– Honda: Civic, Passport, Odyssey
– Subaru: WRX, Crosstrek, Forester
– BMW: 5 Series, X1
– Jeep: Wagoneer, Gladiator
– Acura: Integra
– Cadillac: Escalade
– Chevrolet: Corvette
– Dodge: Charger Daytona
– Hyundai: Kona EV
– Kia: Telluride
– Mercedes-Benz: Sprinter
– Nissan: Kicks
– Tesla: Model 3
The U.S. ALG Residual Value Awards set the industry benchmark for recognizing vehicles expected to retain the highest percentage of their original MSRP over three years. Such value retention is a critical factor in vehicle leasing costs and underscores a brand’s success in maintaining long-term quality, design appeal, and overall desirability.
Numerous factors, including mileage, reliability, options, weather, and the macroeconomic landscape, can impact residual values over a lease term. Accurately forecasting these values relies on understanding each variable’s effect, enabling manufacturers and lenders to enhance profitability. By combining J.D. Power’s market insights with ALG’s expertise, more precise end-of-lease value projections are achievable.
