2012 Top 10 Cars with the Highest Resale Value

Kelly Blue Book has been publishing their Official Residual Value Guide since 1981, and has helped American consumers find the top new cars with the highest estimated residual value since then.

Remember, you should carefully consider the estimated residual value of a new car, most especially if you are looking for a new car lease.

Leasing a car with a high residual value will give you lower monthly payments. This is because the lease price will be based on the negotiated selling price (or MSRP) along with the residual value. Simply put, a car that depreciates less will provide you with more savings on your new car lease.

Here are the top 10 cars with the highest residual value for 2012:

1. Jeep Wrangler

With a projected residual value of 68% after 36 months, the Jeep Wrangler is also one of the best and cheapest cars to lease, with lease prices starting at only $219/month.

2. Toyota FJ Cruiser

The FJ Cruiser is a robust off-road vehicle that has unique retro-styling cues, harking back to the original FJ40 Land Cruiser of the 1960's. Resale value is estimated to be 67% after 36 months.

3.Toyota Tacoma

Toyota once again proves that the Tacoma is one of the best choices for a durable and reliable pickup truck. the Tacoma has an estimated residual value of 64% after36 months.

4. Hyundai Tucson

The Tucson is Hyundai's entry into the compact SUV department. With gorgeous styling and a long warranty, the Tucson has an estimated residual value of 64.3% after 36 months.

5. Audi Q7

The Q7 is Audi's first SUV, and it is a good one at that. It is sporty, stylish, and comes with Audi-levels of interior quality and refinement. The Q7 has an estimated residual value of 63.3% after 36 months.

6. Infiniti FX

If you happen to be searching for a sporty midsize SUV that drives like a true sports sedan, the Infiniti FX combines good looks with sure-footed handling. The Infiniti FX has an estimated residual value of 58% after 36 months.

7. Honda CR-V

It comes as no surprise that the CR-V is once again included in the list of cars with the highest residual value, which is estimated to be around 60.3% after 36 months.

8. Lexus RX

Whether buying new or used, the Lexus RX remains a solid choice. It is a highly desirable compact SUV, with a residual value that is estimated to be around 64% after 36 months.

9. Nissan Frontier

The Frontier utilizes a fully-boxed frame to deliver reliable performance. It also happens to be one of the cars with highest residual value, which is estimated to be 56.2% after 36 months.

10. Chevrolet Camaro

The Camaro is a desirable sports car because it has the looks of a muscle car with the performance and refinement of a modern vehicle. Residual value is estimated to be 57% after 36 months.