Hyundai Resale Value: These Models Lose the Least After 5 Years
Hyundai has evolved from a budget-focused brand into a leader in cutting-edge design and electrification tech. In the process it has pivoted its U.S. lineup toward premium SUVs like the Palisade and introduced a dedicated family of electric vehicles that offer class-leading performance and styling.
This has all helped Hyundai increase its U.S. market share year-on-year, and this has positively impacted the resale values of its models as well. Strong residuals mean lower lease payments and more money back in your pocket come resale time if you have bought the vehicle outright. That's why resale values have a huge impact on the true overall cost of ownership.
To see whether consumers are as eager to buy a used Hyundai as a new one, we used the latest data from Kelley Blue Book to analyze the resale value performance of 2021 MY Hyundai models and see which ones are holding onto their value best after nearly five years on the road. New prices listed below are based on the 2021 entry level trim. These are the top five performers:
Hyundai Elantra
- 2021 Original MSRP: $19,650
- Current Average Values: $13,550
- Percentage Drop: 31.0%
Redesigned for the 2021 model year, the Elantra saw a significant jump in its resale performance compared to previous generations. KBB places the 2021 Elantra in the top 10–25% for depreciation among all sedans. The Hybrid Blue and SEL Hybrid trims are the stars here; with fuel economy reaching up to 54 mpg, these models often command a premium on the used market as gas prices continue to rise. The striking exterior design has aged well too, although the facelifted models have toned down the rather aggressive front-end styling. With a new base 2026 Elantra starting at $25,450 before taxes, a used example makes a lot of sense to many motorists on a budget.
Hyundai Tucson
- 2021 Original MSRP: $23,700
- Current Average Values: $15,600
- Percentage Drop: 34.1%
The 2021 Tucson was the final year of its specific body style, which has actually benefited its resale value. Known for being a "proven" platform, it appeals to used car buyers who want a straightforward, reliable SUV without the polarizing looks of the 2022 redesign. KBB notes that the SEL trim is the most likely to retain its value because it includes the 2.4-liter engine upgrade over the base 2.0-liter, making it more capable for highway driving. Owners have reported that these models are also reliable and capable of lasting for well over 200,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Hyundai Kona
- 2021 Original MSRP: $20,500
- Current Average Values: $13,250
- Percentage Drop: 35.3%
The Kona has consistently been among the top performers in the subcompact SUV class according to KBB data. It hits the sweet spot for many buyers thanks to its compact size, great fuel efficiency and modern design. The SEL trim is often cited as the best value-retainer because it adds desirable safety tech like blind-spot monitoring without the steep price jump of the quicker turbo models. The Kona's resale value is bolstered by its high Consumer Rating score on KBB, where owners frequently praise its reliability and styling. Somewhat surprisingly, Hyundai has paused production of the Kona for 2026 as demand has been slow, but it remains popular on the used car market.
Hyundai Palisade
- 2021 Original MSRP: $32,675
- Current Average Values: $20,300
- Percentage Drop: 37.8%
The Palisade has been a game changer for Hyundai's brand image, and its resale value reflects that. As a three-row SUV that competes with luxury brands in terms of interior quality, it remains in high demand on the used market. According to KBB, the Limited and Calligraphy trims tend to retain their value exceptionally well because the premium features like Nappa leather and the digital gauge cluster are highly sought after by second-hand buyers. Its reputation for family safety and its bold design have kept its depreciation lower than many of its domestic competitors.
Hyundai Santa Fe
- 2021 Original MSRP: $27,000
- Current Average Values: $14,950
- Percentage Drop: 44.6%
While its value percentage drop is higher than the Palisade or Elantra, the Santa Fe remains one of Hyundai's best-performing mid-size SUVs. It occupies a unique space between the compact Tucson and the large Palisade, making it ideal for those looking for more interior space but not necessarily requiring a third row. The redesigned 2024 Santa Fe is now also a much larger vehicle with the option of a third row. For the 2021 Santa Fe, the Calligraphy trim with All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is the most resistant to depreciation in the used car market.
Resale Values Vs. Rivals
Overall, Hyundai is performing above the industry average with regards to resale values. With a continually improving and evolving range, including a reputation for solid reliability and great quality, it is fast approaching alternatives like Honda and Toyota in residual value performance, and often outperforms several American brands.
However, its EV models suffer much faster depreciation than its gas-powered sedan and SUV range, although this is common across the industry and the IONIQ models tend to do better in value retention than many rival EVs. In closing, Hyundai's high-value proposition as a new buy has successfully translated into solid resale values. A sure sign that its products are designed to last.
Copyright 2026 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
This story was originally published April 15, 2026 at 10:00 AM.