Canadian Vehicle Retained Values Decline in 2026

The average four-year retained value for vehicles dropped to 57 percent this year.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Car Types

Canadian Vehicle Retained Values Decline in 2026

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Does the declining resale value of vehicles change how you plan for your next car purchase?

Canadian Black Book reports that the average four-year retained value for 2023 model year vehicles has fallen to 57 percent in 2026. This significant decline marks a shift from the 67.5 percent average recorded in the previous year study.

Why it matters

Falling residual values increase lease return liabilities for automotive retailers and commercial fleet operators across Canada. These adjustments in market valuation force industry players to rethink their wholesale strategies.

The 2026 average four-year vehicle retained value sits at 57 percent, down from 67.5 percent in the previous year. Toyota earned the Overall Mainstream Brand award for the tenth consecutive year.

The players

Canadian Black Book

This organization provides vehicle valuation data and automotive industry insights used by dealers and insurers in Canada.

Toyota

This global automotive manufacturer produces a wide range of vehicles and has led the mainstream market for years.

Porsche

This German manufacturer is known for high-performance luxury vehicles and maintains a strong premium market presence.

Kia

This automaker is recognized for its growing portfolio of electric vehicles and broad market appeal.

The details

Canadian Black Book calculated these figures by comparing current vehicle market values against original MSRP after a four-year period. The analysis evaluated models across mainstream, premium, and electric segments to determine the top performers, including the Chevrolet Bolt EV, Porsche Taycan, and Tesla Model X.

2023: The model year of the vehicles evaluated for this retention study.
2026: The year the Best Retained Value Awards were published.

Roadmap

This decline reflects broader macroeconomic adjustments as the automotive market corrects after years of historically high used vehicle prices. These valuation shifts force manufacturers to re-evaluate their lease programs and vehicle pricing strategies to remain competitive.

Drivers may notice shifts in lease terms and the residual value buyout options on their current vehicle contracts. These changes can directly impact the cost of trading in a vehicle or entering into a new lease agreement at a dealership.

The takeaway

Vehicle owners should monitor these depreciation rates when planning their next trade-in or lease exit to understand their vehicle's current market standing. Understanding these trends helps consumers make more informed decisions about long-term vehicle ownership costs.