You may want to know what the best resale SUV is, before you invest in one. Or, you may be trying to determine if the one you currently own is on any top lists for resale. Much of it has to do with the brand, how well each model ended up faring without any part recalls or known common problems.

 

Of course, a great deal has to do with the individual condition of each SUV. However, some are known to have a higher resale value on a more consistent basis.

 

The BMW Class

Not one but two of the BMW SUVs made it on to the list for best resale SUV. The 2011 BMW X5 and the X6 both are lead contenders for this category. The X5 offers seating capacity for seven passengers while maintaining the classic and sleek look of a BMW, which puts this one at the head of the class. The X6 appeals to those who are looking for design closer to a more sleek and compact crossover vehicle while retaining the power of a BMW SUV. It has room for only four passengers, which could be a drawback for some.

 

In a side-by-side comparison, it should be noted both BMWs have the option of all wheel drive and four wheel drive and have an eight speed automatic transmission. Both have an EPA fuel economy rating of 23/16 with a combined 20 miles per gallon. You also get a 3.0 liter, turbocharged, six cylinder engine that produces an impressive 300 horsepower. Aside from features that come standard or not, the main difference between these two SUVs is the size and seating room.

 

The Lexus Category

Lexus is another luxury brand that offers two different options that tend to bring top dollar as resales. The Lexus GX and the Lexus RX for 2011 are also high on the list of SUVs with high resale, and certainly the name has something to do with that. Unlike the BMWs, there are considerably more differences between the GX and the RX.

 

For instance, the Lexus GX comes in all wheel drive only, while the RX is front wheel drive only. Also, the RX is a six speed automatic, and the GX is a five speed. For combined gas mileage, the RX had 22 miles per gallon, while the GX only had 18. While both are four doors, the RX is meant to handle only five passengers, while the GX can carry seven. Finally, as far as the engine goes, the RX gives you a 3.5 liter V6 that creates 275 horsepower. The GX, on the other hand, is a 4.6 liter V8 that works with 301 horsepower. The GX is obviously a bigger vehicle, but there are more differences than the amount of seats each edition holds.

 

The Honda CR-V

In general, Hondas are known to have a good resale value, so it should come as no surprise that the Honda SUV would qualify as well. The main reason consumers crave the CR-V is the utility and performance of this SUV. People also enjoy the comfort and visibility from the heightened level of seating as an SUV should have but in the compact body that actually feels like a crossover.

 

The engine that comes with the standard package is a 2.4 liter, 180 horsepower one that gets the job done. Also for the 2011 model, you get a five speed transmission. For fuel ratings, you can expect 21 miles per gallon for city travels and 28 when it comes to hitting the highway. When it comes to Honda, as long as it is in somewhat decent shape you can expect fair to excellent resale value.

 

The Toyota FJ Cruiser

 

The Cruiser gets a mention because few people realize what a dark horse in the running it is. Even without having the highest amount of sales in the SUV world, it retains a high resale value. People like this SUV option because it really is meant for off road, not just for show. It doesn’t have the greatest fuel efficiency at 17 miles per gallon for the city and 22 on the highway, but what you get in trade is power.

 

One main drawback is that some feel it is actually better at handling off road conditions as opposed to daily driving. In addition, there can be some issues with visibility. Otherwise, the Toyota FJ Cruiser could be the one with the best resale SUV value, whether you are looking to buy one or sell yours.