If you're in the market for a brand new car, chances are you're not too worried about depreciation; the old adage that a new vehicle loses a big chunk of its value as soon as it's driven off the forecourt - holds more than a grain of truth.

 

But knowing which cars depreciate slowest could leave you in a better financial position, say, three years down the line - with more retained value.

 

Here we look at the ten cars What Car? identified as having the best resale value in 2020.

 

10. Range Rover Evoque

Model D180 R Dynamic auto List price £37,465; 36k/3yr resale value £22,125; Price drop £15,340; Retained value 59.1%

 

The first incarnation of the Evoque hit forecourts back in 2011 and proved exceptionally popular. A key reason for this was - and is - its looks. The styling was a sporty departure from the grand old daddy of 4x4s - the flagship Range Rover. The second generation has had a pleasing facelift that retains the previous model’s handsomeness while maintaining the outgoing version’s quality interior, superb level of standard equipment, and smooth ride.

 

9. Lamborghini Urus 

Model 4.0T FSI V8 List price £166,152; 36k/3yr resale value £98,625; Price drop £67,527; Retained value 59.4%

 

A Lambo will always be desirable, even when sold second hand - and a used Uras is no different. Add a spacious cabin and superb performance, and you have the ingredients for a slow-depreciating vehicle. However, because the initial purchase price is so high, around £70,000 is lost in the first three years.

 

8. Porsche 911

Model Carrera 4 List price £89,436; 36k/3yr resale value £53,775; Price drop £35,661; Retained value 60.1%

 

As well as being a bona fide sports car, it’s possible to use the 911 on a daily basis for a normal life - something that isn't true of all high-end sports cars. This usability, combined with iconic looks and adrenaline-pumping performance, help ensure the more recent 911s retain their value well.

 

7. Tesla Model 3

Model Performance AWD Performance Upgrade List price £56,545; 36k/3yr resale value £34,050; Price drop £22,495; Retained value 60.2%

 

Elon Musk's brainchild remains the most desirable electric car on the market - which is why it holds so much of its value. Fun to drive, bristling with tech - and rather fast to boot.

 

6. Land Rover Defender

Model P300 S 110 List price £52,060 36k/3yr resale value £31,950 Price drop £20,110 Retained value 61.4%

 

From pop stars to arable farmers, from the British Army to the Queen - the Defender has many admirers. The latest incarnation is a good option if you need a tough - yet stylish - offroader that will still be worth a decent wedge in three years' time.

 

5. Porsche Macan

Model Turbo PDK List price £69,865; 36k/3yr resale value £43,550; Price drop £26,315; Retained value 62.3%

 

The Macan has been a hit because it marries sporty looks and great performance with comfort and a quiet cabin. In addition, it keeps a very decent chunk of its value after three years.

 

4. Porsche Taycan

Model Turbo List price £115,913; 36k/3yr resale value £72,300; Price drop £43,613; Retained value 62.4%

 

Porsche's take on the electric sports car merits some attention: it's thrillingly fast, offers great handling, and boasts the kind of plush interior you would expect from Porsche. What's more, you should get back more than 60% of what you paid for it three years later.

 

3. Porsche Cayenne Coupé

Model E Hybrid Tiptronic S List price £71,504; 36k/3yr resale value £45,500; Price drop £26,004; Retained value 63.6%

 

All Cayennes keep their value very well, but the E Hybrid model comes out on top - thanks to its combination of sporty performance and spacious cabin. It can travel 20 miles on battery before you need to switch to fuel. And, you guessed it, it should fetch a handsome sum three years later.

 

2. Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo

Model 2.9 V6 4 PDK List price £74,225; 36k/3yr resale value £48,400; Price drop £25,825; Retained value 65.2%

 

A larger, more spacious version of the Panamera hatchback, this model delivers searing performance and a boot large enough for the monthly shop. Plus, it should hold a whopping 65% of its value after three years.

 

1. Alpine A110

Model 1.8T Pure List price £47,810; 36k/3yr resale value £31,275; Price drop £16,535; Retained value 65.4%

 

The little-known Alpine A110 is a great choice if you want a wonderfully fun sports car that keeps its value better than pretty much any other vehicle.