SANTA BARBARA, Calif. -

When it comes to value retention, the brand expected to command the strongest residuals three years down the road is Mini, according to the latest Industry Report from ALG.

Looking at the 2012 model-year residual outlook in the March/April edition of ALG’s analysis, Mini’s 36-month residual value was projected at 52.5 percent.

ALG pointed out that the expected residual values for four of the five vehicles in Mini’s lineup are more than 50 percent, including the Countryman. This model topped all other vehicles for residual value (55 percent).

As for the reason Mini’s models hold on to their values so well, ALG points to “the high value of the brand and the tight control Mini maintains over its supply.”

The firm added: “Even the lowest performing Mini — the Cooper convertible, with a residual value of 48.7 percent — significantly outperforms the industry average.”

Mini was followed by Subaru, whose models are expected to maintain 51.9 percent of their value during the next three years. Honda was third on the list, as its vehicles will likely retain 50.5 percent of their value.

“Both Japanese marques have strong quality images and make minimal use of sales strategies that can have a negative impact on their brands, such as cash incentives and sales to rental fleets,” ALG explained.

Rounding out the top five were Scion (49.6 percent) and Hyundai (49.4 percent).

On the opposite end of the spectrum, ALG projects Suzuki will have the lowest retention at 42.2 percent.

“While strong in other parts of the world, Suzuki has struggled to be identified with more than just motorcycles in the U.S,” the firm explained.

“Incentive spending also plays a role in the brand’s lower residual values, with every Suzuki model offering greater incentives than the segment average,” officials added. “In addition, Suzuki routinely ranks among the lowest brands in ALG’s Perceived Quality Study.”

Chevrolet (42.2 percent) along with truck-centric GMC (42.3 percent), Ram (42.4 percent) and Jeep (42.5 percent) are in the lower realm, as well.

ALG points out that perceived quality scores are low and incentives are relatively high for Chevy and GMC.

The Big 3 brand with the best value retention is Buick (45.5 percent), followed by Cadillac (45.1 percent).

To see more of ALG’s latest residual analysis, read Auto Remarketing’s previous report here.