IRVINE, Calif. -

When looking at retained value for compact cars from the 2012 model-year, Kelley Blue Book noticed one, in particular, that edged out its peers in this segment where competition is “fierce.”

That model?

The 2012 Hyundai Veloster, which was one of only two to command 80 percent or more of its original MSRP, according to KBB.

“The all-new for 2012 Veloster maintains the highest retained value within the compact car segment with an impressive 82 percent of its MSRP,” said KBB senior market analyst Alec Gutierrez.

“The only other vehicle within the segment to hold above 80 percent of its retained value after one year is the completely redesigned for 2012 Subaru Impreza.”

The next closest were the Honda Civic at 72.6 percent and the Hyundai Elantra at 72.5 percent.

The segment average was 69.5 percent retention.

The Mitsubishi Lancer wasn't too far behind the segment average, as it maintained 69.0 percent of its value.

KBB also provided the following chart to illustrate retained value in the compact segment:

Auction Values

Looking at auction values in this segment, KBB found that compact prices in the lanes declined steadily over the past two months. The segment’s average auction price, KBB noted, has remained “slightly lower” than 2012 levels.

The firm also pointed out the role that falling fuel costs and low lease offers have played in lowering prices for compacts.

“The average auction value for vehicles within the compact segment comes in at $11,846 with 16 vehicles falling within the $11,000 to $13,000 range,” said Gutierrez.

“With such a large number of vehicles falling within a $2,000 range, it makes the compact segment one of the most competitive segments in the market.”

To see what prices individual compact models are fetching in the lanes, see KBB’s chart below. The firm also breaks down year-by-year overall trending for the segment.