Edmunds pinpoints 2019 models with highest equity

Edmunds shared data on Thursday that highlights just how much equity the 4 million consumers who began a vehicle lease in 2019 might now possess.

Perhaps more than $7,000 to $10,000 in some instances.

Edmunds analysts looked at the estimated residual values for 2019 model-year vehicles leased in January and February of 2019 and compared those residuals to the trade-in values for 2019 model-year vehicles with 15,000 to 40,000 miles that were traded in during January and February of this year.

Edmunds said that on average, the 2022 trade-in value for all 2019 model-year vehicles saw a 33% lift — or an increase of $7,208 — compared to their original estimated residual value.

“If you’re one of the 4 million Americans who leased a vehicle in 2019, you could be in quite a financially advantageous position this year and not even know it,” Edmunds executive director of insights Jessica Caldwell said in a news release. “Most consumers likely aren’t aware of the other options they have besides turning in their lease once it’s over, including the ability to make a profit from their vehicle.”

Edmunds discovered the Lexus IS 300 commanded the highest percentage increase for luxury vehicles, generating on average 46% more than its original estimated residual value, an increase of $9,868.

Analysts said the Ford Mustang yielded the highest percentage increase for mainstream vehicles, generating 68% more than its original estimated residual value, an increase of $11,852.

“Unless you’ve driven an exorbitant number of miles or your vehicle has excessive wear and tear, you’re pretty much guaranteed to see an increase in value,” Edmunds senior manager of insights Ivan Drury said.

“The one drawback is that you’ll likely have to do a bit more legwork than in the past to take advantage of the equity in your expiring lease given that some auto manufacturers have recently placed more stringent rules on lease purchase options,” Drury said. “But taking some extra steps will be well worth it for many, given the financial reward.”

Leased Luxury Vehicles Commanding the Greatest Percentage Increases in 2022 Trade-in Value vs. Original Estimated Residual Value  
(2019 Model Year)

Leased Mainstream Vehicles Commanding the Greatest Difference in 2022 Trade-in Actual Cash Value vs. Original Estimated Residual Value
(2019 Model Year)