IRVINE, Calif. -

Here’s something dealers may want to use to emphasize value when the price tag is high: In Kelley Blue Book’s announcement  unveiling the 5-Year Cost to Own Awards, KBB’s Dan Ingle points out it’s possible a more expensive vehicle may end up saving the consumer money.

Case in point, Lexus and its residual values.

The Japanese brand has won this KBB award on the luxury side for the second straight year. KBB said that even though Lexus’ average Fair Purchase Price is heftier than some of its rivals, the brand’s lineup-wide residual strength has led to
Lexus having the lowest depreciation cost of any eligible luxury automaker. 

Not to mention, Lexus has the lowest repair costs, and its fuel and insurance costs are some of the lowest as well.

The awards are based on analysis of 5-Year Cost Own information for 2014 model-year vehicles, which accounts for depreciation, expected fuel costs, F&I fees, maintenance/repair costs, and state fees for new models. The data is based on the initial five-year ownership period. KBB calculates total ownership costs for new cars through a sophisticated valuation methodology and financial information from third-party providers

Mazda, which won the 5-Year Cost to Own: Best Brand among all automakers, was noted for its low average Fair Purchase Price, residual value strength and having the lowest fuel and insurance costs.

“New-car shoppers naturally want to know how much a car will cost upfront; however, sometimes an even more expensive car can actually save you money during the first five years of ownership,” said Ingle, vice president of vehicle valuations for Kelley Blue Book.  

“Kelley Blue Book’s 5-Year Cost to Own information evaluates the other out-of-pocket expenses drivers will incur, which helps consumers choose the vehicle that fits them and their wallets best, helping save money down the road,” he added.