Toyota Brand Awarded Best Resale Value by KBB

Many car shoppers never realize depreciation is the biggest cost when it comes to owning a new car. After 3 years, most new cars are worth about half what they were brand new. For a $30,000 car, the cost is equivalent to $5,000 per year.

It's important to pay attention to residual values and choose a car that will retain its value, especially if you intend to sell it within 5 years.

Kelley Blue Book just announced the results of its "2010 Best Resale Value" award winners and Toyota won the best brand for the first time since the awards began in 2003. Lexus was also awarded the best Luxury brand.

As for individual cars, here are the top 10 best cars to own when it comes to resale value:

1. Audi A5
2. BMW M3
3. Chevrolet Corvette
4. Chevrolet Camaro SS
5. Honda CR-V
6. Mini Cooper
7. Mini Cooper Clubman
8. Toyota Prius
9. Toyota RAV4
10. Toyota Tacoma

To see the full list and winners by category, check out KBB's press release