How long do people keep different car brands?

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2024 Volvo XC90, how long to keep different car brands

How long does a car last? What is the average car lifespan by brand? The decision of how long to keep a vehicle is dependent on several factors: the reliability of the vehicle, how much you enjoy driving it, and how often you prefer to upgrade to take advantage of new advances in safety and technology.

As part of the Cartelligent service we often help clients get a great value for a trade-in vehicle or return a leased vehicle. We took a look at our internal data to learn more about the average age of Mercedes owners, and answer questions like, “How long does a Lexus last?” or “How long does a car last?” and so much more. 

MINI (Average 4.9 years)

How long does a car last in the MINI brand? MINI is a fun, sporty car for single professionals, but not necessarily one that will work once marriage and children are on the horizon. MINI clients averaged 4.9 years before turning the vehicle in, with 12% keeping the vehicle for over 10 years and 73% replacing it in under 5 years.

Audi (Average 5.1 years)

Audi enthusiasts love the blend of style and technology the brand offers and upgrade regularly to keep up with the latest trends. Audi clients chose to upgrade after 5.1 years with 16% keeping the vehicle for over 10 years and 65% replacing it in under 5 years.

Mercedes-Benz (Average 5.6 years)

What is the average age of Mercedes owners? Mercedes-Benz clients hold their vehicle for an average of 5.6 years with 19% keeping the vehicle for over 10 years and 62% replacing it in under 5 years. New releases offer technology and safety features that make drivers want to update their vehicles.

Acura (Average 6.1 years)

Acura vehicles are known for offering a strong value for a luxury vehicle. Acura clients upgrade after 6.1 years with 23% keeping the vehicle for over 10 years and 55% replacing it in under 5 years. See how the Acura RDX and MDX compare here.

BMW (Average 6.2 years)

BMW incentivizes brand enthusiasts to upgrade often with its innovations in safety and technology, as well as style. BMW clients average 6.2 years before turning in the vehicle, with 23% keeping the vehicle for over 10 years and 54% replacing it in under 5 years. BMWs are the second most common model for Cartelligent clients to special order.

Lexus (Average 6.8 years)

How long does a Lexus last? Lexus is known for their reliability and high resale value but also has a reputation for offering the latest in safety and technology. We found Lexus clients tend to upgrade after 6.8 years with 28% keeping the vehicle for over 10 years and 49% replacing it in under 5 years.

Toyota (Average 7.0 years)

Toyotas consistently top the charts for best resale value so it’s not a surprise to see owners hold onto them. Toyota owners average 7.0 years before turning in their car, with 27% keeping the vehicle for over 10 years and 44% replacing it in under 5 years. See how the Toyota Rav4, Highlander, and 4Runner compare here.

Honda (Average 7.1 years)

Hondas are affordable, reliable cars that tend to be driven for a number of years. Honda clients replace them after an average of 7.1 years with 27% keeping the vehicle for over 10 years and 43% replacing it in under 5 years.

Subaru (Average 8.3 years)

Subaru is another brand renowned for safety and reliability. Subaru clients average 8.3 years before turning the vehicle in, with 42% keeping the vehicle for over 10 years and 34% replacing it in under 5 years. See how the Subaru Outback, Forester, and Ascent compare here.

Volvo (Average 9.0 years)

Volvo’s relentless focus on safety and reliability helps the brand top this list. Volvo clients tend to upgrade after 9.0 years with 48% keeping the vehicle for over 10 years and 22% replacing it in under 5 years. See how the Volvo XC40, XC60, and XC90 compare here.

Learn More at Cartelligent

No matter how long people keep different car brands or how long you plan to keep your next vehicle, Cartelligent can help you get a great deal on exactly what you want. Call our team of car-buying experts at 888-427-4270 or get started today.

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