Why You Should Consider a Four-Wheel-Drive Model Like a Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco if You are Buying an SUV

In case you haven’t looked recently, new vehicles have become incredibly expensive. Some people have even opted for seven year loans and the average monthly payment is close to one thousand dollars. It is important to consider how much a vehicle will be worth in the long run. The recent J.D. Power study of residual value shows an interesting trend with four- wheel-drive models like the 2026 Jeep Wrangler and the 2026 Ford Bronco holding value longer than other SUVs. 

2026 Jeep Wrangler 

The annual awards set the automotive industry standard for predicting which vehicle models will retain the highest percentage of their manufacturer’s suggested retail price over a three-year period of ownership. 

 “The Jeep Wrangler’s recognition in the J.D. Power ALG Residual Value Awards underscores its enduring strength in the market,” said Jeff Kommor, head of U.S. retail sales. “Among the many reasons customers choose a Wrangler are for its capability, authenticity and long‑term value, and this honor reinforces why it remains the benchmark in the segment.”

Jeep says its 2026 Wrangler is its most technologically advanced ever. The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon delivers a best-in-class available 100:1 crawl ratio, best-in-class available 5,000-lb. towing, segment-exclusive, integrated, off-road trail guides, and a best-in-class available approach angle on four-door models. Jeep is dedicating 2026 to reinvigorating the Wrangler, promising new trim levels and advancements monthly. The company has dropped prices, dropped the 4xe powertrain and is concentrating on the attributes that made Wrangler a legend in the industry. 

2026 Ford Bronco

Similarly, the Ford Bronco was rated by J.D. Power as the SUV most likely to hold its residual value the best. The Bronco and Bronco Sport stormed back onto the automotive scene a few years ago and has been a huge hit for the Blue Oval. The Bronco is giving the Jeep Wrangler a run for its money in the off-roading arena and the Bronco’s popularity is reflected in the fact that it is holding more of its value than many other SUVs.  

Ford has invested heavily in the Bronco line since its reintroduction. It has created Raptor versions and has started holding events nationwide building Bronco off-roading communities. 

The J.D. Power Residual Value Awards

The J.D. Power Residual Value Awards assess the estimated worth of a vehicle at the end of its lease term. Even though three of four years is a relatively short time, the residual value is a key indicator of long-term resale value and affordability. Overall, Tesla and Toyota had the strongest results, with several models holding their value longer than other similar brand’s models.

"Strong wholesale retention, solid brand value and a disciplined approach on rental fleet and incentives propelled Toyota to the top spot among mainstream brands," said Danny Battaglia, managing director of ALG customer success at J.D. Power. "Toyota topped six segments for 2026, including a four-peat for GR Supra and five-peat for Tundra. Meanwhile, Tesla avoided the high incentives of other luxury battery electric vehicle brands in 2025. That helped earn it the top rank among luxury brands with the highest performers in three segments–including the refreshed Model Y, which included introduction of a lower-priced base version and additional content on midlevel trims.” 

For model-year 2026, 14 different brands receive awards in 26 segments. The 2026 award process consisted of evaluating 300 models through analysis of used-vehicle performance, brand outlook and product competitiveness.  

Toyota received residual value awards for the GR Supra, GR86, Camry, Sequoia, Tundra and Tacoma. Tesla’s Model 3, Model Y and Cybertruck all held their value relatively well. 

The Chevrolet Corvette and Silverado 3500 HD also earned awards for holding value. You can see the full list here. 

Numerous variables affect the actual residual value of a vehicle over a multi-year lease term. Among them are mileage, condition, features and pricing. The bottom line is that while cars and trucks continue to become more expensive, it is important to consider what works best for your situation and what vehicle will be worth more in the long run.

Jeep Photo

Mary Conway is a professional automotive journalist and has decades of experience specializing in automotive news analysis. She covered the Detroit Three for more than twenty years for the ABC affiliate, in Detroit. Her affection for the Motor City comes naturally. Her father ran a gas station while Mary was growing up, in Wisconsin.

Follow Mary Conway at @MaryConwayMedia and send her car news tips for future stories.