'Worst car for depreciation’ in UK revealed with model holding just 30% value

New Renault Zoe

Experts claim The Renault Zoe is the worst for depreciation (Image: Getty)

The worst car for depreciation in the UK has been revealed with experts placing a model from French manufacturer Renault at the top of the list. Motoring specialists at Carmoola have suggested the electric Renault Zoe has lost the most value on the road, with vehicles retaining just 30% of their original price.

The Zoe was discontinued last year, with the model taken off sale in 2023 and production officially ending in March 2024. The Zoe was one of the best-selling electric cars in Europe but Renault bosses decided to axe production to focus on the new Renault R5. The Zoe is understood to have sold more than 30,000 units in the UK and was the ‘bestselling EV’ back in 2015 and 2016.

Renault Zoe

Renault Zoe models retain just 30% of their value (Image: Getty)

However, Carmoola has suggested that owners are noticing second-hand values dropping with depreciation a major worry.

Carmoola said: “For the second year running, Renault Zoe is the UK’s worst car for depreciation. With the model now discontinued and outshone by the retro-styled Renault 5, three-year-old Zoes are holding just 30% of their original value.”

When they were still available on the market, Renault Zoe models started at around £29,995 brand new. However, second-hand prices are a lot affordable with vehicles now often selling for between £5,000 and £10,000.

Renault car models parked outdoors, availability different car types for consumers, automotive sales and urban transportation options in Germany, Sust

The Zoe was one of the best-selling EVs in Europe (Image: Getty)

Carwow has second-hand Zoe models listed from £8,300, with some available for a bit less. Used car marketplace AutoTrader even has some examples available for under £5,000, making it one of the most affordable entry-level EVs on the market.

AutoTrader said: “The Zoe focuses on practicality by offering ample room and a quiet and comfortable cabin space. It also has one of the best warranty covers in its class, which means that it's possible to find second-hand Renault Zoe still under the cover if the owner is selling it within five years from purchase.”

The Zoe was fitted with a 52 kWh battery which provided a range of around 245 miles on a single charge. The model had a top speed of around 87mph, with the car capable of reaching 0-62mph in just 9.5 seconds.

The Zoe is also equipped with 338 litres of boot space and over 1,200 litres once the rear seats are folded down.

Express.co.uk has contacted Renault for comment.