Canadian car buyers looking for models that best keep their residual value may want to consult J.D. Power’s latest award winners.

The J.D. Power 2026 Canada ALG Residual Value Awards, released on Jan. 14, recognize manufacturers and vehicle models with the highest residual values in their segments. Residual value is based on a forecasted future value of a vehicle.

At the brand level, Toyota and Lexus led the way, again. Toyota was named the top mainstream brand for the seventh consecutive year while Lexus gained the top luxury brand award for the sixth straight year. Toyota has seven vehicles recognized in their segments while Lexus has three.

“We’re proud of these awards as they recognize consumers continue to get the best possible value over the long term when purchasing their new vehicle from Toyota or Lexus,” said Robert Tsang, vice president of sales and marketing at Toyota Canada, in a news release.”

Segment winners

For 2026, J.D. Power named winners in 26 segments. Some awards are split by pairs of vehicles. Check out the winners below.

Passenger car segments

• Compact car – Toyota Corolla
• Compact premium car – Cadillac CT4, Volvo V60
• Compact premium sporty car – Nissan Z
• Small premium car – Mercedes-Benz CLA
• Midsize car – Toyota Camry
• Midsize premium car – Cadillac CT5, Genesis G80
• Midsize premium sporty car – Chevrolet Corvette
• Large premium car – Mercedes-Benz AMG GT 4-Door
• Sporty car – Subaru WRX

Utility vehicle segments

• Compact premium SUV – Lexus NX
• Compact SUV – Subaru Forester
• Large premium SUV – Lexus LX
• Large SUV – Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon
• Midsize premium SUV – Acura MDX
• Midsize SUV – Toyota Highlander
• Small premium SUV – Lexus UX
• Small SUV – Toyota Corolla Cross

Electric, pickup and van segments

• Premium electric car – Porsche Taycan
• Electric SUV – Subaru Solterra
• Electric truck – GMC Hummer EV SUT
• Premium electric SUV – GMC Hummer EV SUV
• Large heavy duty pickup – Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD
• Large light duty pickup – Toyota Tundra
• Midsize pickup – Toyota Tacoma
• Commercial van – GMC Savana
• Minivan – Toyota Sienna

How are winners chosen?

J.D. Power said it uses numerous variables to forecast a vehicle’s residual value. Variables include mileage, quality/reliability, options and feature sets and the macroeconomic environment.

“Brands that consistently retain higher Rvs (residual values) have a broad vehicle line-up that appeals to many customers and with that, do not over-complicate their vehicles,” said Danny Battaglia, managing director of ALG customer success at J.D. Power, in a news release. “Additionally, pricing plays a big role here. Staying competitive in the market while maintaining their reliability and emotional appeal ensures the top brands stay at the top.”

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