Drivers are always looking to make a good investment when purchasing a vehicle. To help prospective owners find the best cars at any price tag, Consumer Reports has released its rankings of the Best & Worst Used Cars in a variety of budgets. The picks encompass all models and are from 2003 to 2012, but a few stood apart from the pack as great choices for drivers who want a car with affordable vehicle maintenance.
"With so many choices, shopping for a used car can be overwhelming," said Rik Paul, an auto editor for Consumer Reports. "Our report provides a much-needed cheat sheet that Americans can refer to for help getting the best and most reliable used car that fits their budget."
When it came to choosing the best small cars at an average price of between $10,000 and $15,000, the 2010 to 2011 Toyota Prius and the 2011 to 2012 Hyundai Elantra landed in the top spot. A combination of great fuel efficiency, sleek designs and smooth handling helped these sedans stand out. The 2007 Honda Pilot and the 2009 Mazda CX-9 took the crown as the SUVs with the most bang for your buck, and the 2011 to 2012 Toyota Camry won accolades among sedans.
Other models were recognized based on their price tags, which ranged from under $10,000 to above $25,000, so drivers can take a look at the cars that pique their interest while also learning which ones to stay away from.