Used vehicle prices have fluctuated more in 2008 than in any other year in recent history. Gas-guzzlers are seeing prices sink, gas-sippers are on the rise, so you might find better prices than listed here.
Under $4,000: The Consumer Reports listing of best used cars under $4,000 came out in April, and already many of its recommendations cost more than $4,000. In our research, we found real-sized cars, including the 93 Acura (a legendarily long-lasting car), the 97 Ford Taurus, and the 96 Volkswagen Jetta.
$4,000 to $6,000: From 95 to 97, Toyota's Camry and Corolla, or Honda's Civic andAccord. Widely
regarded among the finest cars on the market, they hold their value well. Adjust the years and price and these cars would be on every single "Best of" list.
$6,000 to $8,000: The 03 Hyundai Elantra, the 01
Jeep Cherokee or the 96 Lexus ES300. Reliability-wise, the Lexus is on the way to rewriting the record books (a 98 Lexus will have fewer reported problems than an 06 Volkswagen).
$8,000 to $10,000: In trucks, an 01 Dodge Dakota, in SUVs, an 01-03 Ford Escape or Mazda Tribute, and in a crossover, an 01 Subaru Legacy. Looking for a minivan? The Kia Sedona was widely overlooked despite rave reviews from auto critics. You can find an 04 for around $8,500.
$10,000 to $12,000: Consider an 04 Dodge PT Cruiser, an 04 Scion XB, or an 05 Chrysler Sebring convertible. You can find a nice Nissan Sentra or Chevy Malibu in this price range, too.
