YONKERS, N.Y. -

Though low used supply has pushed pre-owned prices up in the past couple of years, there are still deals out there — a fact Consumer Reports brought to the front of  buyers’ minds today. 

In an effort to help Americans choose the best used car for their money, Consumer Reports compiled a Best & Worst Used Cars list for model years 2003 through 2012.

The list with the best used cars — which highlights sedans, SUVs, and small cars available in four price ranges: from $10,000 or less up to $25,000 — includes vehicles ranging from the fuel-efficiant Toyota Prius to the roomy Honda Pilot.

"With so many choices, shopping for a used car can be overwhelming. 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," said Rik Paul, auto editor, Consumer Reports.

So, how did Consumer Reports choose the units that made the cut?

Each unit on the list "performed well in CR's testing when new and had above-average reliability for the model years shown, based on CR's Annual Auto Survey," according to the publication. 

On the other hand, the Consumer Reports worst used cars list includes 2003 to 2012 models that have had multiple years of much-worse-than-average overall reliability, according to CR's Annual Auto Survey.

Among the twenty models that made the list are the BMW 7 Series, the Ford Explorer (V6, 4WD), the Kia Sorento (V6) and the Mini Cooper S.

Which vehicles, though, were among the best?

In the $15,000–$20,000 price range the following cars made Consumer Reports' list of best used cars with commentary from editors:

Small Cars: 2010–11 Toyota Prius and 2011–12 Hyundai Elantra (sedan)

"At 44 mpg overall, the Prius delivers the best gas mileage of any non-plug-in, five-passenger vehicle. The 2010 redesign brought more room, better brakes and sound but not agile handling.  For a more enjoyable driving experience, look for a Hyundai Elantra sedan."

Sedans: 2011–12 Toyota Camry (4-cyl.) and 2006–07 Infiniti M

"Expect impressive 26 to 27 mpg overall with the four-cylinder Camry in addition to a roomy cabin and superb reliability. If a powerful engine and luxurious interior are your passion, opt for the Infiniti M with the V6."

SUVs: 2007–08 Honda Pilot and 2009 Mazda CX-9

"The Pilot combines a roomy cabin, good driving dynamics, seating for eight and respectable fuel economy in a package that isn't too big to fit in your garage. But road noise is a bit pronounced.  The Mazda CX-9 is a more agile alternative with an even roomier third-row seat."

For the complete lists, see ConsumerReports.org.

Editor’s Note: On Monday, Cars.com revealed a list of the top 10 used cars under $10,000. See the Auto Remarketing story here for more details.
 

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