Kbb.com Editors Name 10 Best Used Cars Under $8,000

IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 5, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Kelley Blue Book www.kbb.com, the leading provider of new car and used car information, today announces the 10 Best Used Cars Under $8,000 (http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/10-best-used-cars-under-8000/).

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As economic conditions in the U.S. continue in a state of flux, many find themselves unable to afford a new car and unwilling to place themselves under a large car loan to get one. As more consumers shift their gaze from new cars to used, it's becoming harder every day to find quality used cars, let alone at a great price. However, there are still ways to get into a good (and modern) vehicle without spending too much money.

"We first compiled all the used cars 2002 and newer with a Kelley Blue Book^® Retail Value of less than $8,000 as of December 2011," said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director for Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. "We then went through the list and handpicked the 10 used cars with the most appealing mixes of reliability, versatility and desirability, with an emphasis on track record.  The vehicles on our short list offer incredible value for today's budget-conscious car shopper."

10 Best Used Cars Under $8,000

#10: 2008 Kia Rio

The 2008 Kia Rio is the newest car on our list, and still covered under its original factory warranty. A great value as a new car, the Rio not only provides reliable performance in the subcompact market, but can be found in a number of trim levels, potentially making the value for your used car dollar even greater.

Kelley Blue Book Retail Value as of December 2011: $7,895

#9: 2004 Ford Crown Victoria

The Crown Victoria is big, proven and an American classic. With the discontinuation of the Crown Vic in the U.S., the desirability of good used examples is only going to rise. While you can, snag one of these great sedans for great value.

Kelley Blue Book Retail Value as of December 2011: $7,970

#8: 2003 Mazda Protege5

The 2003 Protege5 gives you spirited handling, good gas mileage, and in this 5-door wagon configuration, great utility as well. If you're looking for a practical daily driver with a decent fun streak in its roots, the Protege5 deserves a serious look.   

Kelley Blue Book Retail Value as of December 2011: $7,360

#7: 2002 Toyota Tundra Standard Cab

Those looking for a used full-size pickup truck should seriously consider the 2002 Tundra. A bit spartan but with surprising handling and legendary reliability on its side, the Tundra offers a unique mix of capability and value. With its smooth and durable V8 engine, a used Tundra will return thousands of sure-footed miles.

Kelley Blue Book Retail Value as of December 2011: $5,925

#6: 2003 Ford Escape

Easy to drive, convenient and reliable, the Escape provides ample space for grocery-getting without being overwrought in weight or size. A comfortable ride helps solidify Ford's popular compact SUV a spot on this list.

Kelley Blue Book Retail Value as of December 2011: $7,560

For the full list of 10 Best Used Cars Under $8,000 from Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com, visit http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/10-best-used-cars-under-8000/.

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About Kelley Blue Book (www.kbb.com)

Founded in 1926, Kelley Blue Book, The Trusted Resource®, is the only vehicle valuation and information source trusted and relied upon by both consumers and the industry.  Each week the company provides the most market-reflective values in the industry on its top-rated website www.kbb.com, including its famous Blue Book® Trade-In and Retail Values and Fair Purchase Price, which reports what others are paying for new cars this week.  The company also provides vehicle pricing and values through various products and services available to car dealers, auto manufacturers, finance and insurance companies as well as governmental agencies.  Kbb.com provides consumer pricing and information on minivans, pickup-trucks, sedan, hybrids, electric cars, and SUVs.  Kelley Blue Book Co. Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of AutoTrader.com.

SOURCE Kelley Blue Book