Edmunds picks its 15 best used car bets

(June 22, 2011) SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Edmunds.com has released its 15 best used car bets for 2011. A total of 11 makes are represented on the list, with four makes (Ford, Honda, Hyundai and Toyota) each contributing two models.

The 2011 used car best used car include (by segment):

Compact Sedan: 2004-2009 Hyundai Elantra
Midsize Sedan: 2004-2009 Nissan Altima
Large Sedan: 2006-2009 Hyundai Azera
Coupe: 2004-2009 BMW 3 Series
Convertible: 2004-2009 Mazda Miata
Wagon: 2004-2009 Pontiac Vibe
Compact SUV/Crossover: 2004-2009 Honda CR-V
Midsize SUV/Crossover: 2004-2009 Ford Explorer
Large SUV/Crossover: 2004-2009 Chevrolet Tahoe
Minivan/Van: 2004-2009 Honda Odyssey
Compact Truck: 2004-2009 Toyota Tacoma
Large Truck: 2004-2009 Ford F-150
Luxury: 2004-2009 Infiniti G35/G37
Hybrid: 2004-2009 Toyota Prius
Sport Compact: 2004-2009 Subaru Impreza WRX

A team of Edmunds.com editors assembled the list, which emphasizes the most important criteria to consider when researching and deciding on a used vehicle: reliability, safety, value and availability. Eligibility was limited to vehicles ranging in age from 2 to 7 years.

"With used car prices still soaring, it's important for consumers to have expert guidance to get the best value," said Scott Oldham, editor-in-chief of Edmunds.com. "By taking into consideration a range of factors from consumer ratings, to NHTSA crash safety tests, to True Cost to Own metrics, these cars are the most attractive options in the used car market."

For more details on Edmunds.com's selection process and for a brief description of all the cars on this year's list, visit Edmunds.com's "2011 Used Car Best Bets."