The 5 Best Used Cars Under $10,000

Consumer Reports's latest car issue lists of the most reliable fuel-efficient used cars on the market. That reminds us that for fuel efficiency, for "sticker" price and often for reliability, used cars are a better value than new cars, even the most fuel-efficient models. Of course, as Consumer Reports notes, even used cars can cost upwards of $20,000 — not exactly cheap, especially since you can get at least 7 fuel-efficient 2010 cars for under $20,000.

Here's a look at Consumer Reports' top 5 fuel-efficient used cars under $10,000, along with the mileage you can expect (complete list).

• 2000-01 Honda Insight (manual) - 51 mpg (pictured)
• 2001-2004 Toyota Prius - 44 mpg (2004 only; otherwise 41 mpg)
• 2000-05 Toyota Echo - 38 mpg
• 2003-05 Honda Civic Hybrid - 36 mpg
• 2007 Toyota Yaris Liftback (base, manual) - 34 mpg

If you like to buy American, or worry because of recent Toyota recalls, then go for the 2000-02 Chevrolet Prizm, which at 32 mpg, is the only American car to make the under-$10,000 reliable fuel-efficient used car list.

But buying a used car can be more challenging than buying new, for those who don't consider themselves car buffs. It takes more research (try Edmunds.com to start). How do you know you're getting a good value? And who can you turn to if something goes wrong? That's what makes the Consumer Reports list invaluable.

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