CONSUMER REPORTS Japanese models top used cars list

Japan had 15 of the 18 bargains; the United States had the other three.
CBS MARKETWATCH
SAN FRANCISCO -- U.S. automakers may be making gains in quality, but Japanese cars still trounce other makes when it comes to reliable used vehicles, according to Consumer Reports' latest list of top used-car gems.
From Honda's Civic EX to the Toyota Camry XLE V6, the Subaru Forester and the Nissan Pathfinder, Japanese-made autos dominated the list of best-value cars, comprising 15 of the 18 bargains.
The three others were U.S. models. Cars made in Germany, Sweden, Korea and elsewhere were no-shows on the list.
The chosen cars have "proved reliable, performed well in Consumer Reports' tests when new, and offer excellent value for the money," the consumer-advocacy group said in a release.
The 1999 Lincoln Town Car Executive earned a nod because rapid depreciation of that model created a bargain, with feature-rich cars available at an average price of $11,000.
On the less luxurious side, the 1999 Ford Escort and the 2000 Buick Regal, at about $4,000 and $9,000, respectively, make for good value though they lack "refinement and interior quality," according to the Consumer Reports' release.
For about $6,000, a 1996 Honda Civic EX or a 1999 Mazda Protege ES offer reliability and economy. Those wanting lower mileage can expect to shell out about $9,500 for the 2001 Honda Civic EX, another good value, according to the report.
The 1996 Infiniti G20 is a sporty, "well put-together" auto available for those on more limited means, about $5,500.
If you're out shopping and can't remember the model year, consider buying a 1996. Eight of the 18 cars highlighted by Consumer Reports are from that year. All four SUVs on the list are 1998 models.
The 18 autos were the highlights of Consumer Reports' new Used Car Yearbook, which details 256 models from 1995 to 2002.