Consumer Reports ranks used cars for the first time

For the first time in its history, Consumer Reports is offering used-car shoppers its picks on the best makes and models.

The company, which has traditionally only offered top picks for new cars, said the decision to offer the new listing was in recognition of the historically high price of new cars and the fact that more and more people are focusing on pre-owned options these days.

“They shouldn’t have to sacrifice safety, reliability, or fuel economy to stay within their budget,” said Alex Knizek, manager of automotive testing and insights for Consumer Reports. “That’s why we created these Used Car Top Picks and are expanding our used-car coverage and insights.”

The magazine kept the picks under $20,000—and noted that a great new car isn’t necessarily a great used one, given factors like depreciation and long-term reliability. It also warned people to have the car inspected before purchasing, even if they went with a Consumer Reports pick.

Lexus and Toyota topped the list, which looked at 26 different brands. Mazda came in third. Tesla, Dodge, and Chrysler were ranked at the bottom.

“Brands like Lexus and Toyota have a history of conservative redesigns, incrementally improving their entire product line, rather than introducing many all-new systems,” says Steven Elek, Consumer Reports’ program leader for auto data analytics. “Our data consistently shows over time that new cars from those brands are reliable when new and they continue to be reliable as they age.”

Here’s how the picks shook out.