The brand of a vehicle can have a significant impact on the buying process for drivers. Although you may start the task with an open mind, it's easy to be swayed by the opinions of peers and experts, attractive prices, flashy commercials or anything else you encounter as you shop. 

With positive reviews, impressive car sales and plenty of other promising news dominating the headlines, it was easy for some brands to separate themselves from the rest with regard to auto sales. According to IHS Automotive, there were five brands that boasted major increases in business in 2013. A few of these top performers were luxury automakers, such as Maserati and Jaguar, but others were more affordable manufacturers that may be appealing to everyday drivers. 

One option is Subaru. Superior safety features, comfortable interiors and family friendly amenities make models like the Forester, BR-Z and Impreza highly regarded. Ram also stood apart from competitors, in large part because the Ram 1500 pickup truck is ranked among the best on the market. 

Drivers who want a slightly more luxurious option may appreciate the success Cadillac had in 2013. That brand stood out with creations like the Escalade, SRX and ATS, which helped it outperform similar automakers like BMW and Mercedes-Benz. 

While these five brands may have stood out from the rest, that doesn't mean they were the only ones to perform well in 2013. In fact, the vast majority of the segment had a successful year, which in turn opens many doors for prospective buyers. 

No matter what brands you're considering for your purchase, you may be able to find what you're looking for at NJ State Auto. The auction lot is home to hundreds of Carfax-certified cars, trucks and vans, including many that blend high-quality performance with an affordable price tag.