There used to be a dramatic difference in quality between smaller and larger vehicles, but that is quickly becoming a thing of the past. J.D. Power and Associates recently released findings from the annual Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, which shows more than twice as many drivers "downd," or downsized when they traded in their old vehicle for a new one, than those who "upd," replaced their old model with one from a larger segment.

The former group accounted for 27 percent of new-vehicle buyers, while the latter made up 13 percent of this group. The remaining 60 percent stayed within the same segment when replacing their old cars. The study found that trade-in cars were on average about 6 years old, and since these drivers have last purchased new cars, there have been major changes and advancements across the board that have made smaller vehicles more appealing.

"New-vehicle buyers who down are not making sacrifices that they once were," said David Sargent, vice president of global automotive at J.D. Power and Associates. "Automakers are heavily focused on providing the U.S. market with appealing smaller models, and buyers may be surprised at just how good some of them are"

Smaller vehicles these days provide better performance, fuel economy, styling and features than many older models. That's not to say older compact and subcompact vehicles are lacking in quality. There are plenty of options available for drivers looking to purchase used vehicles at New Jersey State Auto. Every vehicle on the dealer's lot is CARFAX certified, so buyers know they'll be driving away in reliable rides.