Kelley Blue Book recently unveiled the winners of its Brand Image Awards, and longtime consumer favorite Honda came out on top. The manufacturer took home wins in two of the most coveted categories, while American-made brands such as Ford and Cadillac also performed well.

The study is based on consumer perception, and names winners in 12 different categories. Honda came home with two wins: Most Trusted Brand and Best Value Brand. The fact that Honda was named the Most Trusted Brand did not surprised analysts at Kelley Blue Book, who say the automaker has become known for its reliability and dependability over the years. Additionally, it scored well in terms of value because of its usually high resale price and high gas mileage.

Although Honda earned two of the top awards, Ford performed especially well too. In particular, it was recognized in four different categories, including Most Family-Friendly Brand. Kelley Blue Book believes the company has the re-tooled Explorer to thank for the family-friendly perception. Ford also was top in Best Interior Design – Non-Luxury, Most Rugged Truck Brand, and Best Exterior Design – Non-Luxury.

As for luxury cars, Cadillac and BMW performed well in terms of design, while Porsche was named Coolest Brand. Although the findings reflect consumer feelings toward particular brands, experts say it speaks volumes about their quality.

"Image isn't everything but it is more than enough to get shoppers into the store, and that's half the battle for automakers and their dealers," said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. 

If you're looking to get behind the wheel of any of these vehicles, whether it be a used Ford or used Honda, you should head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. With a wide variety of makes and models at affordable prices, there's sure to be the car for you.