For drivers thinking about buying a used car, the options may seem endless. Choosing from a wide selection of makes, models, years and colors is a difficult task, but in recent years the economic landscape played a greater role in this process than personal preference. However, now that the U.S. economy is on the road to recovery and gas prices are dropping back down from their record highs, prospective buyers have more options when they hit a used car lot. 

The Detroit Free Press reported that more Americans are starting to consider pickup trucks and SUVs when searching for a car. The recession caused many to look for smaller, compact models that boasted excellent fuel efficiency, but with gas prices returning to a manageable level and many recent pickup models improving mileage, these larger vehicles are becoming more attractive to drivers. 

"It is almost a perfect storm right now for truck sales to be strong," Jessica Caldwell, of Edmunds.com, told The Detroit Free Press. "And there is pent-up demand in that market as well." 

According to AAA, the current average cost of a gallon of gas is $3.25, which is lowest it has been in nearly a year. That price is also 11 cents cheaper than just one month ago, and the figure looks to keep falling. The ability to refuel without breaking the bank is one that all drivers want, so the fact that the pump prices are dropping may open up many opportunities for future car buyers. 

For a look at some of the best used pickup trucks available, head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. The lot is home to hundreds of CARFAX-certified vehicles, and one of the trucks could prove to be the right choice for a driver on the hunt for a pre-owned automobile.