Used cars can offer drivers a reliable set of wheels at a fraction of the cost of new models, but you have to know where to look. There are certainly vehicles that are simply better deals and if you're looking to keep your spending under $8,000, The Street reports that there are a few options that stand above the rest.

Kia has been rising in popularity in recent years, so it's no wonder that the 2008 Kia Rio made it on the list. Kelley Blue Book values the car at around $7,680 and given that it's just four years old, it may be the closest thing you can get to new for such an affordable price.

Anybody looking for a pickup without a steep price tag should consider the 2002 Toyota Tundra. According to the website, its KBB retail value is a modest $5,950, and although it's 10 years old, given Toyota's track record of reliable vehicles that should not be a problem – especially if you take good care of it.

"Toyota was an underdog in pickup trucks then, and it still is, but the Tundra has proven to be a good truck and it meets all the [reliability] expectations that come with a Toyota,"  Jason Allan, the kbb.com managing editor, told the website.

Similar to the Tundra, the 2002 Toyota Corolla is a good choice as well. With a price tag of just over $6,000 the Corolla is likely to remain among the most popular used cars on the road.

Regardless of what vehicle you're looking for, New Jersey State Auto Auction will have you covered. With a wide variety of makes and models there's sure to be one to suit your needs.