10 Used Cars To Consider Before Buying New

The biggest change in the base model, though, was the 2.4-liter Power Tech engine that replaced the old 2.5-liter version with the Jeep since its days at American Motors. It still has the boxy look, the 4x4 capability and off-road chops of its predecessors, though, which is all most fans look for and the biggest reason they still pay big money for it today.

2. Toyota Corolla
Trim: CE Sedan
Original MSRP: $14,055
KBB private party value: $5,550
Retained value 39.5%

While the Corolla was popular to begin with, a complete overhaul in 2003 made even the base model a sought-after commodity.

A new 130-hp 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine gave it more power, but didn't detract a bit from its impressive combined 32-miles-per-gallon fuel efficiency. This is even more impressive when you consider that the 2003 Corolla is larger and 50 pounds heavier than its 2002 predecessor.

That gives the driver and passengers a whole lot of cabin space while increasing trunk space to nearly 14 cubic feet, which is on the larger side for a vehicle of this size. Most importantly, though, Toyota didn't shortchange its base-model customers and threw in air conditioning with micron filtration, a CD player, power steering, power mirrors, an outside temperature gauge, 60/40 split-folding rear seats and 15-inch wheels for their trouble.

Though Toyota had an impressive nine vehicles on KBB's 30-vehicle list, the 2003 Corolla offers extraordinary value for its relatively scant asking price.

1. Toyota Tacoma
Trim: Double Cab PreRunner 4D 5 foot pickup
Original MSRP: $18,820
KBB private party value: $8,250
Retained value 43.8%

The Tacoma has taken Kelley Blue Book's best resale value award 10 times for one big reason: You can beat the hell out of it and it'll come back for more.