People who have bought fuel-efficient vehicles may be finding that their cars are able to withstand the test of time in terms of investments, as some individuals are turning a profit when selling a fairly new environmentally friendly vehicle.

The New York Times reports that used car values are increasing dramatically for fuel-efficient automobiles, as there is a high demand from American consumers due to the rising gas prices.

For example, compact cars that are between one and five years old are now worth 30 percent more than they were six months ago, according to the news source.

"There's just so many things hitting the market all at once," Alec Gutierrez, manager of used-car pricing at Kelley Blue Book, told the news provider. "For those really hot, in-demand cars, we're seeing one- and two-year-old vehicles that are selling for very close to [sticker price.]"

Consumers who are looking to purchase a used fuel-efficient car may want to check out New Jersey Auto Auction, which has a variety of models that will be sure to fit anyone's preference.

Used cars are often the best choice for consumers looking to save money on a quality automobiles. But sometimes it can be overwhelming to decide on a particular make and model since there are so many options at their disposal. To help make the decision process a little bit easier, Edmunds.com recently released its list of the top 15 used cars for 2011.

Drivers looking to hop into a midsized sedan will want to check out versions of the Nissan Altima made between 2004 and 2009, according to the news source. The Altima scored so high because of its high performance V-6 engine as well as its exceptionally smooth operation and increased fuel economy. As for smaller cars, the best used compact sedan around right now is the Hyundai Elantra.

However, families looking for a use car that is able to fit plenty of passengers and other items will want to look into the 2004 to 2009 Ford Explorer, which is considered to be the best midsize SUV or crossover. In addition to plenty of family-friendly features, the Ford Explorer offers substantial towing capacity.

When it comes to pickup trucks, Edmunds says the best choice is the Toyota Tacoma, mainly because of its versatility. The popular truck can fit the mold of everything from a street vehicle to off-roading. The Ford F-150 was mentioned as well as good chioce for full-size pickups.

The Toyota Prius stood out among hybrids, the website says. More than just its optimum fuel efficiency, the Prius provides a spacious interior as well as excellent performance.

The list was compiled by auto experts at Edmunds and focused on a number of factors that are most important to drivers across the country. Among the issues they took into consideration were reliability, safety, value and availability, and to be eligible to be included on the list, each car had to be in a range of 2 to 7 years old.

"With used car prices still soaring, it’s important for consumers to have expert guidance to get the best value," said Scott Oldham, editor-in-chief of Edmunds.com. "By taking into consideration a range of factors from consumer ratings, to NHTSA crash safety tests, to True Cost to Own metrics, these cars are the most attractive options in the used car market."

Whether looking for a midsize sedan or a spacious SUV, New Jersey Automotive Auction has plenty of used cars at affordable prices.  

Sports car drivers are likely known more for their affinity for speed than having a penchant for saving money, but results of a new study may be changing their perception. USA Today reports that a new survey found fuel economy topped the list of what sports car buyers look for in a vehicle.

The study, which was released by Ford and conducted by Martiz Research, found that 42 percent of respondent said fuel economy was very important, with 37 percent saying it was their largest determining factor.

The numbers are indicative of a growing push from Ford to provide better fuel economy in all of its models, including muscle cars like the Mustang.

"Since December, we have seen industry-wide small car purchases increase from 19 percent  to 24 percent," sales analyst George Pipas told the news source. "It drives home the point that consumers are looking at more fuel-efficient choices."

Whether looking for a powerful used car or a fuel-efficient hybrid like the Ford Fusion, New Jersey Auto Auction has pre-owned vehicles at an affordable price.