Over the last several years there has been an increasing push among automakers, and a growing demand from consumers, to create fuel-efficient cars. Manufacturers have certainly made significant strides and it looks like that will be the case once again in 2012, according to a new report out of the University of Michigan.

Researchers at the school's Transportation Research Institute found that the average fuel economy of the new cars purchased during January reached its highest level ever at 23 miles per gallon. That includes all vehicles – even trucks and SUVS. The mark ties the previous high set in March of 2011 and is a substantial 4 percent jump from the month before.

There are a number of reasons for the findings, but experts say that one of biggest is that consumers are leaning toward buying more efficient cars as a whole. For instance, with more gas-friendly models of cars like the Ford F-150 and the Chevrolet Cruze hitting the market, more often than not drivers will choose the one that will save them the most at the pump. Still, none of this would be possible without the improved technology.

"Based on a related study we published in January, we found that over the past several years about two-thirds of the increase is due to improvements in vehicles, and about one-third is due to demand for better fuel economy by consumers," Brandon Schoettle, a co-author of the report, told USA Today.

Even if you'd rather purchase a used car over a new one, there are plenty of fuel-efficient models that have come out over the last several years that will fit the bill, and New Jersey State Auto Auction carries many of them. With a wide variety of products at affordable prices, there is certainly something for everyone.

Americans have found many different ways to save money in the midst of a turbulent economy, but one of the most popular has been holding on to cars longer than ever before. The average age of a vehicle on the road is approaching 11 years, and new car sales declined for two years in a row before rising again in 2011.

While some motorists may be tempted to go new as it becomes time to switch vehicles, there are a number of used cars out there that may be just as reliable for a fraction of the cost, according to TheStreet.com.

Smaller SUVs and crossovers have been some of the most popular and reliable cars over the past decade and for consumers looking to purchase a used car, that hasn't changed. In particular, The Street says that the Ford Escape is one of the best. The 2002 model, which was originally went for about $23,000 brand new can now be had for around $5,700. And while it may only get 20 miles per gallon, the XLT package provides drivers with 201 horsepower and considerable towing capability.

When it comes to sedans, it should come as no surprise that the Honda Accord is one of the best used options. The Accord is among the most regularly-seen cars on the road, and for good reason. The 2002 model offers 29 mile-per-gallon fuel efficiency and comes complete with a number of features that make its under-$6,000 price tag very appealing.

For a sportier option, consumers may want to check out the Acura RSX. The model has not been manufactured since 2006, but it was one of the more reliable cars out there that blended both speed and luxury at an affordable price, according to TheStreet.

Whether you're looking for an SUV, sedan, or two-door coupe, New Jersey State Auto Auction is the place to go. With a wide variety of makes and models there will certainly be something for you.

It's no surprise that small, fuel-efficient cars are popular among consumers. With an uncertain economy and high gas prices, it makes sense to downsize. However, there is one growing trend that may raise a few eyebrows. Over the last 10 years, vintage car enthusiasts have placed a premium on small Japanese cars and trucks from decades past, The Detroit News reports.

The tendency is largely driven through nostalgia. Though the cars are certainly reliable, many adults who came of age as Japanese vehicles were making a splash in the '70s and '80s find themselves yearning for the experience of driving them once more. And unlike other vintage cars, Japanese models are not only easy to find but affordable as well.

"It's a very special feeling I have for cars like these – the designs, the sound of the engines, the way they drive," Jun Imai, who owns two Datsuns from the 1970s, told the newspaper. "They are so distinctive, yet most are approachable in terms of costs and availability."

Though decades-old imports from Japan have become increasingly popular among vintage car enthusiasts, current models are just as trendy. In particular, the recently redesigned Toyota Camry was a hit among consumers. According to Motor Trend, the manufacturer sold 28,000 vehicles in January, and Camry led the way – selling 55.9 percent more than last January. Other Japanese companies also reported growth including Nissan, Scion and Honda.

Whether you're looking for an older Honda or a more recent Toyota, New Jersey State Auto Auction is likely to have you covered. With a wide variety of makes and models at affordable prices, there's something for everyone.

The Honda Odyssey has been one of the most popular minivans in the U.S. since it was first released, and the trend continued when it was announced that the Odyssey announced that it won the 2012 Motorweek Drivers' Choice Award for Best Minivan. It's familiar territory for the minivan, which has won the the distinction five times before.

It also marks the second consecutive year the Odyssey has earned the award, a feat it also accomplished in 1999 and 2000 as well as 2005 and 2006.  It's no surprise that the Odyssey is a favorite among drivers. In addition to getting 28 miles per gallon, an exceptionally high rate for minivans, it also ranks among one of the safest models. It is a top pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and earned the best possible rating from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.

"Beyond great packaging, class-leading fuel economy, unparalleled safety ratings and cutting-edge family-friendly features, the Odyssey was designed to be fun to drive." said Michael Accavitti, VP of marketing operations for American Honda. "Being honored with a Motorweek Driver's Choice Award for a second consecutive year confirms that the Odyssey remains the best minivan choice for those who truly enjoy driving."

Given the Odyssey's lengthy history of being a consumer favorite, if you're looking to buy a used minivan it may be one of the best choices. Whether you choose an older model like the 2005 version or a newer 2011 model, you know you'll be getting a reliable vehicle. Additionally, if you head to New Jersey State Auto Auction, you'll be getting a great deal.

The Chicago Auto Show opened its doors to the press this week, and the cars taking center stage are a bit different than those in years past. Automakers are showcasing their mid-size and compact vehicles this year, a stark change compared to the focus on SUVs at previous conventions, the Chicago Daily Herald reports.

The shift of focus may not come as much of a surprise given that many drivers have chosen to downsize over the last several years. With an unstable economy and gas prices still hovering near $4 a gallon, it makes sense for motorists to ditch the over-sized SUV, and manufacturers have certainly noticed the trend.

"We're seeing a definite migration from larger to smaller [vehicles]," Edmunds.com senior analyst Michelle Krebs told the newspaper. "Middle-America doesn't want to give up the SUV altogether but they're demanding far more in terms of economy and maneuverability."

Perhaps most indicative of the shifting attitudes is the fact that Chrysler unveiled its new Dodge Dart. Though it shares the name with sedan from the '60s and '70s, the redesigned Dart is supposedly much more reliable and wallet-friendly.  It's the first small car released by Chrysler since the manufacturer introduced the Neon.

Though the Chicago Auto Show may offer a glimpse into the future of compact cars, if you're in the market for one right now there are certain models that are safer than others, according to Forbes. One of the best picks is the Chevrolet Cruze, which comes with 10 airbags as well as an OnStar communications system with automatic crash notification.

Whether you're looking to downsize or stick with an SUV, New Jersey State Auto Auction has you covered. With a wide variety of makes and models at affordable prices, you're sure to find the right car.

When it comes time to buy a car, safety tends to be a top concern for many drivers. The Insurance Institutes for Highway Safety (IIHS) tests cars and offers consumers some guidance, by naming its Top Safety Picks. Forbes recently complied a list of small cars named IIHS Top Safety Picks, which can be a useful tool for drivers starting the search for their next cars.

The news source started out with the list of all of the IIHS Top Safety Picks from the 2012 model year, and then narrowed it down to the vehicles with the most safety features that help drivers avoid crashes in the first place and keep them safe in the event of an accident. The Audi A3, for example made the cut because if has front, front-side and side-curtain airbags for front-seat passengers as well as seat-mounted side impact air bags for those sitting in the backseat.

Toyota's Prius found its way onto the list thanks to the optional Lane Departure Warning system, which not only alerts drivers if they are drifting but can register if another vehicle on the road is approaching or traveling in the same direction. The Buick Verano, Chevrolet Cruze, and Chevy Volt all made it onto Forbes' list as well.

The IIHS doesn't just focus on small cars, so drivers who want something bigger are in luck. The Ford F-150 and Honda Ridgeline pickups both had top marks in IIHS testing. SUV fans can look to models like the Volkswagen Touareg, Hyundai Santa Fe, Dodge Durango and Ford Explorer among other for safe options for larger vehicles.

Those looking to get behind the wheel of an affordable, safe vehicle can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. The dealer offers affordable prices on a wide variety of used cars, and all of their vehicles are CARFAX certified so you know the vehicle you choose will be reliable.

The cost of a car extends much past its initial price tag. From insurance to maintenance to gas, the expenses can certainly add up. Of course, certain cars are less expensive to own than others, and Kelley Blue Book recently announced its picks for its inaugural Total Cost of Ownership Awards.

The honors were given in a number of different categories, but the cars that performed the best were Kia, tops among all automakers, and Audi, the best luxury brand. Kia set it self above the rest for several reasons, but perhaps most significant were the redesigns of many of its models. The manufacturer managed to create a new image while maintaining the affordable initial price and high gas mileage. Specifically, models like the Soul and Optima performed well.

As for Audi, according to KBB, its biggest strength is that the company's vehicles maintain their value extremely well over time. For most vehicles, depreciation is their biggest expense, but for Audi it's not a large obstacle. Additionally, the automaker's cars have superior fuel economy compared to other brands.

"Car shoppers should take the time to compare vehicles on their consideration lists to fully understand the financial implications involved with cost of ownership," said Juan Flores, director of vehicle valuation for Kelley Blue Book. "While a vehicle might be less expensive up front, the cost of fuel for that model, insurance and other expenditures could make it the less appealing choice for their wallet in the long run."

Whether you're looking for a reliable luxury brand like Audi or a more affordable car like the Kia Sportage, New Jersey State Auto Auction has you covered. With affordable prices up front, you'll be sure to get a good deal regardless of what car you choose.

Unless you have a very literal vanity plate, it's not every day you can get behind the wheel of something with your name emblazoned on it. However, one Illinois resident has managed to do just that – and he didn't even have to change his plates. Giving into years of pressure, Kevin Buick recently traded in his old model to purchase a vehicle baring his namesake, according to General Motors.

The decision was not a hard one for Buick. The Sycamore, Illinois, attorney, felt it was time for him to trade in his Subaru Outback and he decided to pick up a Buick Verano, one of the manufacturer's latest models. While it is certainly not uncommon to see somebody named Ford, any Buicks out there are far and few between.

"With my name, I've been asked if I drive a Buick for as long as I remember," Kevin said. "But the cars were never right for me. The Verano, though, is truly perfect in every way that I ask of a car. It honestly feels like it was made just for me, so it’s amusing that I get to step over my name embossed in the sill plate every time I get into my car.

Perhaps most intriguing is that Buick's name actually can be traced back to the founder of the brand David Dunbar Buick, though he is a distant relative.

While you may not share your name with your favorite manufacturer, New Jersey State Auto Auction will make sure that you get a good deal on whatever car you choose. Each vehicle is CARFAX certified so you know you are getting a reliable automobile once you drive it out of the lot for the first time.

Though they are separated by only a little more than 200 miles, New York and Boston could not be more different. Whether it comes to sports allegiances or personality, the fierce rivalry between the two cities is alive and well. That will certainly be on display this weekend as the New York Giants take on the New England Patriots in Super Bowl 46. It turns out that their differing opinions also extend to the road and car buying habits in each region vary greatly.

The lifestyle choices of the two regions are definitely reflected in which cars they choose. According to TrueCar.com, New Englanders overwhelmingly chose small SUVs and other cars that value function over form. In fact, of the top 10 vehicles purchased in New England, four are SUVs. The findings make sense if you consider that New Englanders are more likely to prefer outdoor activities than their neighbors to the south.

As for New Yorkers, it's clear that they value luxury much more than New Englanders. The top 10 cars purchased by Empire State residents included mostly cars and only two SUVs, and luxury brands such as Mercedes, Acura and BMW are well represented.

While what kind of car each fan base prefers likely will not have an impact on what happens on Super Bowl Sunday, it certainly does say a bit about their driving habits. New York does have an edge on one thing, however – it's proximity to New Jersey State Auto Auction. The reliable dealer has a wide variety of makes and models, even those to suit the higher-end tastes of New Yorkers.

Diesel-powered cars have long been popular in Europe, but they have yet to catch on in the United States. That may change in the near future, auto industry experts say, as surveys show Americans are becoming more comfortable with the idea of driving a car that runs on the alternative fuel, USA Today reports.

The growing trend is reflected by the results of a recent poll from auto-technology supplier Bosch. The company found 32 percent of respondents said they would consider purchasing a diesel-powered vehicle. While certainly not an overwhelming proportion of the population,  it is compared to 2006 when only 12 percent said the same thing.

The reason for the changing attitude may have to do with the fuel economy of diesel engines. According to the publication, they get about 30 percent better mileage on the highway, and although they may not perform as well around town, this is enough for some drivers.

Volkswagen has emerged as the leading manufacturer of diesel-powered cars in the United States. In fact, 85 percent of Volkswagen Jetta SportWagens are sold as diesel models. Additionally, 55 percent of Golfs sold are the same variety.

Though Volkswagen is currently the most popular, a number of other companies seem to be noticing the shifting trend. Many American-based manufacturers are planning on releasing diesel versions of popular models in the coming years. For instance, USA Today's Drive On blog reports that Chrysler is expected to release a diesel version of its Jeep Grand Cherokee as well as the Wrangler and Dodge Durango.

Whether you're looking for a diesel-powered car or a more traditional car, New Jersey State Auto Auction has plenty offer. With a wide variety of makes and models at affordable prices, there is certainly something for everyone.