In a recent report discussing the certified pre-owned segment’s emergence as a viable option in the auto marketplace, MSN Autos revealed the top-10 best selling CPO models for the first half of 2010, and offered a bit of commentary on each vehicle.

So which model topped the list? According to the report, the No. 1 ride is the Honda Accord, which MSN Autos writer Kirk Bell said has been one of best-selling CPO models “for many years,” as has the Toyota Camry, which ranked third.

“The Accord is a well-engineered car. It’s larger inside and out than any of its competitors yet weighs less than all of them, which gives it fine handling characteristics and impressive fuel economy,” wrote Bell, who authored the story. “Both of its engines are quite capable, and the interior environment is modern but inviting.

“The Accord is a reliable car that delivers great value for the dollar, but be careful how much you pay,” he added. “The Accord holds a high resale value, so it will cost you more up front but will bring more when it’s time to sell.”

Honda had three vehicles cracked the top 10, as the Civic came in fourth and the Odyssey was No. 9. Three Toyota vehicles also were among the best sellers through June, including the Camry at No. 3, the Corolla at No. 6 and the Lexus RX in 10th.

BMW was represented with two models, including the 3-Series in second.

“The new BMW 3-Series is one of the best-handling, most driver-oriented vehicles on the market, but it is priced out of reach for many of us. However, a two- or three-year-old 3-Series with between 6,000 and 60,000 miles on the odometer and similar looks and handling can be had for thousands less,” Bell wrote.

“Buyers can opt for a coupe, convertible, wagon or sedan — all of which feature driving dynamics that are the envy of the industry,” he continued. “Be thrifty with equipment and watch pricing, though, because the 3-Series holds its value well and can be slathered with expensive options.”

The other BMW model to make the list — the 5-Series — ranked eighth.

Other OEMs to make the list were Mercedes-Benz, whose E-Class was No. 7, and General Motors, whose Chevrolet Impala ranked fifth.

The complete top 10 is as follows:

1. Honda Accord
2. BMW 3-Series
3. Toyota Camry
4. Honda Civic
5. Chevrolet Impala
6. Toyota Corolla
7. Mercedes-Benz E-Class
8. BMW 5-Series
9. Honda Odyssey
10. Lexus RX

For the complete story, visit http://editorial.autos.msn.com/listarticle.aspx?cp-documentid=1156294. 

Editor’s Note: CarMark is highlighted as an independent certified program in the MSN Autos article. The CarMark program is exclusive to Pre-Owned Automobile Dealers Alliance members. To become a POADA dealer member for free, visit www.poada.biz. To learn more about CarMark, visit www.carmarkcertified.com.