IRVINE, Calif. -

Today’s new cars may be chock-full of the latest technology and features, but that comes at a price. In fact, the average price of a new car is $33,801.

Because many people cannot afford a large monthly payment (let alone buy a new car outright), there exists a healthy market for affordable used cars. Still, prices for used vehicles run the gamut.

With affordability in mind, the editors at Kelley Blue Book's KBB.com have named this year’s 10 Best Used Cars Under $8,000.

“While spending $8,000 or less won't get you the newest tech or the shiniest paint job, it can buy you solid, reliable transportation that will last for the next several years if you play your cards correctly," said Jack Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for KBB.com.  

“For those who feel a keen ache in their checkbook thinking about the prospect of a big monthly payment, this year’s list of KBB.com’s 10 Best Used Cars Under $8,000 should provide some relief, because there are good used-car alternatives to a more expensive vehicle.”

  1. 2006 Toyota Avalon
  2. 2007 Honda Accord
  3. 2010 Honda Civic
  4. 2008 Toyota Corolla
  5. 2008 Ford Crown Victoria
  6. 2006 Subaru Outback
  7. 2007 Nissan Maxima
  8. 2007 Subaru Impreza
  9. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  10. 2010 Kia Soul

KBB.com editors noted that the Avalon is “big, quiet and comfortable,” as well as highly reliable.

“Our master mechanic suggests that obtaining 200,000 miles of largely trouble-free driving is a distinct possibility,” they said.

The other Toyota on the list, the 2008 Corolla, was noted by KBB mechanics as “a great choice for a used car if all maintenances have been performed.”

Like most Toyotas, the Corolla seems to be “overbuilt” compared to other cars in its segment, and that translates to solid reliability with few problems,” they continued.

Coming in a No. 10, the Kia Soul’s aesthetics were likened to a common kitchen applicance.

“Some would tell you it looks like a toaster, but if it does it is a very useful toaster,” KBB said. “Larger than you might guess it is, the Soul will swallow up a lot of cargo and haul five passengers in surprising comfort. If you can’t swing the cost of a small SUV (and don't need all-wheel drive), the Soul will fill the bill.”

To see KBB.com’s full coverage of the 10 Best Used Cars Under $8,000 for 2016, including vehicle photography, pricing details and editorial reviews, visit www.kbb.com/car-reviews-and-news/top-10/best-used-cars-under-8000/2100000852/.