Consumers have several options for buying reliable high mileage cars that are selling for less than $20,000 and offer value during the recession. An auto analyst tested cars and recommends base model subcompacts and compacts such as the Honda Fit, VW Jetta TDI, Nissan Versa, Scion xD, Mazda 3 and 5, Hyundai Elantra, and Honda Civic and Insight hybrid.