RICHMOND, Va. — Used-car retailer CarMax Inc. has announced the availability of the Vehicle Recommendation Tool for used-car shoppers. The new tool was designed to help customers who are at the first stage of the buying process and may not know exactly which vehicle they want or need. It uses a sophisticated system to translate the customer’s self-identified preferences — including vehicle type, usage, fuel efficiency, year and price — into a rank-ordered list of recommended vehicles.

“This new tool will help online used-car shoppers navigate through various vehicles so they can begin to narrow down their choices,” said Ann Yauger, director of carmax.com. “Using this new technology, the Vehicle Recommendation Tool makes it easier for used-car shoppers on carmax.com to find the car or truck that best fits their needs. It could even suggest a vehicle they had not previously considered.”

The tool was developed by the creators of MyProductAdvisor.com, a service which provides unbiased product recommendations based on individual preferences. “Our core business was founded in the consumer automotive industry,” said Dick Smallwood, CEO of Market Insight Corp. “We are proud to enhance the selection process for CarMax shoppers.”