IRVINE, Calif. — Sitting atop Kelley Blue Book’s Top 10 Back-to-School Cars list were the 2012 Hyundai Accent in the new category and the 2007 Suzuki SX4 in the used category. The two vehicles, along with other vehicles that made the list were selected for their reliability, safety, affordability, practicality, car acceleration, technology and appearance.

"Each year we have more great choices to consider for our top back-to-school rides list, because auto manufacturers continue to outdo themselves with the features and amenities they offer on vehicles that are optimal for students," said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. "With so many vehicle choices, the key to shopping smart is finding a set of wheels that pleases both parent and child, which is no small task.  The good news is the recently redesigned kbb.com provides a host of tools to help find the best car and get the best deal possible."

Each new car on the list is available for $18,000 or less, according to Kelley Blue Book's Fair Purchase Price. Used cars on the listwere chosen according to the newest model year available that still kept the value at $12,000 or less, using Kelley Blue Book's Suggested Retail Value.

Top Five New Vehicles for Back-to-School 2011:

1.  2012 Hyundai Accent

2.  2011 Honda Fit

3.  2012 Ford Focus

4.  2011 Fiat 500

5.  2011 Chevrolet Cruze

Top Five Used Vehicles for Back-to-School 2011:

1.  2007 Suzuki SX4

2.  2008 Chevrolet HHR

3.  2007 Kia Sedona

4.  2007 Ford F-150

5.  2007 Nissan Sentra

For more information, visit the 2011 Top 10 Back-to-School Cars article on kbb.com.