EPA Lists the Most Climate-Friendly Cars for 2010

In brief: The Environmental Protection Agency has released it's Green Vehicle Guide for 2010.

The word

The guide has two sections: SmartWay and Smartway Elite. The list results for either choice will also vary by state, since different states have different EPA requirements.

The results are tabulated using a sliding scale of 1-10 on two criteria. The first scale measures fuel economy (EPA rating of MPG) and the second measures CO2 output. To qualify as a SmartWay, the car must achieve a 6 on both scales and a total score of at least 13. To qualify as a SmartWay Elite, the car must achieve a 9 on each scale.

On our list below are California (the most stringent EPA rules) cars with a SmartWay Elite rating. This produced 12 winners. They are listed by ranking and alphabetically for ties.

The following were rated 9.5 and 10:

• Ford Fusion Hybrid
• Honda Civic Hybrid
• Honda Insight (2 models)
• Mercury Milan Hybrid
• Toyota Prius

The following were rated 9.5 and 9:

• Ford Escape Hybrid
• Lexus HS 250h
• Mazda Tribute Hybrid
• Mercury Mariner Hybrid
• Nissan Altima Hybrid
• Toyota Camry Hybrid

And so ...

Impressive list and a great site to check before going to the dealership to look at new cars.

Photo credits: Ford Motor Company