Feds Release New Fuel Economy Guide -- Prius Still On Top

Posted: Oct. 16, 2009 10:10 a.m.

The Toyota Prius is still the most fuel-efficient car in America, according to the EPA (well, the most fuel-efficient car sold in large numbers by a major manufacturer, as Tesla's lawyers would have us point out).

Autoblog reports, "According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the 2010 version of Toyota's seminal hybrid once again scores the mileage victory with its estimated 51 mpg city and 48 highway."  The second place slot belongs to the all-new Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan hybrids.  The only non-hybrid car to crack the top ten was the Smart Fortwo.

In a press release, the EPA notes, "Fuel-efficient models come in all types and sizes, so consumers can save thousands of dollars over a vehicle's lifetime without sacrificing performance. Model year 2010 fuel economy leaders include a wide range of hybrid models, from compact cars to sport-utility vehicles."  Three hybrid SUVS - the Ford Escape, Mercury Mariner and Mazda Tribute - made the top ten.

The web version of this year's guide includes a few new features.  The Portland Oregonian notes, "The online version of the guide also allows consumers to input their local gasoline prices and typical driving habits to receive a personalized fuel cost estimate. Fuel efficiency is important for reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases that contribute to global climate change."

If you're in the market for a new car, check out the U.S. News rankings of this year's best cars as well as this month's best car deals.

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