The 10 Most Fuel-Efficient 2009 Cars and SUVs
See the only 14 models with better than 30 mpg... then check out the most fuel efficient 2010 cars and SUVs.
By Dan Shapley
Why Buying Fuel-Efficient Matters
Gas prices might fluctuate week to week, but over the long haul they are headed emphatically in one direction: Up. While smart driving techniques and maintenance can help you save as much as 20 percent on fuel costs, the biggest savings comes — or doesn't — when you purchase a new car. (Or, finding ways to avoid driving by using innovative alternatives.)
Chew on this: Even the cars on this list will add between $94 and $147 in fuel costs to your monthly car payment. And these are the most fuel efficient cars and SUVs on the market. Talk about cash for clunkers.
The following fuel economy and cost estimates, using data from the Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy, are based on driving 15,000 miles a year — 45 percent on the highway and 55 percent in the city — and paying between $3.75 for gasoline and $3.88 for diesel.
The cars, wagons and SUVs listed here are the only 2009 models to achieve better than 30 mpg combined fuel economy.
Pricing information from edmunds.com, manufacturers or published reports, and reflects base or list price.
1. 2009 Toyota Prius
Price: $22,000
If it's lonely at the top, the Prius knows it. The iconic hybrid is the most fuel-efficient buy again in 2009.
Fuel Economy
City: 48 mpg
Highway: 45 mpg
Annual Impact
Cost to Drive: $1,133
CO2 Emitted: 4 tons
Barrels of Oil: 7.4
Air Pollution Score: 8 (of 10)
2. 2009 Honda Civic Hybrid
Price: $23,550
Second again, the Honda Civic Hybrid achieves the same strong fuel economy stats as the 2008 model. It can't match the Prius in city driving or price — but it does have a higher (better) EPA air pollution score.
Fuel Economy
City: 40 mpg
Highway: 45 mpg
Annual Impact
Cost to Drive: $1,242
CO2 Emitted: 4.4 tons
Barrels of Oil: 8.2
Air Pollution Score: 9 (of 10)
3. 2009 Nissan Altima Hybrid
Price: $26,650
The Nissan Altima Hybrid notches the third spot on the list again. What does third place mean? Better than most, but still 27 percent less efficient than the No. 1 Prius.
Fuel Economy
City: 35 mpg
Highway: 33 mpg
Annual Impact
Cost to Drive: $1,535
CO2 Emitted: 5.4 tons
Barrels of Oil: 10.1
Air Pollution Score: N/A
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