Most Fuel-Efficient SUVs for 2010

Sport utility vehicles haven't historically been the most fuel-efficient vehicles on the road. However, a number 2010 hybrid SUVs are bucking this trend, giving you the option to reduce your carbon footprint without reducing your interior cabin space (you've got to put those kids somewhere, right?).

Just as with all vehicle segments, the 2010 SUV lineup is creeping upwards in mpgs. While you won't get the 50 mpg offered by the industry-leading Toyota Prius, there are a handful of SUVs that deliver more than 30 mpg. The most fuel-efficient 2010 SUVs are as follows:

2010 Ford Escape Hybrid

The 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid maintains its class-leading fuel efficiency with an estimated 34 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway (32 mpg combined). Opt for theall-wheel drive version, and you'll end up with 30 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway (29 mpg combined). This greenest SUV for 2010 also earns extra points for sporting recycled interior fabrics and materials, as well as seat cushions made from soybean oil. Your welcome, Mother Nature.

2010 Mercury Mariner Hybrid

The 2010 Mercury Mariner ties for the top spot in 2010 SUV fuel efficiency. This should come as no surprise, given that the Mariner shares the same hybrid engine technology as the Ford Escape. Essentially a dressed-up version of its stable mate, you'll pay a little more for bolstered luxury and convenience features. However, fuel efficiency stays the same at 34 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.

2010 Mazda Tribute Hybrid

The Mazda Tribute rounds out the triplet hybrid offering from Ford (Mazda jointly developed the vehicle with the help of Ford). Essentially a clone of the 2010 Escape, the Mazda Tribute Hybrid earns, you guessed it, 34 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The Tribute hybrid is tuned to deliver a sportier ride. If that idea intrigues you, then you better live on the west coast. The 2010 Mazda Tribute Hybrid is only available in California.

2010 Lexus RX 450h

The 2010 Lexus RX 450h is the most fuel-efficient luxury SUV for 2010. Front-wheel drive models deliver 28 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway (27 mpg combined). A continuously variable transmission (CVT) contributes to this superior fuel efficiency, despite a power-hungry engine that musters 295 horsepower. Throw in the luxury interior and high-tech gadgets, and the 2010 Lexus RX 450h is a great choice for any driver willing to pay top dollar for an eco-friendly SUV.

2010 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2010 Toyota Highlander Hybrid can't match its hybrid competitors, but still outperforms traditional gas SUVs with an estimated 27 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway (26 mpg combined). With a larger engine and seating for up to seven, the Highlander Hybrid is a good alternative to the Ford hybrids for anyone wanting a little extra horsepower.

2010 Saturn VUE Hybrid

Considered a mild hybrid, the 2010 Saturn VUE Hybrid earns modest fuel savings with EPA estimates coming in at 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway (28 mpg combined). Out of all the hybrid SUV options, the Saturn VUE is one of the most affordable options. If you're interested, get it now while you can – the Saturn brand is being phased out due to GM's financial woes.

2010 Chevrolet Equinox

If you want a 2010 fuel-efficient SUV, but don't want to pay the premium that comes with owning a hybrid, then the Chevrolet Equinox may be your best bet. With 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox is the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid SUV for the model year.