Picking a ‘Greener’ SUV

While sport-utility vehicles are not necessarily thought of as being among the most environmentally benign models on a showroom floor, the growing number of smaller and more fuel-efficient crossovers reaching the market over the past few years is tipping the scales back in Mother Nature’s direction We’ve compiled a list of the 10 most environmentally friendly SUVs for 2015, ranked according to their “Green Score” ratings as determined by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy in Washington, D.C. While these scores are largely based on a vehicle’s fuel economy and its tailpipe emissions, they also consider a wide range if factors that include emissions estimates for a vehicle’s manufacturing process and its eventual disposal impact. While there may not be any behemoth truck-based workhorses represented here, those looking for “greener” models will find an engaging assortment of practical people movers just the same. All offer either standard or optional all-wheel drive as for added prowess on wet or snowy roads. 1. MINI Cooper Countryman (Green Score 47; 27/34 mpg city/highway). The Countryman is essentially a larger four-door MINI Cooper that retains its funky styling and agile handling abilities. It’s “greenest” with the base 1.6-liter 121-horsepower engine, but suffers little in that regard with either the 181-horsepower S version or the sportiest John Cooper Works edition with 208 horses. 2. Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid (Green Score 46; 30/34 mpg). Based on the compact Impreza hatchback, the XV Crosstrek features additional ground clearance and specific SUV-like styling cues. This is the gas/electric-powered hybrid version that’s quicker, but only gets a few mpg more than the standard gas-powered model, and for a hefty price bump at that. 3. Buick Encore (Green Score: 46; 25/33 mpg). Stylish and peppy, with a luxurious interior and a smooth ride, the subcompact Encore crossover appeals to those who want to downsize without skimping on comfort and convenience. A 1.4-liter 138-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine is sufficiently peppy and efficient. 4. Nissan Juke (Green Score 45; 25/31 mpg). Quick and nimble, the Juke is otherwise distinguished by its oddball styling. A turbocharged 1.6-liter 188-hp four-cylinder engine delivers plenty of power, with NISMO models featuring either 197- or 215-horsepower on tap, along with other performance-minded enhancements. 5. Mazda CX-5 (Green Score 44; 26/35 mpg). The compact CX-5 is handsomely styled and delivers lively performance even in its “greenest” version with a 2.0-liter 155 horsepower four-cylinder engine. Top models include a quicker, though less efficient, 2.5-liter 184-horsepower four-cylinder. 6. Nissan Rogue (Green Score 44; 26/33 mpg). Boldly styled, this compact crossover can be fitted with a third-row seat for the kids. An efficient 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine nets a willing 170-horsepower and comes mated to a gearless CVT automatic transmission. 7. Subaru Forester (Green Score 44; 24/32 mpg). A solid value with standard AWD, the conservatively styled Forester is rated highest for the base model with the standard 2.5-liter 170-horsepower four-cylinder engine; a less-efficient 2.0-liter 250-horsepower turbocharged four is alternately available. 8. Honda CR-V (Green Score 42; 27/34 mpg). Updated for 2015, the CR-V features brasher styling and now packs Honda’s 2.4-liter “Earth Dreams” direct-injected four-cylinder engine with 185 horsepower and a gearless CVT automatic transmission. Some of the latest high-tech safety features are newly available. 9. Mitsubishi Outlander Sport (Green score 42; 25/32 mpg). The stylish Outlander Sport isn’t particularly sporty, but it’s a solid performer, packing a peppy and fuel-efficient 2.0-liter 148-horsepower four-cylinder engine. 10. Mitsubishi Outlander (Green Score 42; 25/31 mpg). Bigger sibling to the Outlander Sport, this midsize crossover is conservatively styled and features a 2.0-liter 166-horsepower four-cylinder engine and gearless CVT automatic transmission. It’s less “green,” though quicker in the top GT version with its 3.0-liter 224-horsepower V6 engine. A third-row seat is included for the kiddies.