The EPA is much-maligned in tree-hugger circles for being a typically ineffective government agency. But you can’t deny they come out with some handy stuff. To wit: the 2009 fuel economy guide.

It’s got the latest mileage estimates for every vehicle under the sun. If you’re car shopping, surely one of your biggest concerns is how much you’re going to have to pay to fill ‘er up. This site tells you.

And in an exceptionally cool, practical move for the EPA, they have a version for mobile users, so you can access stuff like a car’s annual petroleum use or its carbon footprint as you walk the lots.

Here’s the 2009 fuel economy leaders:

Toyota Prius (hybrid) 48/45
Honda Civic Hybrid 40/45
Nissan Altima Hybrid 35/33
Ford Escape Hybrid FWD 34/31
Mazda Tribute Hybrid 2WD 34/31
Mercury Mariner Hybrid FWD 34/31
Smart Fortwo Convertible 33/41
Smart Fortwo Coupe 33/41
Toyota Camry Hybrid 33/34
Volkswagon Jetta (manual, diesel) 30/41
Volkswagon Jetta Sportwagon (manual, diesel) 30/41
Volkswagon Jetta (automatic, diesel) 29/40
Volkswagon Jetta Sportwagon (automatic, diesel) 29/40
Toyota Yaris (manual) 29/36
Toyota Yaris (automatic) 29/35

Let us know how much fuel economy plays a role in your car-buying considerations by posting a comment below.