The Hummer (any Hummer) has become the default "bad car" in many folks' minds. Indeed, every sighting of a "Dummer" elicits snide remarks among my friends–well-earned, I might add.

Perhaps we shouldn't be so hasty to judge? According GreenerCars.com, there are at least 12 "meaner" vehicles, in terms of their environmental impact. And nine of them can be seen on the roads around Jackson as often as you might see a Hummer.

The Volkswagen Touareg is rated the biggest offender, followed closely by three different models of Mercedes Benz 320 CDI diesel SUV, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford F-250, Dodge Ram 2500 Mega Cab and Lincoln Navigator. Other mean vehicles on the list include a Lamborghini, Bentley and Maybach, but I haven't seen any of those in the parking lot atop Teton pass.

Here's how GreenerCars.com rates vehicles:

We analyze automakers' test results for fuel economy and emissions as reported to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the California Air Resources Board, along with other specifications reported by automakers. We estimate pollution from vehicle manufacturing, from the production and distribution of fuel and from vehicle tailpipes. We count air pollution, such as fine particles, nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons and other pollutants according to the health problems caused by each pollutant. We then factor in greenhouse gases (such as carbon dioxide) and combine the emissions estimates into a Green Score that runs on a scale from 0 to 100. The top vehicles this year score a 57, the average is 30 and the worst gas-guzzlers score around 14.

FYI, Touareg earned the 14, and all 12 mean machines scored 20 or less. How about the Hummer? Don't know. To get the scoop on all 1300 vehicle ratings, you've got to purchase the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy's Green Book.

Lesson learned: don't save all your disrespect for  Hummer owners, there are plenty of other environmental offenders out there to dis.

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