Americans are concerned about fuel efficiency more than ever and car manufacturers are listening. For instance, Ford made big changes to their 2008 vehicle line and came out with a series of vehicles that are noticeably more fuel efficient -- even in the SUV marketplace. Here is a look at the top five:



Fuel Efficient Vehicle #5: Mazda 5

Although mileage does vary slightly depending on the model you choose, the 5-speed automatic, 4 cylinder SUV will get you approximately 22mpg in the city and 28mpg on the open road. The independent suspension, electronic brakeforce distribution, and other unique features make this minivan look and feel more like a sport sedan rather than the big family beasts of yester-year. If you talk to any of the Virginia Beach auto dealers, they will tell you these little machines have plenty of pep even with the higher gas mileage.

Fuel Efficient Vehicle #4: Mazda 3

Available in a touring, grand touring, and sport models as well as in a hatchback or sedan style, the Mazda 3s have a fuel rating of approximately 24mpg while city driving and 32mpg on the highway. They range from 144-151 horsepower with either a 2.0L or a 2.3L engine. Although handling is what sets these beautiful machines apart from the rest, says many Virginia Beach auto dealers, MazdaSpeed3 is the most popular model in the group because of its 2.3L 4 cylinder motor and 6-speed transmission.

Fuel Efficient Vehicle #3: Ford Focus

The 2008 Ford Focus has the look and feel of the Fusion sedan with better gas mileage. At 24 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, the car's improved efficiency is attributed mostly to its lighter weight overall and more aerodynamic design. Although it is available in both automatic and manual transmission, the automatic does have a slightly lower fuel mileage on the highway. Ford has also altered the braking and suspension systems to give this car better capability and comfort that its predecessors.

Fuel Efficient Vehicle #2: Mariner Hybrid

The 2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrids introduced a less expensive FWD model in addition to the all-wheel-drive version already available. The Mariner has a fuel rating of 34/30 mpg, which is equivalent to the Escape Hybrid. Where the Mariner really shines is in its luxurious options and chic design.

Fuel Efficient Vehicle #1: Escape Hybrid

Virginia Beach auto dealers prefer the Escape Hybrid to the Mariner because it costs less while still getting you 34mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the open road. This SUV has the same engine and chassis as both the Tribute and the Escape. The motor is a 2.3L Atkinson-cycle 14 that has 133 horsepower. The Escape also features electric drive as well as features such as regenerative breaking technology and a CVT automatic system.

This may not sound like a whole lot of savings until you look at the big picture. If you average out the fuel efficiency of all the SUVs available from Virginia Beach auto dealers, you will find they run at approximately 15-20mpg. With the Escape and Mariner, you can get twice the miles out of a tank of fuel and still enjoy the convenience and comfort of an SUV.