The Ford Explorer has long been one of the most popular SUVs on the road, and now it hopes to be among the most fuel-efficient as well. The manufacturer recently announced that its new turbocharged Explorer offers an impressive 28 miles per gallon.

Ford used its unique EcoBoost technology, which combines turbocharging and direct fuel injection to not only offer drivers with more power but better mileage as well. In fact, its improved efficiency is 20 percent better than the Honda Pilot and 12 percent better than the Toyota Highlander.

"Today's SUV buyers place a high priority on miles per gallon, so Explorer has expanded its portfolio of fuel-efficient engines with an all-new EcoBoost offering," said Ford group marketing manager Amy Marentic. "SUV buyers deserve economy with their capability, so Explorer now offers best-in-class V6 and four-cylinder fuel efficiency."

The Explorer is having an especially good 2011 (year). The company reported that in the first half of the year it sold nearly 66,000 vehicles, which already exceeds its 2010 total.

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