While 24 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy contests, it’s what you can expect from the 2020 Buick Regal AWD with the turbocharged 2.0L engine. This Regal prioritizes a comfortable and sure-footed driving experience in various weather conditions. The all-wheel-drive system increases weight and complexity, which affects fuel efficiency, but the powertrain delivers good performance for its class. Owners of this Regal typically value a comfortable ride, a quiet cabin, and the added security of AWD, understanding that fuel economy is affected.

City and highway performance

The Regal’s city and highway MPG figures are 21 and 29, respectively. The 21 MPG city rating reflects typical fuel consumption in stop-and-go driving, especially with the AWD system working. On the highway, 29 MPG is possible when cruising, but anticipate lower numbers with frequent acceleration or hilly roads. The 8-speed automatic transmission helps optimize fuel economy at higher speeds, but the turbocharger works harder to maintain speed uphill.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Buick Regal AWD 2.0L at $2,400. This is based on 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may differ based on driving habits, road types, and local fuel prices. Drivers who accelerate quickly or live in areas with higher fuel costs may exceed this $2,400 estimate.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are standardized, but real-world fuel economy varies. Drivers of the 2020 Regal AWD with the 2.0L turbo can expect fuel economy within a couple of MPG of the EPA estimates if they drive efficiently. Consistent heavy acceleration and using the AWD system on dry pavement will lower your mileage. A more realistic expectation for everyday driving is 22-26 MPG combined. Tire pressure and regular maintenance also affect fuel efficiency. Look at all Buick fuel economy data to see how the Regal compares to the rest of the lineup.

How it compares

The 2020 Acura TLX SH-AWD, also with all-wheel drive and a 2.0L turbo, achieves an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined, the same as the Regal. The BMW 330i xDrive, another AWD competitor, gets a slightly better 28 MPG combined, reflecting its focus on performance and efficiency. The Subaru Legacy with standard AWD achieves 30 MPG combined, highlighting Subaru’s efficient all-wheel-drive systems. Buyers who want better fuel efficiency might consider the front-wheel-drive version of the Regal, which gets up to 32 MPG on the highway. For a closer look, check the REGAL MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid hard acceleration. The Regal’s turbocharger provides power, but strong acceleration wastes fuel. Smooth acceleration saves fuel over time.

Keep tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tires often and inflate them to the recommended pressure on the driver’s side door sticker.

Use cruise control on the highway. Consistent speed reduces unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, saving fuel. The Regal’s adaptive cruise control helps maintain a safe and efficient distance from other vehicles.

Minimize idling. If stopped for more than a minute, shut off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly, and shutting off the engine saves fuel.

Reduce weight. Extra items in your trunk or back seat add weight, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Remove unnecessary items to improve fuel economy.