20 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but it’s the reality for the 2023 Buick Enclave AWD with its 3.6L V6. This is a sizable three-row crossover designed to haul families and their gear in comfort, and its fuel economy reflects that mission. While not class-leading, it represents an acceptable trade-off for the space, features, and smooth driving experience the Enclave delivers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Enclave at 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure, while not impressive, is typical for a vehicle of this size and weight maneuvering through stop-and-go traffic. The highway number is more respectable, in part because of the Enclave’s 9-speed automatic transmission, which allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs for optimal efficiency during long drives. Owners who prioritize road trips will likely see numbers closer to the EPA estimate, while primarily city drivers may find themselves slightly below it. The figures apply specifically to the all-wheel drive version; the front-wheel drive Enclave sees a slight bump in both city and highway MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Buick Enclave AWD at $2,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices. Premium fuel is not required, so sticking with regular unleaded will help keep costs down.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often deviates depending on individual driving habits, terrain, and weather conditions. Enclave owners who frequently carry passengers or cargo, or who live in hilly areas, may find their fuel economy closer to the lower end of the EPA range. Conversely, drivers who prioritize fuel efficiency and practice eco-driving techniques may be able to achieve slightly better results.

How it compares

The Buick Enclave occupies a competitive segment, and comparing its fuel economy to rivals puts its efficiency into perspective. The Acura MDX SH-AWD, also equipped with a V6, achieves an EPA-estimated 19 MPG combined. The Infiniti QX60, another popular choice, lands slightly better at 21 MPG combined. The Volvo XC90 B6 AWD, with its turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder engine, manages a more impressive 22 MPG combined. For buyers who prioritize fuel economy above all else, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid with AWD achieves a remarkable 35 MPG combined. The Enclave’s fuel economy isn’t a standout, but its strengths lie in other areas such as interior space, comfort, and a more traditional V6 driving experience that some buyers prefer over smaller, boosted engines. See ENCLAVE MPG across all years for a historical perspective.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Enclave, despite its size, responds well to smooth, deliberate inputs. Rapid acceleration and hard braking waste fuel unnecessarily. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended level, found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excessive cargo in the vehicle adds weight, which increases fuel consumption. Remove any items you don’t need to carry regularly, such as sports equipment or tools. Minimizing the load reduces the engine’s workload.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy on long trips. However, avoid using cruise control in hilly terrain, as the vehicle may downshift frequently, negating the fuel-saving benefits. Consider researching all Buick fuel economy data to compare across the lineup.