26 MPG combined is an acceptable, if unremarkable, figure for the 2023 Buick Envision FWD with the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder. This isn’t a sports SUV, nor is it aiming for best-in-class frugality. The Envision is for buyers who want a quiet, comfortable, and stylish ride over outright efficiency. These are often empty-nesters or small families seeking a premium feel without the high price of true luxury brands. For them, 26 MPG is a reasonable compromise. The Envision delivers a relaxed driving experience and is spacious enough for daily errands and longer road trips, all while returning fuel economy that won’t break the bank.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2023 Buick Envision FWD at 23 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. The 23 MPG city figure reflects the engine’s responsiveness and the transmission’s smooth operation. While some might hope for a slightly higher number in stop-and-go traffic, this is reasonable for a vehicle of this size and weight. The 31 MPG highway rating is where the Envision excels, making it a comfortable and relatively efficient cruiser for longer journeys. Expect consistent results on well-maintained highways, especially when using cruise control. The automatic transmission’s nine gears help keep the engine operating at optimal RPMs, maximizing fuel efficiency on long drives.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Buick Envision FWD is estimated at $1,700. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. The EPA also uses the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Remember that your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel you use. While $1,700 is a useful benchmark, fluctuating gas prices will directly impact your yearly expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a solid baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Factors such as driving style, road conditions, and even tire pressure can significantly affect your MPG. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking will reduce fuel efficiency. Conversely, smooth and consistent driving will help you get closer to the EPA estimates. Regular maintenance, including tire inflation and timely oil changes, also contributes to optimal fuel economy. If you drive carefully, achieving the EPA combined rating of 26 MPG is realistic. However, drivers who accelerate quickly or who primarily drive in dense urban environments should anticipate slightly lower numbers.

How it compares

The Buick Envision competes in a crowded segment, and fuel economy is one of many considerations for buyers. The Acura RDX, for example, achieves 22 MPG city and 28 MPG highway in its standard FWD configuration, so the Envision is the slightly more efficient choice. The Lexus NX 250 FWD delivers a comparable 26 MPG combined, but the hybrid NX 350h significantly outperforms both with its 41 MPG combined. However, the NX 350h also costs more. Even within the General Motors family, the Cadillac XT4, another compact luxury SUV, achieves similar fuel economy to the Envision when equipped with its standard engine. For consumers who want better fuel efficiency and might consider a hybrid, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid provides much better MPG, even if it lacks the premium feel of the Buick. Comparing all Buick fuel economy data against other brands is a smart move for any shopper.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Envision’s Eco driving mode when appropriate. This mode adjusts the engine and transmission settings to prioritize fuel economy, often making acceleration slower. While it might feel slightly less spirited, especially during highway merging, it can make a noticeable difference on longer trips and in city driving.

Keep your tires properly inflated. The correct tire pressure optimizes rolling resistance, which directly impacts fuel consumption. Consult the sticker on your driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended pressure. Check your tires regularly, especially when the temperature changes, as pressure can fluctuate.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling consumes fuel without moving. This is particularly important in urban environments where you may encounter frequent red lights or traffic congestion.

Plan your routes to avoid traffic. Using navigation apps to identify and avoid traffic jams can improve fuel economy. Stop-and-go traffic wastes fuel, so alternative routes, even if slightly longer, can save you both time and fuel. ENVISION MPG optimization techniques should be considered across all years when planning your trip.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which reduces fuel consumption. However, be mindful of terrain changes, as cruise control might downshift on steep inclines, costing you some fuel. On flatter highways, cruise control helps.