The 2025 Buick Encore GX FWD 1.2L is expected to achieve 30 MPG combined. While not a class-leading number, it’s perfectly adequate for a small crossover designed for urban and suburban driving. This vehicle prioritizes maneuverability, ease of parking, and Buick refinement, rather than high performance or off-road capability.

City and highway performance

The EPA rating for the Encore GX shows similar fuel economy for city and highway driving, with 30 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. The variable gear ratio automatic transmission appears well-matched to the 1.2L three-cylinder engine’s power delivery. The engine does not experience a dramatic fuel economy decrease on the highway that some smaller engines have when working harder at higher speeds. These near-identical figures are reassuring for the target buyer, often empty-nesters or young professionals, whose daily driving involves shorter commutes and errands with occasional longer highway trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2025 Buick Encore GX FWD 1.2L to be $1,450. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Individual fuel costs will vary based on local fuel prices and driving habits, but this offers a useful benchmark. Potential buyers can easily compare this concrete number against other vehicles when calculating overall cost of ownership.

Real-world expectations

Expect some variation in real-world fuel economy, even though the EPA numbers are a good starting point. Your driving style, the roads you drive on, and the weather all impact your MPG. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking will reduce your fuel economy, as will consistently driving at higher speeds. Keeping your tires properly inflated and following the recommended maintenance schedule will help you achieve numbers closer to the EPA estimates. Drivers who primarily drive in stop-and-go city traffic might see slightly lower numbers, while those who do mostly highway driving at a consistent speed may achieve slightly better results.

How it compares

The Encore GX is in a competitive segment, and its fuel economy compares well. The Mazda CX-30, which is known for its engaging driving dynamics, achieves 26 MPG combined with its standard engine and AWD, meaning these characteristics reduce fuel efficiency. A comparable front-wheel drive Hyundai Kona achieves 30 MPG combined. The Nissan Kicks offers 31 MPG combined, but it has a lower price and a less premium feel than the Buick. Understanding the trade-offs between fuel economy, price, features, and driving experience is important for buyers deciding between these vehicles. For anyone looking for all Buick fuel economy data, considering the range of options is important, from the efficient Encore GX to the larger, less economical SUVs in their model range. Also, be sure to see the ENCORE MPG across all years to see how this model compares to previous versions.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The three-cylinder engine in the Encore GX responds well to gentle driving. Conserve fuel by avoiding rapid acceleration and braking smoothly. Anticipate traffic flow and keep a consistent speed when possible. The Encore GX’s automatic transmission is designed to maximize efficiency, but it performs best with predictable driving.

Keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressure on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and decreasing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra cargo in the trunk or on the roof rack can lower fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t regularly need to minimize the vehicle’s weight.

If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, shut off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly and efficiently, saving fuel. This applies especially to city drivers who encounter many traffic lights.

For consistent speed and optimized fuel economy on the highway, consider using cruise control. Be aware of traffic and disengage cruise control when needed for safety. Cruise control will give the vehicle an advantage on flat highway stretches.