22 MPG combined might initially appear middling, but for a front-wheel-drive, three-row luxury crossover like the 2026 Buick Enclave with its 2.5L four-cylinder engine, it’s a perfectly respectable figure. This isn’t a compact sedan chasing every last drop of fuel efficiency. The Enclave is built for comfortable family transport, for highway journeys with luggage, and for daily commutes that demand a refined ride and ample space. Its buyers prioritize quiet solitude, a smooth driving experience, and a tasteful interior over outright speed or hyper-miling. The 22 combined MPG points to a practical balance, delivering acceptable running costs for a vehicle designed to shoulder significant family duties without feeling like a penalty box.

City and highway performance

Looking at the EPA data, the 2026 Enclave FWD 2.5L 4-cyl achieves 20 MPG in city driving and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure, at 20 MPG, is particularly good for a vehicle of this size and capability. Stop-and-go traffic, often a significant drain on larger vehicles, is managed well by the Enclave’s powertrain, which uses an 8-speed automatic transmission. This transmission plays a crucial role here, smoothly cycling through gears to keep the 2.5L four-cylinder within its most efficient operating range without constantly hunting or feeling strained. This translates to an everyday driving experience that avoids the sensation of a thirsty vehicle lumbering through urban environments.

On the open road, the 25 MPG highway rating solidifies the Enclave’s position as a competent long-distance cruiser. It’s here that the vehicle truly shines in terms of its mission: quiet, comfortable travel for families. This highway efficiency comes from the engine’s design, the intelligent gearing, and the vehicle’s aerodynamic profile. While no Enclave buyer is likely to purchase this vehicle solely based on its highway MPG, it’s a welcome bonus that underscores its utility for road trips and regular interstate journeys. It means fewer stops at the pump on a long drive, contributing to the overall relaxed nature that Buick buyers expect.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2026 Buick Enclave FWD 2.5L 4-cyl is exactly $2,000. It’s important to understand how this figure is derived. The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost based on an assumed 15,000 miles of driving per year, combining city and highway driving proportions, and using national average fuel prices, which are updated periodically. This $2,000 figure is a useful benchmark, allowing prospective buyers to quickly gauge one of the primary running costs associated with vehicle ownership. For a three-row crossover in the premium mainstream segment, $2,000 per year represents a very manageable expense. It’s not a budget car, nor is it a fuel guzzler. It sits comfortably in the middle, offering a palatable financial commitment for families who value space, comfort, and a touch of luxury.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA ratings provide a solid baseline, real-world fuel economy for the 2026 Buick Enclave FWD 2.5L 4-cyl will, as with any vehicle, vary depending on driving habits, terrain, climate, and vehicle load. Aggressive acceleration and braking will undoubtedly push the MPG numbers lower, particularly in city driving. Consistently driving with a fully loaded vehicle or towing (if capable with this powertrain, though unlikely to be a primary use case) will also impact efficiency. However, for the typical Enclave owner, someone who prioritizes a smooth, composed ride and drives primarily for family duties, commutes, and occasional long-distance trips, the EPA estimates are likely to be quite achievable. Buick’s typical buyer isn’t hot-rodding from stoplight to stoplight. They’re cruising, enjoying the quiet cabin, and appreciating the refined driving dynamics. For this audience, achieving or even slightly exceeding the 22 MPG combined is a realistic expectation, especially with mindful driving.

How it compares

Comparing the 2026 Enclave’s fuel economy to its direct competitors shows its competitive positioning. For instance, the Buick Envision, another popular Buick model, offers 26 MPG combined with its smaller 2.0L engine. However, the Enclave is a significantly larger vehicle with broader family utility, so a direct engine-to-engine comparison across different segments isn’t always fair. Looking squarely at three-row crossovers, the Enclave’s 22 MPG combined holds its own. The Honda Pilot, for example, typically averages around 22 MPG combined for its FWD models with a V6 engine. The Toyota Highlander FWD V6 often sees similar figures, usually around 22-23 MPG combined. Where the Enclave truly sets itself apart, and where its four-cylinder engine provides a distinct advantage, is against other premium three-row offerings that often default to larger, thirstier V6s or more complex and expensive hybrid systems to achieve comparable numbers. For a family specifically looking for a quiet, comfortable, and stylish three-row SUV without the complexity or added cost of a hybrid, and without the fuel consumption of a large V6, the ENCLAVE MPG across all years with its 2.5L four-cylinder offers an efficient choice. This specific powertrain option is designed to appeal to those who value practicality and a balanced approach to fuel economy within the premium three-row segment.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintaining consistent speeds, especially on the highway, is critical for maximizing the Enclave’s 25 MPG rating. Use cruise control whenever appropriate to avoid unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, allowing the 8-speed transmission to settle into its most efficient gear.

Anticipating traffic flow and smooth braking can significantly improve city fuel economy. Hard acceleration from a standstill and abrupt stops waste fuel, whereas gentle inputs allow the 2.5L engine to operate more efficiently within its power band.

Regular maintenance, including proper tire inflation and timely oil changes, directly impacts efficiency. An underinflated tire creates more rolling resistance, and a well-maintained engine simply runs more smoothly and consumes less fuel.

Minimizing unnecessary weight in the vehicle and removing roof racks or cargo carriers when not in use can also contribute to better fuel economy. Every extra pound and every aerodynamic drag point requires more energy to move down the road, particularly at highway speeds.

While the Enclave might not feature a dedicated “Eco” mode in the traditional sense, understanding the vehicle’s power delivery and consciously driving with a lighter foot inherently achieves the same goal. The 2.5L engine is responsive enough for daily tasks without needing constant wide-open throttle applications.