The 2016 Buick Envision AWD with the 2.0L turbocharged engine gets 22 MPG combined. This number isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, especially in a segment increasingly populated by hybrids and frugal small crossovers. But it’s an acceptable compromise for buyers who want a refined, comfortable ride, ample passenger space, and standard all-wheel drive in a well-equipped package.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Buick Envision AWD 2.0L are 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic where the Envision’s weight and traditional six-speed automatic transmission affect fuel economy. The highway number is more respectable, showing that the turbocharged engine can cruise relatively efficiently once it’s up to speed. Achieving that rated 26 MPG requires a light foot and consistent speeds; aggressive acceleration and frequent passing will quickly diminish fuel economy.

Annual Fuel Cost

The EPA calculates that owners of the 2016 Buick Envision AWD 2.0L can expect to spend approximately $2,650 annually on fuel. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Your actual fuel expenses will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific type of driving you do. Those who primarily drive in the city or have a lead foot will likely exceed this estimate, while those who stick to highway driving and prioritize fuel efficiency may spend less.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, some Envision owners experience slightly lower gas mileage in real-world conditions. Factors such as hilly terrain, inclement weather, and the use of all-wheel drive can negatively impact fuel consumption. The Envision’s turbocharged engine also encourages spirited driving, which can lead to a dip in MPG. Owners who are particularly mindful of fuel economy and regularly monitor their driving habits may be able to match or even exceed the EPA estimates, but most should anticipate a range of around 19-24 MPG in mixed driving.

How it compares

The 2016 Buick Envision’s fuel economy trails some of its competitors. The Acura RDX (non-AWD) manages 23 MPG combined, and the Lexus NX 300h hybrid achieves a significantly better 31 MPG combined. Even the Lincoln MKC, with its available 2.3L turbo, posts similar numbers to the Envision, despite offering more power. The Audi Q5, another popular choice in this segment, achieved 22 MPG combined with its 2.0T engine in 2016, matching the Envision’s figure. For Buick Envision buyers who prioritize a premium experience and standard AWD over outright fuel efficiency, these differences may be acceptable. But for those more focused on fuel costs, exploring the ENVISION MPG across all years may uncover more efficient options.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Optimize your tire pressure. Maintaining the correct tire inflation, as specified on the sticker in the driver’s side doorjamb, reduces rolling resistance and significantly improves fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes, as pressure can fluctuate.

Drive smoothly and avoid aggressive acceleration. The Envision’s turbo engine responds eagerly to throttle input, but resist the urge to floor it at every opportunity. Gentle acceleration and consistent speeds will keep the engine in its most efficient operating range.

Minimize idling. Excessive idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine, especially in city driving. The Envision lacks an automatic start/stop system, so this is a manual effort.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo adds weight to the vehicle, which reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger compartment to lighten the load, particularly for frequent short trips.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a constant speed, which can improve fuel economy on long highway journeys. However, be mindful of terrain changes, as cruise control may downshift unnecessarily on hills, negating some of the fuel-saving benefits. Browse all Buick fuel economy data to gain a wider perspective.