The 2016 Buick Regal AWD with the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine gets 22 MPG combined. It’s not a hybrid, and it’s not designed to be a hyper-efficient commuter. This Regal variant delivers confident all-weather traction and some performance in a comfortable, near-luxury package. Buyers who choose this model aren’t only focused on minimizing fuel costs. They want the assurance of all-wheel drive and the quick acceleration from the turbo engine. Practicality and premium touches matter more than squeezing every last mile from a gallon of gasoline.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates that the 2016 Buick Regal AWD achieves 19 MPG in city driving and 27 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect typical driving conditions. Owners will likely see the biggest variation in the city number. Stop-and-go traffic, aggressive acceleration, and short trips will reduce the average considerably. Highway driving, especially at a steady cruise, will more closely align with the EPA’s number, and might even exceed it slightly with careful driving.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Buick Regal AWD at $2,000. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may be higher or lower depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you purchase, and gasoline prices. The $2,000 figure provides a standardized benchmark for comparing this Regal to other vehicles while also giving a general understanding of running costs. Always check current local gas prices to best estimate your personal annual fuel spend.

Real-world expectations

Expect some difference from the EPA estimates. Drivers report real-world combined MPG figures between 20 and 24 MPG. This range is heavily influenced by individual driving styles and daily commutes. Those who experience heavy traffic or drive more aggressively will likely see figures closer to the lower end of that spectrum. Drivers with mostly highway miles and a more relaxed driving style may find themselves closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA’s 27 MPG highway estimate. Understanding these things is key to having realistic expectations.

How it compares

Compared to similar sedans with all-wheel drive from 2016, the Regal’s fuel economy is in the middle. A 2016 Subaru Legacy 2.5i with standard all-wheel drive achieves a better 30 MPG combined, but lacks the Regal’s turbocharged power and available luxury features. A 2016 Acura TLX SH-AWD with the V6 engine gets just 25 MPG combined, which might attract buyers wanting more power but push away others.

For drivers comparing all Buick fuel economy data, the REGAL MPG across all years should be considered.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The Regal’s turbocharger provides ample power, but using it frequently costs more fuel. Gentle acceleration and maintaining a steady pace will improve fuel economy. Use a light touch when accelerating from a stop or climbing hills.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels on the driver’s side doorjamb. This makes a difference.

Reduce idling time. Idling wastes fuel and contributes to lower MPG, especially in the city. If you anticipate a stop of more than 30 seconds, consider turning off the engine. Modern cars like the Regal restart quickly and easily.

Plan ahead to minimize braking. Watch traffic and coast whenever possible to reduce braking. Every time you brake, you’re converting kinetic energy into heat, wasting fuel. Smooth, proactive driving improves efficiency.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, preventing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. This is effective on long highway drives where speed limits are constant. Remember to disengage cruise control in hilly terrain or during bad weather.