The 2016 Buick Verano 2.0L turbo gets 24 MPG combined. It might not win any efficiency awards, but it’s a good choice for buyers who want refined performance more than hybrid-level fuel sipping. The Verano, especially the turbo version, is for those seeking an affordable small sedan that feels better than a basic economy car, and who are willing to trade some MPGs for extra power and a premium feel.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Verano 2.0T are 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. These numbers show the car’s characteristics. 21 MPG around town is okay, but not great. It shows the engine needs to work harder in stop-and-go situations. The relatively heavy Verano always benefits from the turbo in city driving. On the open road, however, the 29 MPG highway figure is respectable. The turbocharger allows for relaxed cruising with easy passing power, so you don’t need to downshift often, which can hurt fuel economy. Buick Verano buyer’s want comfortable and effortless highway miles, and this car delivers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Buick Verano 2.0T is $1,800. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving that matches the EPA’s combined MPG calculation. The gas price used in this calculation reflects national averages at the time. Remember that your driving and fuel prices can change your actual costs. If you drive more or less than 15,000 miles per year, or if fuel prices in your area are always higher or lower than the national average, your fuel costs will change.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a good start, but real-world fuel economy is often different. Verano 2.0T owners often get numbers close to the EPA estimates, especially on long highway trips. But, aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and city traffic can easily lower the combined MPG to the low 20s. Think about how you usually drive, and accelerate smoothly and keep a consistent speed for the best results. Regular maintenance, like tire inflation and air filter replacement, also helps fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The 2016 Verano 2.0T is in a crowded group of small sedans, and many get better gas mileage. A 2016 Honda Civic with the 1.5L turbo engine gets a combined EPA rating of 35 MPG, which is better than the Verano. A 2016 Mazda 3 with the 2.5L engine gets about 31 MPG combined, and has similar performance. Buick has other cars with better fuel economy; check all Buick fuel economy data for alternatives. But, these numbers don’t tell the whole story. The Verano is quieter and rides smoother than a Civic or Mazda 3. For those considering a Buick, the VERANO MPG across all years can help in making a choice.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Verano 2.0T does well with a light foot. Avoid fast acceleration and try to see traffic ahead to minimize braking. The turbocharger gives a nice boost, but can use a lot of fuel if you use it too much. Smooth and steady throttle is key to better fuel economy.

Tire pressure is important on the Verano, which can feel slow with low tires. Use the pressure on the driver’s side door jamb. Correct tire pressure can improve fuel economy by up to 3%, and will also make your tires last longer.

Don’t idle for too long, especially in cold weather. Modern engines warm up quickly when driving, so idling wastes gas. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine; also, make sure the car’s auto stop/start system is on.

Cruise control is useful on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed helps fuel economy, especially on long trips. Watch out for hills, though, as frequent downshifts can cancel out the benefits of cruise control. You may need to manually shift to maintain a more consistent speed on hilly roads.

Use a top tier fuel. The Verano 2.0T doesn’t need premium fuel, but using a high-quality gasoline with detergents can help keep the engine clean and running well over time. A clean engine is more efficient.