The 2017 Buick LaCrosse AWD with the 3.6L V6 gets 23 MPG combined. While this won’t win any fuel economy awards, it’s the expected tradeoff for a full-size sedan offering a smooth, quiet ride and confident all-weather traction. This isn’t a car built for extreme fuel efficiency. It’s designed for those who prioritize quiet and space, and who are willing to trade some MPG for those attributes.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the LaCrosse AWD at 20 MPG in the city. This reflects the engine’s increased effort navigating stop-and-go traffic, plus the added weight and drivetrain losses from the all-wheel drive system. The LaCrosse performs better on the open road, achieving 29 MPG on the highway, where the aerodynamic design and eight-speed automatic transmission allow the engine to cruise efficiently. The highway MPG allows for comfortable long-distance driving without excessive fuel stops, which is important for many LaCrosse owners who use their vehicles for road trips and visiting family.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Buick LaCrosse AWD 3.6L is $1,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and uses the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you drive, and the current price of gasoline in your area. This number serves as a good point of comparison to understand the vehicle’s running costs. see how it compares to other Buick models, check all Buick fuel economy data.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized testing method, but your actual fuel economy may differ slightly. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and cold weather can all negatively impact MPG. Maintaining proper tire inflation, performing regular maintenance, and avoiding unnecessary idling can help you get closer to the EPA estimates. LaCrosse drivers who focus on fuel efficiency can expect to see numbers within a MPG or two of the official ratings, while those with a heavier foot might see slightly lower figures. Individual results always vary.

How it compares

The LaCrosse is in a segment where fuel economy is often less important than size and comfort. Understanding how it compares against rivals is still important. A comparable 2017 Toyota Avalon, may achieve around 24 MPG combined in V6 form (FWD only), offering a slight edge in efficiency but lacking the LaCrosse’s available all-wheel drive. A Chrysler 300 with AWD and a V6 rates around 21 MPG combined, making the LaCrosse a slightly better choice for those prioritizing fuel savings. Buyers looking at the aging Lexus ES series might average around 24 MPG with the ES 350. These comparisons illustrate the LaCrosse’s position, not the most efficient in its class, but also not the worst for a large sedan offering the grip of all-wheel drive. See LACROSSE MPG across all years for year-to-year differences in economy.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The smooth 3.6L V6 in the LaCrosse responds well to gentle acceleration. Avoid aggressive starts and stops, and focus on maintaining a steady speed. The eight-speed automatic transmission is programmed for efficiency, so allow it to shift smoothly through the gears without abrupt throttle inputs for optimal MPG returns.

Tire pressure plays a significant role in fuel economy. Regularly check and maintain the recommended tire pressure listed on the driver’s side door jamb. Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consuming more fuel.

Reduce excess weight in the vehicle. Removing unnecessary cargo from the trunk and passenger area can improve fuel efficiency, especially in city driving. The less the engine has to work to move the car, the less gas you’ll burn.

Plan your trips strategically to minimize stop-and-go traffic. Using navigation apps to identify congestion and choosing routes with fewer traffic lights can significantly improve fuel economy, particularly in urban environments. The LaCrosse’s comfortable ride makes it a pleasant long-distance cruiser if you can avoid the rush hour gridlock.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed helps optimize fuel efficiency, especially on long drives. The LaCrosse’s adaptive cruise control system can further enhance efficiency by automatically adjusting speed to maintain a safe following distance, reducing the need for frequent acceleration and braking.