The 2019 Buick Regal’s 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder gets 26 MPG combined, a perfectly acceptable figure. The Regal occupies a somewhat unique space in the market. It’s not a full-blown sport sedan, nor is it a purely comfort-focused cruiser. It blends both, appealing to drivers who want a touch of European handling in a package that’s more attainable than its German rivals; they understand that this balance requires some compromises, including fuel economy that isn’t class-leading.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2019 Regal’s 2.0L turbo are 22 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. The lower city figure reflects the engine’s sensitivity to stop-and-go driving, where the turbocharger is constantly spooling up and down. The S9 automatic transmission, with its wide gear range, certainly helps on the highway, keeping engine speeds low for relaxed cruising and maximizing economy on longer journeys. However, the real-world highway MPG often depends on how aggressively the driver uses the available power. Hard acceleration to pass other vehicles will quickly diminish those gains.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Buick Regal 2.0L at $2,250. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s critical to remember that this is simply an estimate. Your individual fuel costs will vary based on your driving habits, the type of roads you drive on, and fluctuations in local fuel prices. Drivers who primarily travel in congested city environments will likely exceed this estimate, while those who do primarily highway miles may spend less.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized testing data, real-world fuel economy can differ significantly. Many Regal owners report achieving figures close to the EPA estimates, but aggressive driving habits, frequent short trips (where the engine doesn’t fully warm up), and carrying extra weight can all negatively impact fuel consumption. Turbo-charged engines are sensitive to driving style, so gentle acceleration and consistent speeds will yield the best results, while a heavy foot will quickly lead to far less appealing numbers. Owners looking for the best possible MPG should actively manage their driving to suit this type of powertrain.

How it compares

The 2019 Regal’s fuel economy, while decent, is not outstanding compared to some competitors. For instance, a similarly equipped Acura TLX with its 2.4L four-cylinder manages roughly 28 MPG combined. A Mazda6 with its 2.5L turbo can also hover around the same combined MPG figure as the Regal, with what feels like far more engaging driving experience. The Honda Accord 2.0T matches the Regal’s 26 MPG combined, but offers more space and refinement. These differences, while seemingly small on paper, can add up over time and influence purchasing decisions. The Regal presents a strong value, and you can examine all Buick fuel economy data to understand how its lineup stacks up.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy in the Regal. Avoid sudden bursts of speed or aggressive throttle inputs. This is especially important with a turbocharged engine, as aggressive driving forces the turbo to work harder, increasing fuel consumption significantly. The engine is responsive enough even with conservative acceleration.

Regular maintenance is crucial for optimal fuel efficiency. Ensure that the tires are properly inflated, the engine oil is clean, and the air filter is replaced as recommended. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently and consumes less fuel. Following the recommended service schedule in the owner’s manual will pay dividends.

Minimize idling time. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Excessive idling wastes fuel and contributes to emissions. Modern cars warm up very quickly, so there’s no need to let the engine run for extended periods before driving. Even the mildest stop light is made less impactful to your MPG by this simple step.

Reduce aerodynamic drag. Remove any unnecessary cargo from the roof rack or trunk. These items add weight and increase wind resistance, reducing fuel economy. Consider using a cargo carrier only when needed and removing it when not in use. Making the car as slick as possible is an age-old and reliable trick for any vehicle.

Plan your routes strategically. Avoid congested areas and times of day when possible. Driving in stop-and-go traffic reduces fuel efficiency significantly. Using navigation apps to find the most efficient route can save you time and fuel, and if you’re trying to save fuel, remember to check REGAL MPG across all years, as there may be different outcomes than 2019.