22 MPG combined is a respectable figure for the 2019 Buick Regal AWD 3.6L 6-cyl. This vehicle is primarily for those who value a blend of sporty handling, all-weather traction, and a touch of understated luxury. This isn’t a Prius competitor, nor is it intended to be. The Regal AWD caters to drivers prioritizing enjoyable driving dynamics and confidence in varied conditions over outright fuel savings. They accept the fuel cost penalty as a trade-off for the enhanced performance and capability.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2019 Buick Regal AWD with the 3.6L V6 put city driving at 19 MPG and highway cruising at 27 MPG. The lower city MPG reflects the engine’s need to work harder in stop-and-go situations, especially with the added weight and friction of the all-wheel-drive system. The highway number, however, demonstrates the Regal’s ability to achieve reasonable efficiency on longer trips, aided by the nine-speed automatic transmission’s ability to keep the engine in its optimal efficiency range. The 27 MPG figure is particularly relevant for those who commute or regularly undertake road trips, lessening some of the potential fuel cost concerns associated with the AWD system and larger engine. These numbers are only possible when using the correct fuel; be sure to check your owner’s manual.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Buick Regal AWD 3.6L 6-cyl at precisely $2,000. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices at the time of testing. It’s critical to understand that this is an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you typically drive on, and fluctuating fuel prices in your area. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips in cold weather, and extended idling can all significantly increase your fuel consumption and potentially push your annual fuel expenses above the $2,000 mark. Keep in mind this estimate does not include other costs such as oil changes.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Some owners report figures slightly below the EPA combined number, particularly in areas with congested traffic or hilly terrain. However, careful drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration and consistent speeds on the highway can often achieve numbers closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA estimates. The Regal’s driving experience also factors in; its responsive V6 engine can be tempting to exploit, which will naturally impact fuel consumption. The key is to be mindful of driving habits and prioritize efficient driving techniques to maximize fuel economy in everyday use. Don’t expect to get 40MPG, but you can come close to matching the EPA’s estimates.

How it compares

Compared to other mid-size sedans with all-wheel drive, the 2019 Buick Regal AWD’s fuel economy sits in a reasonable position, although it’s not a class leader. For example, the Toyota Camry AWD with its 2.5L 4-cylinder engine achieves around 28 MPG combined. However, the Camry AWD prioritizes fuel efficiency over outright performance. The Nissan Altima AWD with the 2.5L engine sees around 29 MPG combined. On the other hand, the Kia Stinger GT with its turbo V6 offers similar performance to the Regal but sacrifices fuel economy, achieving approximately 20 MPG combined. These comparisons highlight the trade-offs involved in choosing a mid-size sedan with AWD. Buyers who prioritize fuel economy above all else might consider the Camry or Altima, while those seeking maximum performance might look at the Stinger, accepting the associated fuel cost. You can also look at all Buick fuel economy data to help.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is important for maximizing fuel economy. Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check them at least once a month, especially during temperature changes, as pressure can fluctuate.

Avoid aggressive driving habits, such as rapid acceleration and hard braking. Smooth and consistent driving not only improves fuel economy but also reduces wear and tear on your vehicle. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Remember to enjoy the responsive V6 engine responsibly.

Reduce unnecessary weight in your vehicle. Extra cargo adds to the engine’s workload, decreasing fuel efficiency. Remove any items you don’t need, such as sports equipment, tools, or unnecessary paperwork. Every pound counts, especially in city driving.

Consider using cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and optimize fuel consumption. Cruise control helps prevent unintentional speed fluctuations, leading to better fuel economy on longer trips. The Regal’s comfortable ride and smooth powertrain make it well-suited for highway cruising. If you are looking for other years, check into REGAL MPG across all years.

Minimize idling time, especially in cold weather. Modern engines warm up quickly, so prolonged idling is unnecessary and wastes fuel. Instead, start driving gently after a brief warm-up period. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance, negatively impacting your MPG.