The 2015 Buick Encore 1.4L achieves 28 MPG combined, making it a reasonably fuel-efficient choice, although it’s not the best in its class. This compact SUV is designed for city drivers, empty nesters, and those who want maneuverability and some luxury more than ultimate gas mileage. The Encore’s value is its easy-to-handle size and comfortable interior, and many buyers find the fuel costs a fair price for these advantages.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2015 Buick Encore 1.4L show different fuel economy in city versus highway driving. The 25 MPG city rating reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic, typical for the Encore’s target market. The turbocharger works harder in these conditions, which lowers fuel consumption. On the highway, the Encore gets a more respectable 33 MPG. This shows the 1.4L engine can be efficient when cruising at consistent speeds. To maximize highway mileage, avoid quick acceleration and maintain a steady pace.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Buick Encore 1.4L at $1,550. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year with a set city/highway mix, using national average gas prices at the time. Your actual fuel costs will vary based on your driving, roads, and gas prices in your area. However, this $1,550 estimate is a standard point of comparison for the Encore’s fuel costs against other vehicles. You can compare this figure to all Buick fuel economy data to see how the Encore compares to other Buick models. Also, you can analyze ENCORE MPG across all years to see if later models are more efficient.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates give a solid baseline, understand that many things affect real-world fuel economy. Driving style, tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even weather can change the numbers you see at the pump. Expect lower numbers than the EPA estimates if you drive aggressively, face headwinds, or skip maintenance. On the other hand, gentle acceleration, correct tire inflation, and regular servicing can help you match or beat the EPA’s numbers.

How it compares

The 2015 Buick Encore competes in a tough market, so its fuel economy should be compared to its rivals. The Honda HR-V, for example, often gets better gas mileage, with some models reaching 34 MPG combined. However, the HR-V focuses on practicality and space instead of the Encore’s more upscale interior. The Mazda CX-3 offers sportier handling and often better fuel economy, up to 29 MPG combined. However, the CX-3’s interior isn’t as refined as the Encore’s. The Nissan Juke, with its unique look, can get around 28 MPG combined, matching the Encore, but its driving experience wasn’t as well-developed. Buyers pick the Encore for its small size, elevated driving position, and near-luxury features, not just for saving gas. A Chevrolet Trax offers similar fuel economy at a lower price, but without the Buick’s premium feel. The Kia Soul’s might appeal to some buyers with its higher MPG, but its unconventional styling may not appeal to everyone shopping this vehicle.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Encore’s 1.4L turbo engine works best with a light touch. Avoid fast acceleration and hard braking, as these significantly hurt fuel economy. Smooth, consistent driving lets the turbocharger work efficiently without needing extra fuel. Using cruise control on the highway to keep a steady speed and improve fuel consumption.

Keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressure, which you can find on the sticker inside the driver’s side door. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which lowers fuel efficiency. Check and adjust tire pressure regularly, mainly when the temperature changes.

Reduce extra weight in your Encore. Removing unnecessary cargo from the trunk or back seats reduces the load on the engine, improving fuel economy. Every pound matters, especially in a small vehicle like the Encore. Empty the car of all those unneeded items to put less stress on the engine.

Maintain your Encore regularly, including oil changes, air filter changes, and spark plug checks. A well-maintained engine runs better, which means better fuel economy and a longer life. A healthy engine uses fuel wisely.

Avoid idling for long periods, especially in cold weather. Modern engines warm up quickly while driving, and idling wastes fuel without going anywhere. Turn off the engine if you’ll be stopped for more than a minute or two. Restarting the engine uses less fuel than idling.