20 MPG combined won’t win any awards, but it is the price for the 2016 Buick LaCrosse AWD with the 3.6L V6. This LaCrosse configuration appeals to someone who wants smooth power and all-weather driving instead of saving gas, and who values the quiet, comfortable ride from Buick. This car provides effortless cruising, and the V6/AWD system contributes to that goal, even if it means lower MPG than the front-wheel-drive models.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Buick LaCrosse AWD 3.6L are 17 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city number shows the impact of stop-and-go driving, where the LaCrosse’s weight and automatic transmission affect mileage. The highway number is better. The six-speed automatic transmission optimizes fuel economy at cruising speeds, and the 3.6L V6 doesn’t work hard to maintain speed. Drivers who spend a lot of time on the open road are likely to see numbers close to 26 MPG, especially with light acceleration.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Buick LaCrosse AWD 3.6L at $2,200. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Fuel costs can change based on driving habits, local fuel prices, and fuel type. The $2,200 figure is a useful benchmark for understanding the LaCrosse’s fuel expenses, even if most drivers won’t exactly match the EPA’s 15,000-mile average.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a standard, but real-world fuel economy can change. Aggressive driving, short trips, and heavy loads negatively affect mileage. Gentle acceleration, consistent highway speeds, and good maintenance can help drivers get numbers closer to, or slightly better than, the EPA estimates.

The car’s age and condition also matter. An older LaCrosse with worn tires or a neglected engine probably won’t get the same fuel economy as a well-maintained one.

How it compares

The 2016 Buick LaCrosse AWD 3.6L’s fuel economy is in the middle of its class. For example, the front-wheel-drive Toyota Avalon, with better efficiency, gets 25 MPG combined. A comparable all-wheel-drive sedan like the Chrysler 300S AWD with the 3.6L V6 gets around 19 combined MPG. A smaller, turbocharged engine like the one in a Volvo S60 can deliver slightly better fuel economy (around 28 MPG combined), but it may not have the V6’s smooth power. For buyers who want all-weather traction and a quiet driving experience, the LaCrosse AWD’s slight fuel economy difference is often worth it. Check LACROSSE MPG across all years before deciding.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration helps maximize fuel economy in the 2016 Buick LaCrosse AWD. The 3.6L V6 has enough power, so you don’t have to press hard on the gas pedal. Smooth acceleration will minimize fuel consumption, especially in city driving.

Keep tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder and lowers fuel economy. Check your tire pressure and inflate them to the manufacturer’s level, usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle consumes fuel without moving. If you expect to wait more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines don’t need a long warm-up, so you can restart the car when you’re ready.

Reduce weight. Extra weight in the trunk or cabin lowers fuel economy. Remove unnecessary items from the car to make it lighter and improve efficiency. Every pound affects how hard the engine must work.

Use cruise control on the highway for better fuel economy by keeping the speed steady. Cruise control stops unintended acceleration, which wastes fuel. Don’t use cruise control in hills because it can make the transmission downshift, lowering efficiency. Compare all Buick fuel economy data to help you make informed decisions.