17 MPG combined is what you can expect from the 2017 Buick Enclave AWD with its 3.6L V6. This figure might surprise those considering smaller crossovers or sedans, but to understand the Enclave, you need to understand its buyers and their needs. This Buick is a practical choice for families who truly require spacious three-row seating, ample cargo capacity, and the security of all-wheel drive. For these buyers, space and utility are more important than outright fuel efficiency. They prioritize room for kids, carpools, and road trips, and accept the fuel cost as a necessary trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Buick Enclave AWD at 15 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the high energy demands of stop-and-go traffic and the inherent inefficiencies of moving a vehicle of this size from a standstill. The 22 MPG highway figure is more acceptable and achievable with consistent driving, but still lower than smaller, lighter crossovers. The Enclave’s 3.6L V6, while providing sufficient power, has to work hard to move the vehicle’s considerable weight, especially with all-wheel drive, increasing fuel consumption at both low and high speeds. The six-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, also contributes, since modern transmissions with more gears often improve fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Buick Enclave AWD at $2,600. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% in the city and 45% on the highway. This calculation assumes national average fuel prices. Actual fuel costs will vary based on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. However, the $2,600 figure gives a standardized benchmark for comparing the Enclave’s fuel costs to other vehicles.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized test, real-world fuel economy often differs. Enclave drivers often report numbers close to the EPA estimates, but heavy city driving, aggressive acceleration, or frequent use of all-wheel drive (especially in bad weather) can easily lower these figures. However, consistent highway driving at moderate speeds might allow drivers to exceed the 22 MPG highway estimate. Owners should be aware that factors like tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even roof racks can affect fuel consumption.

How it compares

The 2017 Buick Enclave is in a competitive market. The Acura MDX, for instance, achieves 22 MPG combined in its SH-AWD configuration, offering a slightly more efficient option with similar features and seating. The front-wheel drive version reaches 23 MPG combined. The Infiniti QX60, another popular choice, gets 21 MPG combined, potentially saving buyers a few hundred dollars in fuel each year depending on driving. Even some full-size SUVs like the Chevrolet Tahoe 2WD (19 MPG combined) get close to the Enclave’s fuel economy while offering significantly more towing capacity. These comparisons are important for buyers who need three rows of seats but want to keep their fuel expenses down, which is why looking at ENCLAVE MPG across all years is a good idea. The slightly less efficient Nissan Pathfinder lists a combined 22 MPG.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key. The Buick Enclave’s weight and the V6 engine mean that aggressive starts from a stop use a lot of fuel. Smooth, gradual acceleration allows the engine to operate more efficiently, minimizing fuel consumption in city driving.

Keep tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the pressure recommended on the driver’s side door jamb. This can make a noticeable difference in fuel costs.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Excessive cargo in the vehicle adds to the weight the engine has to move, reducing fuel economy. Remove unnecessary items from the trunk or cargo area to lighten the load and save fuel. This is even more important considering how much families tend to haul.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for a long time wastes fuel. If you anticipate waiting for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Restarting the engine uses less fuel than idling, particularly with modern vehicles. And if you are interested in general all Buick fuel economy data, this is a valuable tip for all their models.