The 2017 Buick LaCrosse, equipped with the 3.6L V6, gets a combined fuel economy of 25 MPG, which may not win awards for being green, but it aligns with the car’s mission: providing comfortable, spacious, and smooth transportation for those who value a quiet and refined driving experience over thriftiness. This isn’t a car engineered to hypermile, it’s built for easy cruising.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2017 LaCrosse 3.6L are 21 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. This reflects how the car is typically used. The reliable V6 engine delivers ample power at low RPMs, making city driving effortless, though not particularly efficient. Out on the open road, the well-calibrated eight-speed automatic transmission lets the engine settle into a relaxed cruise, maximizing fuel economy while still providing instant power for overtaking. The highway figure is more relevant to LaCrosse buyers, who often use the car for longer trips and value the quiet cabin and comfortable ride more than stop-and-go fuel savings. They are willing to pay a bit more at the pump for the V6’s refinement and power.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2017 Buick LaCrosse 3.6L is $1,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a key detail for potential buyers because it provides an understanding of the LaCrosse’s running costs. While some might deem it high compared to smaller vehicles with better fuel efficiency, it is a reasonable expense for the size, power, and luxury that the LaCrosse delivers. Check all Buick fuel economy data.

Real-world expectations

While EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy depends on driving habits, road conditions, and maintenance. LaCrosse owners who frequently drive aggressively or spend time in heavy traffic can expect to see numbers closer to the city estimate, or even slightly lower.

On the other hand, those who value smooth acceleration, maintain proper tire inflation, and spend most of their time on the highway could exceed the EPA’s highway fuel economy estimate. 22-28 MPG in mixed driving is a realistic expectation; however, results will vary. Check LACROSSE MPG across all years to see if you can find a model year that better fits your needs.

How it compares

The 2017 LaCrosse faces competition, and its fuel economy is competitive within its class, even though it’s not class-leading. The Toyota Avalon, with its V6, gets a similar combined EPA rating of 24 MPG. The Nissan Maxima, another V6-powered competitor, is rated at 25 MPG combined. Some four-cylinder rivals, such as the Honda Accord (particularly the hybrid variant) offer better fuel economy, but at the cost of the LaCrosse’s V6 power and feel. The LaCrosse is for buyers who appreciate traditional American luxury and a well-isolated driving experience. These buyers often put comfort, power, and space over getting every last mile from a gallon of gasoline.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The eight-speed automatic transmission in the 2017 LaCrosse is designed for efficiency, but it responds best to smooth inputs. Avoid aggressive acceleration and sudden braking because these behaviors will reduce fuel economy. Gentle acceleration allows the transmission to shift smoothly and keep the engine in its most efficient operating range.

Tire pressure is critical for fuel economy and safety. Check and inflate your tires to the pressure recommended on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, requiring the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Make sure your tires are properly aligned.

Regular maintenance helps maintain fuel economy. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance to ensure the engine runs efficiently, since a neglected engine will consume more fuel.

Minimize idling. Modern engines are designed to be shut off and restarted without significant wear, even for short periods. If you expect to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. This can add up to fuel savings.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, leading to fuel economy. Be mindful of traffic conditions and avoid using cruise control in heavy or variable traffic, where it can be less efficient than a human driver adjusting the throttle.