The 2019 Buick Envision AWD with the 2.5L four-cylinder engine gets 24 MPG combined. This isn’t a spectacular number, and it certainly won’t win any hypermiling contests. However, it is a perfectly acceptable trade-off for buyers who prioritize a comfortable, quiet ride and a touch of luxury at a reasonable price point, and the added confidence of all-wheel drive in inclement weather. These buyers understand the Envision’s mission, and fuel economy is simply one factor.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Buick Envision 2.5L AWD gets 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city rating reflects the engine’s need to work harder in stop-and-go traffic, further hampered by the additional weight and drag of the all-wheel drive system and a six-speed automatic transmission that, while smooth, isn’t geared for maximum efficiency.

The highway figure is more promising, as the engine settles into a more relaxed cruising speed, but any aggressive acceleration or hill climbs will quickly see that number drop. This powertrain, while reliable, is not designed for spirited driving and therefore, its efficiency sweet spot is at steady speeds on flat surfaces.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Buick Envision AWD with the 2.5L engine at $1,800. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. The calculation also factors in the national average fuel price, which fluctuates, that was current at the time of the EPA’s testing.

Understand that this is an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and the price of gasoline in your area. However, the $1,800 provides a useful benchmark when considering the overall cost of ownership.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often deviates. Drivers often report achieving figures close to the EPA’s estimates in mixed driving conditions. However, those who primarily drive in congested urban areas, frequently engage the all-wheel drive system, those with a heavy foot can expect to see their MPG drop below 21 MPG.

Conversely, drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration, anticipate traffic flow, and spend a significant portion of their time on the highway might see figures closer to or even slightly above 27 MPG. Maintaining proper tire inflation and performing regular maintenance are also critical for maximizing fuel efficiency. Browsing ENVISION MPG across all years shows slight changes over the model’s lifespan, so comparing yours to owner-reported figures is wise.

How it compares

In the crowded compact SUV segment, the 2019 Buick Envision’s fuel economy stacks up against the competition in interesting ways. The Acura RDX, with its more powerful turbocharged engine and standard all-wheel drive, delivers around 23 MPG combined, a slight dip compared to the Envision. The Nissan Rogue, a popular choice in this class, manages a more impressive 29 MPG combined in its front-wheel drive configuration, but drops a bit when equipped with all-wheel drive, still typically beating the Envision’s numbers.

Even premium options such as the Lexus NX 300h hybrid deliver far more impressive results at around 31 MPG combined, though with a higher price. The Envision buyer values comfort and a hushed cabin, and is willing to accept slightly lower MPG for those features. A competitor providing similar features with better MPG, such as the Volvo XC60 T5 AWD at around 25 MPG combined, might tempt an Envision buyer to cross-shop.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to squeezing the most miles out of every gallon in the Envision. Avoid aggressive starts and hard braking, which force the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. This allows the engine to operate more efficiently and reduces the need for frequent acceleration and deceleration.

Tire pressure plays an important role in fuel economy. Ensure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, which can be found on a sticker located on the driver’s side doorjamb. Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and decreases fuel efficiency, plus increases tire wear.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra cargo adds to the vehicle’s load, which reduces fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need from the trunk and backseat whether that’s golf clubs or winter snow chains. The less weight the Envision has to haul, the more fuel efficient it will be.

Proper vehicle maintenance is critical for optimal fuel efficiency. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements ensure that the engine is running smoothly and efficiently. A well-maintained engine consumes less fuel and delivers better performance. Seeing all Buick fuel economy data reveals that consistent maintenance is important.

Minimize idling whenever possible. Idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Restarting the engine consumes less fuel than idling for an extended period. This is especially important in urban environments where idling at traffic lights is common.