29 MPG combined is a fuel economy figure any mid-size sedan owner can appreciate, but it’s especially relevant to the person buying a 2019 Buick LaCrosse eAssist. This isn’t some stripped-down econobox; it’s a premium sedan designed for comfort and refinement. It achieves near-30 MPG while coddling its occupants, making it a good choice for those prioritizing efficiency alongside a touch of luxury.

City and highway performance

The Buick LaCrosse eAssist delivers its 29 MPG combined rating through a reasonable spread between city and highway driving. The EPA estimates 25 MPG in the city, which is perfectly adequate for navigating urban landscapes, especially considering the LaCrosse’s size. On the open road, the highway rating climbs to a respectable 35 MPG. This makes it a competent long-distance cruiser, ideal for road trips where fuel costs can quickly add up. Owners will find that the smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission contributes to the vehicle’s overall drivability and efficiency, blending power delivery with optimized fuel consumption. The 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, while not a powerhouse, provides sufficient power for most driving situations, and its eAssist mild-hybrid system provides a subtle boost that aids in both acceleration and fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Buick LaCrosse eAssist to be $1,500. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the EPA’s combined MPG rating and factoring in national average fuel prices. Individual fuel costs will naturally vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the actual percentage of city versus highway miles driven. However, $1,500 represents a solid baseline for projecting your fuel expenses for the year. Understanding this benchmark allows potential buyers to better assess the LaCrosse eAssist’s long-term cost of ownership, enabling sound financial planning. The LaCrosse offers more cabin and trunk space compared to similarly priced hybrids, so the slight hit in MPG is a non-issue for Buick’s target buyer.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy inevitably fluctuates. Factors such as driving style, terrain, traffic conditions, and even tire pressure and vehicle maintenance can all impact actual MPG. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will decrease fuel efficiency, while smooth, gradual acceleration and maintaining a consistent speed will help maximize MPG. The LaCrosse’s onboard computer provides real-time and average MPG readouts, allowing drivers to monitor their fuel consumption and adjust their driving habits accordingly. Owners who prioritize fuel economy can expect to achieve figures close to the EPA estimates, while those with a heavier foot may see slightly lower numbers.

How it compares

In the mid-size sedan segment, the 2019 Buick LaCrosse eAssist competes against a range of vehicles with varying fuel economy. For example, the Toyota Camry Hybrid offers significantly better fuel economy, achieving an EPA-estimated 52 MPG combined in the LE trim. However, the Camry Hybrid prioritizes fuel efficiency above all else, lacking the LaCrosse’s emphasis on ride comfort and interior refinement. The Honda Accord Hybrid is another strong competitor, boasting a 47 MPG combined rating. However, some buyers find its styling less conventional than the Buick’s more traditional design. The Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid is another GM product, but struggles to match the interior appointments of the LaCrosse. For the buyer who wants a premium sedan experience, and isn’t willing to sacrifice size and comfort for the absolute best MPG, the LaCrosse eAssist presents a worthwhile compromise. You can analyze all Buick fuel economy data to see how the LaCrosse eAssist compares to other vehicles in Buick’s lineup. You can also review LACROSSE MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintaining proper tire inflation is critical for maximizing fuel economy in the Buick LaCrosse eAssist. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consuming more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended specification listed on the door jamb sticker.

Gentle acceleration and anticipation of traffic flow can significantly improve fuel efficiency. Avoid abrupt starts and stops, and instead, gradually increase your speed. By anticipating traffic lights and adjusting your speed accordingly, you can coast more often and reduce the need for braking.

Minimize idling time whenever possible. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The eAssist system is designed to restart the engine when needed, so you won’t experience any noticeable delays. Excessive idling consumes fuel without covering any distance, negatively impacting your overall MPG.

Regular vehicle maintenance is essential for optimal fuel economy. Ensure that your engine is properly tuned, that your air filter is clean, and that your oil is changed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, consuming less fuel and reducing emissions.

Reduce unnecessary weight in your vehicle. Extra cargo increases the load on the engine, forcing it to work harder and reducing fuel efficiency. Remove any items you don’t need from your trunk and passenger compartment to minimize weight and improve MPG.