While 30 MPG combined won’t excite everyone, it’s perfectly acceptable efficiency for the 2023 Buick Encore GX FWD with its 1.2L 3-cylinder engine. This vehicle isn’t for hypermilers. It’s a stylish, comfortable car for city residents and empty-nesters who want maneuverability, a slightly higher seat, and near-luxury without a huge price. Fuel economy matters, but it’s usually not the main reason to buy one.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Encore GX gets 29 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. These numbers show what the 1.2L engine does well and not so well. The city MPG benefits from the Encore GX’s light weight and the automatic transmission’s ability to quickly change gears in stop-and-go traffic. The highway MPG is good, but shows the engine works harder to maintain faster speeds. The numbers also reflect how aerodynamic the car is. The Encore GX is generally quiet, but driving it at 75+ mph for a long time will definitely lower fuel consumption because of the engine load and wind resistance.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the 2023 Buick Encore GX FWD 1.2L 3-cyl will cost $1,450 per year for fuel. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and average national fuel prices. Keep in mind that changes in fuel prices can significantly change this estimate. Also, your driving habits matter. Fast acceleration, frequent short trips, and consistent highway driving will all affect your personal fuel cost.

Real-world expectations

The EPA does standardized tests, but real-world MPG always varies. Encore GX owners often report numbers close to the EPA’s combined estimate, sometimes a little lower and sometimes a little higher. The actual number depends on several things. How you drive is the biggest and most predictable factor, along with traffic, and even the roads you usually drive on. Regular maintenance, like keeping tires properly inflated, is also important but often forgotten. The ENCORE MPG across all years is relatively consistent, given its design and intended purpose.

How it compares

The Encore GX’s fuel economy is competitive in the subcompact SUV class. For example, the Kia Seltos gets 27 MPG combined with its base engine, and the Mazda CX-30 gets around 26 MPG. Even the popular Honda HR-V only gets 28 MPG combined, showing the Encore GX’s small engine is pretty efficient. These differences can add up over a year. Someone considering a Hyundai Kona SEL with its EPA rating of 30 MPG Combined is making a different decision than someone looking at all Buick fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid fast acceleration. The 1.2L engine is good enough, but not made for aggressive driving. Accelerating gently helps the engine and transmission operate more efficiently, so you’re more likely to get the EPA’s estimated MPG. Small gasoline engines usually do best with smooth driving, which is good because most customers of this car want smoothness and comfort.

Keep tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels on the doorjamb sticker. If you buy tires, make sure the technician sets the final pressures correctly to the tire manufacturer’s specification.

Don’t idle too much. Letting the engine idle for a long time wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than 30 seconds, turn off the engine if it’s safe. This can help the engine last longer between oil changes.

Reduce weight. Carrying extra weight in the car reduces fuel economy. Remove anything you don’t need to make the load lighter and improve efficiency. Also, be careful with roof racks: items in the open air seriously affect aerodynamics, leading to higher fuel consumption.

Plan trips efficiently. Combining errands into one trip and avoiding rush hour can save fuel. Use navigation apps to find the best routes and avoid traffic.