25 MPG combined won’t set any fuel-sipping records, but it’s a perfectly acceptable number for the 2023 Buick Envision AWD with its 2.0L turbocharged engine. Envision buyers generally aren’t prioritizing absolute fuel economy, they’re after a stylish, comfortable, and well-equipped compact SUV with available all-wheel drive. The Envision delivers that without being a gas guzzler, a calculated compromise.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2023 Buick Envision AWD at 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving and lower speeds typical of urban environments, where the engine spends more time idling or accelerating.

The highway figure is more indicative of steady-state cruising, where the Envision’s nine-speed automatic transmission can select higher gears to reduce engine RPMs and improve fuel efficiency. That almost-30 MPG highway number makes road trips reasonable, which is crucial for many suburban families considering this Buick.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2023 Buick Envision AWD is $1,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices.

Keep in mind that actual fuel costs will vary depending on your individual driving habits, the type of roads you typically drive on, and fluctuations in fuel prices. A lead foot and predominantly city driving will quickly inflate that $1,750 figure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Drivers may experience slightly better or worse MPG depending on factors such as driving style, traffic conditions, weather, and vehicle maintenance. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and carrying excessive cargo can all negatively impact fuel efficiency.

Conversely, practicing smooth driving techniques and keeping the tires properly inflated can help you achieve or even exceed the EPA estimates. Online forums dedicated to the Envision are full of owners who have managed 30+ MPG on long highway drives, highlighting the potential efficiency when driven conservatively.

How it compares

The Buick Envision AWD competes in a crowded segment, and fuel economy is one factor among many for buyers. Consider the Acura RDX SH-AWD, which is rated at 21 MPG city, 27 MPG highway. Similarly, the Volvo XC60 B5 AWD manages 22 MPG city and 28 MPG highway. These are both premium SUVs that offer all-wheel drive, and they’re generally within one or two MPG of the Envision across the board.

A Lexus NX 350h (hybrid) boasts significantly better fuel economy; the AWD version achieves an estimated 39 MPG combined. The trade-off, of course, is a higher initial purchase price and potentially different driving dynamics. For buyers prioritizing every last MPG, a hybrid is the obvious choice, but the Envision offers a blend of features and price that justifies its slight disadvantage in fuel efficiency. To see all Buick fuel economy data, you can visit FuelEconomyHub.com

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Envision’s drive modes. The default mode is a good balance of performance and efficiency, but the “Tour” mode prioritizes fuel economy by optimizing throttle response and transmission shift points. Switching to this mode on the highway, or during long stretches of steady-speed driving, can noticeably improve your MPG.

Be mindful of your tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended specifications. You can find the correct pressure on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. This is even more important in colder months, where tire pressure naturally decreases.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a few seconds, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to be restarted frequently without causing excessive wear. The Envision’s auto start-stop feature helps with this, automatically shutting off the engine at stoplights. While some drivers find this feature intrusive, leaving it active will improve fuel economy.

Practice smooth driving techniques. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Smooth, gradual acceleration and deceleration will minimize fuel consumption. Consider that the advertised ENVISION MPG across all years are based on ideal driving habits and road conditions, not lead-footed driving.

Keep up with routine maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. A neglected engine will consume more fuel and may also experience performance issues.