The 2024 Buick Encore GX AWD with the 1.3L three-cylinder engine gets 27 MPG combined, a figure that, while not class-leading, is acceptable for typical buyers: young professionals and empty-nesters who want style, maneuverability, and an elevated seating position more than ultimate fuel savings. It’s a stylish vehicle designed for ease of use in urban environments, with the benefit of all-wheel drive for confident all-weather capability.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Encore GX AWD gets 26 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure is probably more relevant for most Encore GX drivers, since this small SUV is good at navigating crowded streets and tight parking spaces. The 28 MPG highway rating means it won’t break the bank on longer road trips, but it shows that the small engine works harder at higher speeds, especially with the added weight and friction of the all-wheel-drive system. The nine-speed automatic transmission helps get good fuel economy across the speed range, but it’s not the same as a larger, naturally aspirated engine or a more advanced hybrid powertrain.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2024 Buick Encore GX AWD 1.3L is $1,600. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits and where you live. If you drive mostly in the city or drive aggressively, expect to spend more. But if you do mostly highway driving and drive efficiently, you might spend less than $1,600.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standard for comparison, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Drivers often report numbers close to the EPA’s, but terrain, weather, and driving style all matter. Expect slightly lower MPG in colder climates where the engine warms up slower and the all-wheel-drive system is used more. Quick acceleration and heavy braking will also hurt fuel efficiency. The best way to know your real-world MPG is to watch your own driving and track fuel consumption over time.

How it compares

The Encore GX’s fuel economy is in the middle of its class. The front-wheel-drive version does better, of course. The Kia Seltos, another popular subcompact SUV, gets up to 31 MPG on the highway in its front-wheel-drive form, but that drops with AWD. The Mazda CX-30 with its 2.5L engine delivers around 28 MPG combined, but performance is valued over ultimate efficiency. A smaller SUV like the Nissan Kicks, which is FWD only, gets around 31 MPG combined. Buyers of the Encore GX AWD probably want features like Buick’s upscale interior and technology more than squeezing every last mile from a gallon of gas. You can view all Buick fuel economy data, as well as ENCORE MPG across all years on this site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2024 Buick Encore GX AWD, like any vehicle, rewards good driving. Smooth acceleration and watching the traffic can help fuel economy, especially in stop-and-go city driving. Don’t speed up quickly, and keep a steady pace when you can.

Regular maintenance is important for good fuel efficiency. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, and a well-maintained engine runs better. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, including oil changes and air filter replacements.

Extra weight can hurt fuel economy, especially in a small SUV. Remove unneeded items from the vehicle to reduce the load on the engine. Carrying extra weight makes the engine work harder and use more fuel.

All-wheel drive gives more traction and stability, but it also adds weight and increases drivetrain friction, both of which can reduce fuel economy. Only use all-wheel drive when you need it, such as in slippery conditions. Driving in two-wheel-drive mode when possible will save fuel.