GM's Most Fuel-Efficient New SUVs for Commuting to Calgary
GM's Most Fuel-Efficient New SUVs for Commuting to Calgary
Posted on April 1, 2025
Okotoks may be home, but if Calgary workplaces offer you a spot on your roster, they’ll be where you hang your hat for half the day, rain or shine. After all, if in-office or hybrid-work-from-home models call for a commute, you can bet you’ll need a great vehicle for your job!
General Motors, our OEM, provides a powerful array of new SUVs designed for fuel efficiency to suit different requirements and tastes. Let’s explore your options and narrow down to 3 satisfying options (namely the Equinox, Blazer EV, and Encore GX) for the average commuter to leave Okotoks confidently each morning, Monday to Friday.
A Quick Look at Your Options for GM Models that Go the Distance Between Okotoks and Calgary
When driving between Okotoks and Calgary, it’s essential to have a vehicle adept at managing varying weather conditions while offering outstanding fuel efficiency and comfort during the journey. GM presents the leading options for these criteria.
| Category | Vehicle |
|---|---|
| Best Overall Fuel Efficiency | New Chevrolet Equinox |
| Best Compact SUV for Urban Commuting | New Buick Encore GX |
| Best Electric SUV for Long Commutes | New Chevrolet Blazer EV |
These cars stand out for their exceptional fuel economy and come equipped with distinctive features and capabilities. They are ideally suited for a range of commuting situations, designed to meet the specific mobility requirements of individuals while incorporating advanced hybrid technology in various models.
New Chevrolet Equinox - Best Overall Gas-Only Fuel Efficiency
With 9.8 L/100km city fuel efficiency, the Equinox stretches every litre for Okotoks commuters tackling daily drives to Calgary. Through a test drive, you can discover how it’s perfect for balancing school runs here in town, weekly wholesale hauls in Airdrie, and weekend picnics at Chain Lakes—without constant stops at gas stations on Southridge Drive.
The new Chevrolet Equinox excels as the best overall fuel-efficient SUV, especially for long Calgary commutes. Its turbocharged 1.5L engine provides a smooth and responsive drive, with enough fuel economy to minimize Okotoks-Calgary commuting costs without sacrificing power and responsible winter driving. This great vehicle’s reliability and spacious interior make it a practical option for transporting goods or family members to their work, school, or play in Calgary.
Pros:
- Impressive fuel efficiency: AWD 9.8 L/100km in the city and 8.1 L/100km on the highway (2A, QE2, Stoney)
- Turbocharged 1.5L engine
- with 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque
- Maximum cargo capacity of 1798 L when the rear seats are folded down
- Ample cargo space
- Reliable performance
Cons:
- Not the most powerful engine from GM
- Some would say, about-average interior materials
On the downside, the Equinox’s engine may not satisfy those seeking high performance on Highway 2A or QE2 runs, and the interior materials, while functional, lack the same luxury as you’ll find in our favorite Buicks. Nevertheless, these minor drawbacks are outweighed by its fuel efficiency and cargo space, and functional good looks, perfect for most commuters on the road to Calgary.
Rating:
- Price: 8/10
- Design: 7/10
- Fuel Economy: 9/10
- Comfort: 8/10
- Technology: 7/10
New Buick Encore GX - Best Compact SUV for Urban Commuting
The Encore GX’s nimble handling and 11-meter turning radius shine in Calgary’s concretized downtown or Okotoks’ bustling core storefronts on Elizabeth Street. Our sales advisors are ready to show you how it’s ideal for dodging potholes on Northridge Drive, squeezing into crowded lots at the Rec Centre, or grabbing a coffee at the café without the parking stress.
The new Buick Encore GX distinguishes itself in the compact SUV market as an optimal choice for navigating city or town environments. Its compact dimensions and agile steering facilitate ease of movement through the congested streets and parking challenges found on the way to Calgary.
With its notable fuel efficiency, it serves as an economical vehicle for routine travel, while advanced safety features provide additional confidence during urban trips especially, all in the kind of style we’ve come to love here in Okotoks.
Pros:
- FWD fuel economy of 8.1 L/100km in the city and 7.6 L/100km on the highway, great for Blackfoot Trail, Glenmore traffic jams, 17th Ave, McLeod Trail
- Cargo capacity of 23.5 cubic feet
- Excellent maneuverability
- Advanced safety features
- Modern technology
Cons:
- Smaller cargo space
- Somewhat less powerful engine; Turbocharged 1.3-liter engine with 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque
While we love this vehicle for its car-like style and panache, Okotoks residents requiring substantial cargo capacity may find the smaller storage area a constraint, and its engine might not deliver the power characteristic of larger SUVs like the Blazer EV.Nevertheless, with its combination of efficient gas-only performance, safety considerations, and contemporary technology amenities, the Encore GX emerges as the kind of option for careerists in Okotoks who primarily drive within city limits and groomed streets here in town.
Rating:
- Price: 8/10
- Design: 8/10
- Fuel Economy: 9/10
- Comfort: 7/10
- Technology: 8/10
New Chevrolet Blazer EV - Best Electric SUV for Long Commutes
With 449 km of range, the Blazer EV handles round trips to Calgary’s East Hills Costco plus detours to Bragg Creek’s Nordic Centre—even in -20°C winters, it can still go hundreds of kilometers. Precondition the battery via app while skiing at Winsport, then recharge 125 km in 10 minutes—faster than finishing a Tims double-double back in town.
The new Chevrolet Blazer EV stands out as the premier choice for an electric SUV, particularly suited to long daily drives with its ability to travel ~450-520 km on a single charge. This resilience greatly diminishes the necessity of frequent stops to recharge and is perfect for those with substantial commutes between our favourite town and Canada’s third largest city.
When you’re dealing with Deerfoot every day, speed and power matter; the instant application of torque from its electric motor delivers a seamlessly responsive driving experience, while swift access to fast charging stations in Calgary adds convenience for Okotoks owners looking to get back home with a full battery. On the other hand, there’s plenty of range to get you home so you can trickle charge on a level 1 or level 2 charger!
Pros:
- Energy consumption rate of 18-20 kWh/100km
- Instant torque for smooth acceleration
- a GM-estimated range of up to 449 km on LT eAWD and up to 521 km on RS with available RWD on a full charge
- Access to fast chargers
- Lower maintenance costs
Cons:
- Higher initial purchase price; greener fuel savings offset by upfront cost or financing bills
- EVs like the Blazer EV hold less charge when parked outside in the winter
One potential downside is the elevated upfront cost associated with acquiring this vehicle—a common trait among electric vehicles in our vast EV, hybrid, and gas-only inventory.
But money up front is well spent; prospective savings in fuel expenditures and reduced maintenance requirements over time can render this investment financially sound. With state-of-the-art technology and formidable range capabilities, the Blazer EV positions itself as an attractive option for individuals ready to adopt updated and next-gen commuting vehicles.
Rating:
- Price: 7/10
- Design: 9/10
- Fuel Economy: 10/10
- Comfort: 9/10
- Technology: 9/10
AWD vs FWD Buick or Chevrolet Model Considerations
As our sales advisors can tell you, the AWD models from GM tackle icy merges onto Deerfoot Trail and unplowed backroads to the High School, while FWD’s lighter frame saves fuel for weekday errands along Southridge Drive. Choose your weapon for Alberta’s moody winters.
Navigating the Okotoks to North Calgary commute—whether you’re merging onto Deerfoot Trail or cruising past the iconic Big Rock—demands a vehicle that balances efficiency, safety, and local practicality. Here’s how the Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Blazer EV, and Buick Encore GX cater to Okotoks drivers in different ways.
Navigating the winter streets of Calgary requires careful consideration when selecting between AWD and FWD for a vehicle. The Blazer EV and Equinox both provide really tempting options for AWD to improve grip on icy roads, vital for maneuvering in winter conditions.
With its immediate torque delivery, the Blazer EV is particularly adept at handling slick surfaces. EVs hold less charge when parked outside in the winter, 77% of full capacity, at around −15 °C, but for a commute car, this vehicle has more than enough for Calgary-bound Okotoks residents.
As another great AWD option, the Equinox’s traditional and reliable AWD system ensures dependable driving capabilities.
If you’re not worried about road conditions, because you arrive later and leave the office later, the Buick Encore GX with FWD are more suitable for city commuting where snow removal is consistent, most of the traffic in the city has already forged a path, and extreme winter road conditions are less common.
Typically, these FWD types of vehicles deliver superior fuel efficiency and reduced maintenance expenses compared to their counterparts, proving beneficial for those who primarily drive within urban limits and not the countryside.
The best AWD vehicles for life and work out in Foothills County are well suited to the Deerfoot in rough wintry conditions, before traffic and snow removal has had a chance to really rut a path for your vehicle!The decision to go with either AWD or FWD should be informed by an individual’s unique travel requirements along with frequent driving environments they face.
How to Choose the Best Fuel-Efficient SUV for Calgary Commutes
Okotoks is a bustling hub that draws both residents and tourists, providing an extensive selection of stores, eateries, and local festivities which highlight the unique appeal of the neighborhood. But when you’re going to Calgary and back multiple times per week, you need something that will take you the whole distance, for years without breaking the bank. Most of your concern will be fuel economy if you’re in office 5 days a week!
Other than that, cargo space is essential, especially for transporting goods or passengers along for the ride (carpool anyone?). Safety features, comfort, and technology also enhance the daily drive.
For long commutes, the new Chevrolet Blazer EV is an excellent option with its impressive range and advanced features. For urban commuting, the new Buick Encore GX offers the maneuverability and efficiency needed for city driving.
The new Chevrolet Equinox EV balances spacious practicality and good fuel efficiency at an accessible price. When choosing, consider your specific commuting needs and preferences. Whether it’s the advanced technology of the Blazer EV, the compact efficiency of the Encore GX, or the all-around performance of the Equinox, there’s a GM SUV to fit your lifestyle.
Also, consider Calgary’s driving conditions, such as Deerfoot, Highway 2A, Stoney Trail, or the QE2; including winter weather into your decision may influence your choice between AWD and FWD configurations—as it should!
Visit Okotoks GM to Scope Out the Best Vehicles for Your Commute to Calgary
Prioritize SUVs with fuel-sipping engines for 40km commutes, safety tech for black ice on Macleod Trail, and cargo space for hockey gear + Costco bulk buys. Bonus: heated seats for frosty mornings waiting at a main street drop-off zone.
GM is well known among our sales advisors and our community itself for a great selection of efficient SUVs suited to the big commute to Calgary. Notably, the new Chevrolet Equinox has kept surprising us through its superior fuel efficiency and practical features, positioning it as an optimal vehicle for extended commutes. Plus, it too provides an EV alternative for even better fuel efficiency than the one we talked about! Check out our electric vehicles to find one.
But if a premium feeling and good gas-only economy is your style, a new Buick Encore GX thrives in city environments and groomed highway merges, due to its smaller stature and cutting-edge safety technology.
Schedule a test drive to try out the electric capabilities and remarkable range of the new Chevrolet Blazer EV, providing a vision of future transportation and great fuel economy; you might be amazed at the acceleration and sleek next-gen features. When selecting an appropriate SUV for your needs—whether you’re maneuvering through urban thoroughfares in Calgary or setting off on longer journeys in the rest of Alberta—it’s fuel economy, cargo capacity, safety features, and technological advancements will all be first on your mind.