This winter I've had AC button turned off in control screen climate settings menu but wondering if anyone here have tracked fuel economy difference between AC turned on compared to AC turned off in these cars. Wondering if there is a substantial AC hit to fuel economy and what the downside might be of leaving AC turned off for extended periods.

 

should be run on a regular basis to prevent the seals in the air con system from drying out. i never turm AC off it is on summer and winter

 

Fuel economy is complex.

Yes, A/C system as implemented in autos, needs energy and will consume power. At the end it is your comfort [will talk about a specialized safety later, impact on longevity]. Optimum comfortable temperature is not the same for all. Some can live with lowered windows. Lowering the windows increases drag and fuel economy suffers. You can experiment and make it a science project. I set it on Auto and practically at all times keep the windows rolled up. I just adjust the temp between 72-78 based on layers of clothing all four seasons.

Longevity of seals require running the A/C in cool mode. Those with Hybrid already know that traction battery life shortens with heat, so keep the AC on.

A/C in winters help defog the glass surfaces by removing humidity [safety].

Yes fuel is getting expensive, so a better approach might be is to drive less. But don't do things that makes your drive less enjoyable. Take care of proper maintenance and keeping your vehicle in top form [you will save lot more].

Salim