Does 2023 Lexus ES require premium gas?
In brief, it depends on the engine: the ES 350’s 3.5-liter V6 generally benefits from premium fuel, while the ES 300h hybrid can run on regular 87-octane gasoline. Market-specific guidance can vary, so always check the owner’s manual for your region.
How the octane requirement breaks down by engine
ES 350 gasoline engine
The 2023 ES 350 uses a 3.5-liter V6 that is tuned for higher-octane fuel to deliver its stated performance. Lexus typically recommends premium unleaded gasoline (octane rating around 91 or higher) to achieve the engine’s peak horsepower and torque. While regular 87-octane fuel can be used, you may notice reduced power and acceleration, especially during rapid throttle demand or climbs, and fuel economy can suffer.
Fuel octane guidance for the ES 350:
- Premium unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher) is recommended for best performance and efficiency.
- Regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane) can be used, but performance and mpg may decline.
- Running on lower-octane fuel can cause knock sensors to modulate timing, potentially reducing power under load.
- Local market octane ratings differ; follow the octane guidance specified in your region’s owner’s manual.
Conclusion: For drivers seeking maximum performance and refinement, premium fuel is advised for the ES 350. If cost or availability makes regular fuel the default, use it with the understanding that peak performance may be limited.
ES 300h hybrid
The ES 300h uses a hybrid powertrain that pairs a 2.5-liter engine with electric motors. In most markets, regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane) is acceptable and commonly recommended for this model. Premium fuel is not required to operate the hybrid, and there is typically no meaningful performance gain from using higher-octane fuel in this configuration.
Fuel octane guidance for the ES 300h:
- Regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane) is acceptable and generally recommended.
- Premium fuel is not required for the ES 300h; it may not provide noticeable gains in hybrid efficiency or acceleration.
- If you notice knocking or unusual engine note on 87 octane in hot or steep conditions, consult the manual and consider testing a higher-octane fuel to see if there is any improvement.
- Market variations apply; verify local fuel recommendations in the owner’s manual for your region.
Conclusion: For the ES 300h, regular gasoline is standard and sufficient; premium fuel is not necessary unless you encounter specific issues or personal preference for certain driving conditions.
Practical considerations and market differences
Fueling a modern Lexus ES is largely guided by the engine type and regional specifications. In the United States and many other markets, the ES 350’s premium recommendation aims to preserve performance, while the ES 300h emphasizes efficiency with regular gasoline. Drivers in hotter climates, on steep grades, or who frequently drive aggressively may notice more pronounced differences in performance and economy when using lower-octane fuel in the ES 350.
Before filling up, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or the official Lexus site for country-specific fuel requirements. Some regions use different octane rating systems (RON vs. AKI labeling), and the recommended octane may shift accordingly. Following manufacturer guidance helps maintain performance, efficiency, and warranty coverage.
Summary
- ES 350: Premium gasoline (91 octane or higher) is recommended for best performance; regular gasoline can be used but may reduce power and efficiency.
- ES 300h: Regular gasoline (87 octane) is suitable and typically recommended; premium is not required and may not offer noticeable benefits.
- Always verify local fuel recommendations in the owner’s manual, as octane guidance can vary by market.
What Lexus does not require premium gas?
Several Lexus models do not require premium gas, including the ES (ES 250, ES 350, ES 300h) and the UX 250h. The NX 250 also uses regular 87-octane unleaded fuel. Older Lexus models like the CT 200h, ES 300h, ES 350, and RX 350 (from certain model years) also fall into this category.
Models that use regular 87-octane gas
- Lexus ES: ES 250, ES 350, and ES 300h models all use regular unleaded.
- Lexus UX: The UX 250h uses regular gas.
- Lexus NX: The NX 250 uses regular unleaded.
- Older models: Some older models like the 2017 and 2016 CT 200h, ES 300h, ES 350, NX 300h, and RX 350 also use regular gas.
Important considerations
- Check your owner's manual: Fuel requirements can vary by model year, so it is crucial to consult your vehicle's owner's manual for the most accurate information.
- Turbocharged engines: Many Lexus models with turbocharged engines, like the NX 350, require premium fuel for optimal performance.
- Hybrid and plug-in hybrid models: Some hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, like the NX 350h, may recommend premium fuel for optimal performance, but regular fuel is often acceptable, though it may lead to slightly decreased performance.
- Ethanol content: Avoid using fuel with more than 15% ethanol, or "flex-fuel," in any Lexus, and do not use gas containing methanol or MMT.
Does the 2023 Lexus require premium gas?
From the 2023 RX350 owner's manual, use of premium fuel with 91 or higher octane rating is a must or you will void the warranty. They updated the wording from engine performance may be decreased, now they can void your warranty if you use anything other than premium.
What kind of gas does a 2023 Lexus es350 take?
The 2023 Lexus ES 350 uses regular 87-octane unleaded gasoline, although using premium is not harmful, it is not necessary for performance in this model. For optimal performance, it is recommended to use a "Top Tier" brand of gasoline to ensure it meets a higher standard of quality.
- Minimum requirement: The ES 350 is designed for a minimum of 87 octane fuel.
- Premium fuel: While using premium gas (91 octane) will not harm the vehicle, it is not needed for the ES 350 and will not provide any noticeable advantage in performance.
- Best practice: To ensure the best long-term engine health, always use a "Top Tier" certified gasoline brand, which can be identified by looking for the "Top Tier" logo on the pump.
Does the Lexus ES require premium gas?
No, most recent Lexus ES models (including the ES 250, ES 350, and ES 300h) do not require premium gas and can run on regular 87-octane unleaded fuel. While some older models or specific high-performance Lexus vehicles require premium, the ES is designed to use regular gasoline for normal operation without harming the engine. Always check your owner's manual for the most accurate and specific information for your car.
- Fuel requirement: Most recent Lexus ES models are designed to use regular 87-octane unleaded gasoline.
- Why it's not required: The ES is a luxury sedan focused on comfort rather than the high-performance output that necessitates premium fuel in some other Lexus models.
- Older models: For older Lexus ES models, checking the owner's manual is the best way to confirm the correct fuel type.
- Confirm for your vehicle: To be absolutely certain, always consult your specific owner's manual or a dealership as fuel requirements can vary between model years and specific trims.
