Does Lexus RX 350 have good gas mileage?
Yes. The Lexus RX 350 offers competitive fuel efficiency for a luxury midsize SUV, though it trails the hybrid RX 350h and some rivals in its class.
In this report, we examine what you can expect in real-world fuel economy, how the numbers differ by year and drivetrain, how it stacks up against the hybrid and competing models, and practical tips to squeeze more miles from each tank.
Understanding the numbers: EPA ratings by drivetrain
Note: The figures below reflect typical EPA estimates for recent RX 350 models. For model year 2023 and later, the RX 350 uses a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Actual mileage depends on driving style, road conditions, weather, load, and optional equipment.
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): EPA estimates generally place the RX 350 in the mid-to-high 20s in combined mileage (roughly 25–28 mpg), with city mileage in the mid-20s and highway mileage in the low-to-mid 30s.
All-Wheel Drive (AWD): EPA estimates typically fall in the mid-20s for combined mileage (roughly 23–26 mpg), with city around the low 20s and highway into the high 20s or low 30s.
In practice, your numbers will vary with traffic, terrain, and how you drive. The AWD version tends to be slightly less efficient in city driving, while highway performance can be similar between configurations.
How it compares: RX 350h and rivals
The choice between the RX 350 and its hybrid sibling can have a meaningful impact on fuel costs, especially for drivers with substantial city dwell-time or commutes.
RX 350h (hybrid): The hybrid variant typically delivers noticeably higher mpg, commonly in the low- to mid-30s combined, with highway efficiency pushing into the 40s in favorable conditions.
Rivals (non-hybrid luxury SUVs): Many luxury competitors with 4-cylinder turbo engines or mild-hybrid setups achieve similar highway mileage, but real-world combined mpg is often lower if city driving dominates. The exact figures depend on the engine and drivetrain, but expectations generally fall in the mid-20s to upper-30s range for hybrids vs. mid-20s for many non-hybrids.
Bottom line: if maximizing mpg is a priority, the RX 350h offers a clear advantage. If you’re choosing a non-hybrid RX 350, you’ll still be within a reasonable range for a luxury SUV, but you may lag behind efficient hybrids and some compact rivals in stop-and-go driving.
Tips to maximize fuel economy
There are practical steps you can take to squeeze more miles out of every gallon, whether you own the RX 350 or are researching it for a purchase.
Maintain proper tire pressure: Check tire pressure monthly and keep it at the manufacturer’s recommended level to reduce rolling resistance.
Use eco or standard efficiency driving modes: If your model includes an Eco mode, use it for city driving to optimize throttle response and climate control.
Drive smoothly: Avoid rapid accelerations; anticipate traffic flow and use gradual deceleration when possible.
Plan routes and reduce idling: Combine trips and minimize long idling periods; turn off the engine when appropriate in parking lots.
Streamline the vehicle: Remove roof racks or cargo carriers when not needed to reduce aerodynamic drag and weight.
Regular maintenance: Keep engine and fuel-system components in good shape; replace air filters, spark plugs, and oil on schedule to preserve efficiency.
With attentive driving and routine upkeep, you can achieve better real-world fuel economy from the RX 350.
Summary
The Lexus RX 350 provides competitive fuel economy for a luxury midsize SUV, particularly with the FWD setup. It remains a solid choice for buyers prioritizing comfort and practicality, but if maximizing miles per gallon is a top concern, the RX 350h hybrid stands out as the more economical option. In comparison with rivals, the RX 350 sits in a reasonable efficiency band for its class, with variants and driving conditions driving the difference.
