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Does the 2020 Lexus RX 350 require premium gas?

Yes, the 2020 Lexus RX 350 requires premium gasoline, specifically 91 octane or higher. This is a common requirement for many luxury vehicles, as the higher-octane fuel helps optimize the engine's performance and efficiency.


Detailed Explanation


The 2020 Lexus RX 350 is a mid-size luxury SUV that is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine is designed to run on premium gasoline, which has a higher octane rating than regular unleaded fuel. The higher octane rating helps prevent premature ignition, or "knocking," which can cause engine damage over time.


Using regular gasoline in a vehicle that requires premium can result in reduced power, decreased fuel efficiency, and potentially long-term engine issues. Lexus specifically recommends using 91 octane or higher fuel for the best performance and longevity of the RX 350's engine.


Consequences of Using Regular Gasoline


While it is possible to use regular gasoline in the 2020 Lexus RX 350, it is not recommended by the manufacturer. Some of the potential consequences of using regular fuel include:



  • Reduced horsepower and acceleration

  • Decreased fuel efficiency, leading to higher fuel costs

  • Increased risk of engine knocking or pinging, which can cause long-term damage

  • Potential for the engine to run less smoothly or experience misfiring


To avoid these issues and maintain the optimal performance of the RX 350, Lexus strongly advises using premium gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 91.


Conclusion


In summary, the 2020 Lexus RX 350 requires premium gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 91. Using regular gasoline can result in reduced power, decreased fuel efficiency, and potential engine damage over time. To ensure the best performance and longevity of your RX 350, it is recommended to always fill up with premium fuel as specified by the manufacturer.

Can you mix premium and regular gas?


There's nothing wrong with mixing premium and regular gas in the same tank. In fact, this is how midgrade gas is formulated at the station. Rather than drawing from a separate storage tank for each octane rating, gas pumps actively mix high-octane fuel with lower-octane fuel to create midgrade gas.



Can I put regular gas in premium Lexus is 350?


But, does Lexus require premium gas? If you want to continue to enjoy the outstanding power and high-level efficiency offered in new Lexus models, you'll want to utilize the recommended Lexus gas type. Some Lexus vehicles will require premium 91-octane fuel while others can use regular 87-octane fuel.



What happens if I put 87 instead of 91?


If you put lower-octane fuel into your high-octane vehicle, whether by mistake or to save money on gas, you'll probably notice the effects right away: things like poor fuel economy, reduced acceleration, and spark knock, which sounds like a high-pitched pinging or rattling noise.



What happens if you accidentally put 87 instead of 91 in a Lexus?


Use of unleaded gasoline with an octane rating lower than what is listed for your model year vehicle could potentially result in engine knocking. If the octane rating used is less than required, damage to the engine may occur and which could void the vehicle warranty.



Which Lexus models do not require premium gas?


Lexus ES

  • 2022 Lexus ES 250 Fuel Requirement: Regular 87-octane unleaded.
  • 2022 Lexus ES 350 Fuel Requirement: Regular 87-octane unleaded.
  • 2022 Lexus ES 300h Fuel Requirement: Regular 87-octane unleaded.



Is it worth putting 91 instead of 87?


Does Premium Fuel Make Your Car Run Better? Some drivers swear that using a higher-octane fuel is better for a car's performance, but it's not. Engine computers can usually adjust their timing to account for the increased octane levels, so if you put premium gas in a regular car, you probably won't notice anything.



What grade of gas is best for a Lexus RX 350?


RX350: Select premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 (Research Octane Number 96) or higher required for optimum engine performance and fuel economy. If the octane rating is less than 91, damage to the engine may occur and may void the vehicle warranty.



What happens if I don't use premium gas in my Lexus?


If you use regular gas, the high-compression engine may become more likely to detonate. While one fill-up with regular gas isn't expected to cause long-term damage, this repeated habit can lead to the need of severe repairs or an entire engine replacement.



Is Lexus expensive to maintain?


Lexus vehicles usually come with pretty average upkeep costs. According to data from RepairPal, the average annual repair cost for a Lexus vehicle is $551. Naturally, this cost can fluctuate based on vehicle model, age, driving conditions, maintenance practices, and more.



What brand of gas does Lexus recommend?


While most Lexus models are designed to run optimally on premium gas, this can vary somewhat between different models, so for the most accurate information, it's always best to consult the professionals.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.