Does the 2024 Lexus RX 350h require premium gas?
Yes, the 2024 Lexus RX 350h hybrid SUV requires premium gasoline, according to the manufacturer's recommendations. This high-end luxury vehicle is designed to operate optimally with 91 octane or higher fuel.
Detailed Explanation
The 2024 Lexus RX 350h is a hybrid version of the popular RX midsize luxury SUV. It combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor to provide a balance of power and efficiency. Lexus specifically states in the owner's manual that this hybrid model requires the use of premium unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 91.,
Using regular 87 octane fuel in the RX 350h is not recommended, as it could lead to reduced performance, decreased fuel economy, and potential engine damage over time. The higher-octane premium fuel is necessary to prevent knocking or pinging in the engine, which can occur with lower-octane regular gas.,
The premium fuel requirement is common for many luxury and performance-oriented vehicles, as the engines are designed to operate most efficiently with higher-octane gasoline. This allows for features like higher compression ratios, turbochargers, or hybrid systems to function as intended without risk of premature ignition or other issues.p>
Fuel Economy and Cost Considerations
While the premium fuel requirement may result in slightly higher fuel costs, the 2024 Lexus RX 350h is still expected to deliver excellent fuel economy for a midsize luxury SUV. The EPA estimates it will achieve 36 mpg in city driving and 33 mpg on the highway, with a combined rating of 35 mpg.
Owners will need to factor in the premium fuel costs when budgeting for the RX 350h's operating expenses, but the hybrid powertrain's efficiency should help offset some of those higher fuel expenses compared to a non-hybrid model. Overall, the premium fuel requirement is a trade-off for the RX 350h's performance and efficiency capabilities.
Does the Lexus 350h require premium gas?
Yes, a Lexus 350h requires premium gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher for optimal performance and engine protection, although it will run on regular 87-octane fuel with some decrease in performance. Using premium fuel is recommended to maximize power, fuel efficiency, and prevent engine knock, and some sources note it can help reduce wear over time.
- Recommended: Premium unleaded gasoline, 91 octane or higher.
- Minimum: Regular unleaded, 87 octane.
- Impact of using regular: You may experience reduced engine performance and slightly lower fuel economy.
- Impact of using premium: The engine operates at its peak efficiency, leading to better performance and potentially reducing long-term wear.
What is the weakness of the Lexus RX 350?
Early Lexus RX 350 releases experienced steering issues, notably power steering fluid leaks from the rack and pinion system. Not only is this a massive safety hazard – it can also be costly to repair.
Does the 2024 Lexus RX 350 require premium gas?
Whether your Lexus RX needs premium gas depends on its age. Most 2024 and 2023 models require premium unleaded gas with an octane rating of 91 or higher. Models released between 2012 and 2022 use unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher.
What happens if you accidentally put 87 instead of 91 in a Lexus?
If you accidentally put 87 octane instead of 91 in a Lexus, your car will likely experience a loss of power and performance, and you may hear engine knocking or pinging. Modern Lexus models have knock sensors that adjust the engine's timing to prevent damage from lower octane fuel, but this reduces power. While a single tank is unlikely to cause serious damage, it's best to avoid heavy acceleration and fill up with the correct 91+ octane fuel as soon as possible to dilute the lower-octane gas.
What to expect
- Reduced performance: The engine may feel sluggish, with slower acceleration and reduced power output.
- Engine knocking or pinging: This is a rattling or pinging sound that occurs when the fuel detonates prematurely, especially under acceleration or when going uphill.
- Lower fuel efficiency: You may visit the gas station more frequently, which could negate any short-term savings on fuel.
- Potential for damage (older vehicles): Older Lexus models may not have the same sophisticated knock sensors. Repeatedly using 87 octane in a car that requires 91 can lead to engine damage over time.
What to do
- Avoid heavy acceleration: Drive gently to prevent the engine from knocking.
- Fill up with premium fuel: When your tank is low, fill it with the correct 91+ octane gas. This will dilute the remaining 87 octane fuel.
- Monitor your engine: Pay attention to any persistent knocking or changes in performance.
- Consult your owner's manual: Check the manual for the specific octane requirement of your Lexus model.
- Seek professional help if needed: If the knocking continues after filling up with premium gas, have a mechanic check the knock sensors and ignition timing.
