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Does the Lexus IS300 need premium gas?

The short answer is yes, the Lexus IS300 does require premium gasoline (91 octane or higher). This is because the Lexus IS300 is equipped with a high-performance engine that is designed to run on higher-octane fuel to prevent knocking and ensure optimal performance.


Explaining the Lexus IS300's Fuel Requirement


The Lexus IS300 is powered by a 3.0-liter inline-six engine that produces 215 horsepower and 218 lb-ft of torque. This engine is designed to take advantage of the higher octane rating of premium fuel, which allows for a higher compression ratio and more advanced ignition timing. Using regular gasoline in this engine could lead to knocking, reduced power, and potentially even engine damage over time.


Lexus specifically recommends the use of premium unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 91 for the IS300. This is a common requirement for many high-performance and luxury vehicles, as the more advanced engine designs often necessitate the use of higher-octane fuel to function properly and deliver the expected level of performance.


Consequences of Using Regular Gasoline



  • Reduced engine power and performance

  • Increased risk of engine knocking and potential damage

  • Lower fuel efficiency and increased fuel consumption

  • Possible activation of engine warning lights or other issues


While it may be tempting to save money by using regular gasoline, it is not recommended for the Lexus IS300. The potential consequences of using the wrong fuel type outweigh any short-term cost savings. Lexus engineers have designed the IS300 to perform optimally with premium fuel, and using anything else could lead to long-term issues and decreased vehicle performance.

What gas does Lexus is 300 take?


Model YearModel(s)Recommended Minimum Octane Rating
2021ES 250, ES 300h, ES 350, NX 300h, RX 350, UX 200, UX 250h87
2020GS 350, GS F, GX 460, IS 300, IS 350, LC 500, LC 500h, LS 500, LS 500h, LX 570, NX 300, RC 300, RC 350, RC F, RX 450h, RX 450hL91
ES 300h, ES 350, NX 300h, RX 350, RX 350L, UX 200, UX 250h87



Is the Lexus IS 300 good on gas?


Fuel economy is not the IS 300's strong suit, with the all-wheel-drive version only EPA-estimated to return 19 miles per gallon in the city, 26 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined. Over the course of a few days, I'm averaging just over 21 mpg.



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.



Which Lexus doesn't require premium gas?


A luxury vehicle like Lexus may need premium fuel, but the answer to these questions is actually model-specific. Some vehicles, like the Lexus UX 250h, can utilize regular 87-octane fuel, whereas other models, like the 2022 Lexus GX, require premium 91-octane fuel, so the Lexus gas type depends on the model.



Is it OK to put regular gas in a Lexus?


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.



Does the Lexus RX 300 require premium gas?


You must only use unleaded gasoline in the RX, with an octane rating of 87 or higher. This means the Lexus RX does not require premium gasoline, as the premium octane rating is 91 or higher. Of course, you are free to put premium gas in your Lexus RX, as it can provide better performance, but it is not needed.



Does Lexus is300 need premium gas?


Most Lexus models require you use at least 91 octane (premium) gasoline, while there are a few that can use 87 octane regular unleaded.



How many miles will a Lexus 300 last?


250,000-300,000 miles
Typically, a car from Lexus will last 250,000-300,000 miles.



Does Lexus IS 300 need premium gas?


Most Lexus models require you use at least 91 octane (premium) gasoline, while there are a few that can use 87 octane regular unleaded.



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.


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.