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Does the Lexus Nx 350 require premium gas?

Yes, the Lexus NX 350 requires premium gasoline, which is typically 91 octane or higher. This is a common requirement for many luxury and high-performance vehicles to ensure optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency.


Detailed Explanation


The Lexus NX 350 is a compact luxury crossover SUV that is powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine is designed to operate at higher compression ratios, which helps to improve power output and fuel economy. However, this also means that the engine requires a higher-octane fuel to prevent knocking or pre-ignition, which can cause damage to the engine over time.


Most automakers recommend using premium gasoline in their high-performance or turbocharged vehicles, as the higher octane rating helps to prevent engine knock and allows the engine to operate at its optimal efficiency. This is the case with the Lexus NX 350, which is designed to run on 91 octane or higher fuel.


Consequences of Using Regular Gasoline


While it is possible to use regular gasoline in the Lexus NX 350, it is not recommended. Using a lower-octane fuel can cause the engine to experience knocking or pre-ignition, which can lead to decreased performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and potentially even engine damage over time.


In addition, using regular gasoline in a vehicle that requires premium fuel can also void the manufacturer's warranty, as it is considered a form of improper maintenance. Lexus specifically states in the owner's manual that premium gasoline is required for the NX 350 to ensure optimal performance and reliability.


Fuel Economy and Performance


Using the recommended premium gasoline in the Lexus NX 350 can also help to improve the vehicle's fuel economy and performance. The higher octane rating allows the engine to operate at higher compression ratios, which can result in increased power output and better fuel efficiency.


According to Lexus, the NX 350 is rated at 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway when using premium gasoline. Using a lower-octane fuel could result in slightly lower fuel economy and performance numbers.


Conclusion


In summary, the Lexus NX 350 requires premium gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 91 to ensure optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency. Using a lower-octane fuel can lead to engine knock, decreased performance, and potentially even engine damage over time. It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations to maintain the vehicle's warranty and get the best possible driving experience.

Does NX200T need premium?


NX200T requires premium! You can't skip out! 93 octane REQUIRED.



How many miles per gallon does a 2025 Lexus NX 350 get?


21 mpg city/28 mpg highway
2025 Lexus NX 350 Luxury AWD: Up to 21 mpg city/28 mpg highway. 2025 Lexus NX 350 F Sport Handling AWD: Up to 21 mpg city/28 mpg highway. 2025 Lexus NX 350h AWD (hybrid): Up to 41 mpg city/37 mpg highway.



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


For one, too low grade gas leads to engine knocking, which can damage your engine in the long run. In addition, using regular gas when you should use premium could void your warranty, which will cost you much more than your small savings at the pump.



Which Lexus models do not require premium gas?


Several Lexus models do not require premium gas, including the Lexus ES 350, RX 350 (older models), NX 250 (some model years), and hybrid models like the UX 250h and NX 350h/450h+ (where premium is recommended but not required). To confirm the correct fuel for a specific vehicle, always check the owner's manual or the vehicle's fuel-door label. 
Models that typically use regular unleaded (87 octane) 

  • Lexus CT 200h
  • Lexus ES 300h and ES 350
  • Lexus HS 250h
  • Lexus NX 250 (some model years)
  • Lexus NX 300h (older models)
  • Lexus RX 350 (models from approximately 2012-2022)
  • Lexus UX 250h (some model years) 

Models where premium is recommended but not required 
  • Some hybrid models, such as the NX 350h and NX 450h+, can use regular gas, but using premium is recommended for optimal performance and to prevent potential engine knocking. 

How to be certain
  • Check the owner's manual: This is the most reliable source of information for your specific vehicle. 
  • Look at the fuel door: The required fuel type is often listed inside the fuel-filler door. 


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.