How many miles per gallon does a 2021 Lexus LS 500 get?
The 2021 Lexus LS 500 earns about 23 miles per gallon combined with rear-wheel drive and about 21 mpg combined with all-wheel drive, according to EPA estimates.
Powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with a 10-speed automatic, the LS 500's mileage varies by drivetrain and driving conditions. EPA ratings for 2021 are 19 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 23 mpg combined (RWD) and 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / 21 mpg combined (AWD).
EPA Fuel Economy by Drivetrain
The following figures come from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and reflect typical driving conditions for each drivetrain.
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): 19 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 23 mpg combined
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD): 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / 21 mpg combined
In summary, the LS 500 delivers better highway efficiency with RWD and a modest drop in city and overall efficiency with AWD, due to the additional drivetrain components and weight.
Factors That Influence MPG
Real-world mileage can deviate from EPA numbers based on several factors. Here are key considerations:
- Driving style: smoother acceleration and steady speeds improve mpg.
- Terrain and traffic: hills, stop-and-go traffic, and congestion lower efficiency.
- Vehicle load and options: cargo weight, roof racks, and heavy features reduce mpg.
- Tires and maintenance: properly inflated tires and timely maintenance help sustain efficiency.
- Climate control: air conditioning usage can affect mpg.
Practical tips to maximize efficiency include maintaining proper tire pressure, using cruise control on highways, and minimizing drag by removing roof racks when not needed.
Real-World Considerations and Tips
Manufacturers' EPA numbers are tests under specific conditions; your actual mileage will vary. Here are practical tips to maximize efficiency in a 2021 LS 500.
- Use eco or normal driving modes if available; avoid aggressive throttle inputs.
- Keep speeds moderate and use cruise control on highways when appropriate.
- Ensure tires are inflated to the recommended pressure and wheels are aligned.
- Limit aero drag: remove roof racks when not in use; keep windows closed at high speeds.
- Maintain your engine and drivetrain through regular service intervals and fresh fuel.
With careful driving, the LS 500 can approach its EPA highway efficiency on long trips, though typical city driving will yield lower numbers.
Summary
The 2021 Lexus LS 500's MPG depends on drivetrain: around 23 mpg combined for RWD and 21 mpg combined for AWD, with EPA splits of 19/30 (RWD) and 18/26 (AWD). Real-world mileage will vary, but informed driving and maintenance can help you reach closer to the EPA estimates.
