How many miles per gallon does a LS400 get?
In brief, a Lexus LS400 typically averages around 20 miles per gallon combined, with EPA estimates generally in the high teens for city driving and the mid- to high-20s on the highway, depending on year and condition.
The question spans the LS400’s production years in the 1990s, when the car used a 4.0-liter V8 and a four-speed automatic. Fuel economy varied by model year, driving conditions, maintenance, and exact configuration. This article outlines typical EPA ranges by era and explains real-world factors that influence actual mileage.
EPA estimates by era
The following figures provide representative EPA ratings for the first-generation LS400 across its main production periods. Use them as a guide; real-world numbers can differ.
- 1990–1994 LS400: approximately 16–17 mpg in city driving and about 23–25 mpg on the highway, for a combined rating around 19–21 mpg.
- 1995–1997 LS400: approximately 18–19 mpg in city driving and about 26–27 mpg on the highway, for a combined rating around 21–23 mpg.
In practice, most drivers experienced a combined figure in the low 20s, with variations based on how the car was used and maintained.
Real‑world factors that affect mpg
Actual fuel economy depends on several practical factors beyond the year of the car. The following list covers the main influences you’re likely to encounter.
- Driving style: Aggressive acceleration and full-throttle highway merging can significantly lower miles per gallon, while steady, moderate cruising improves efficiency.
- Maintenance and condition: Regular tune-ups, properly functioning oxygen sensors, clean air filters, and correct spark timing help maximize fuel economy. Worn spark plugs or a clogged fuel injector can reduce efficiency.
- Tire choice and pressure: Under-inflated tires or high-rolling-resistance tires raise energy use and lower mpg; keeping tires inflated to the recommended pressure helps maintain efficiency.
- Load and aerodynamics: Extra weight, roof racks, or aftermarket accessories increase aerodynamic drag and reduce mpg, especially at highway speeds.
- Fuel quality and octane: The LS400 was designed for premium unleaded fuel; using the recommended fuel and maintaining a clean fuel system supports better efficiency.
Owners often report real-world combined mileage in the range of roughly 18–22 mpg, depending on city vs. highway driving mix and how well the vehicle is maintained.
Notes on accuracy and context
Because the LS400 was produced over multiple years with incremental changes and varied by market, exact numbers can differ. If you’re evaluating a specific car, it’s best to check the EPA ratings for that model year and consider a diagnostic check to estimate current fuel economy based on engine health and condition.
Summary
The LS400’s fuel economy reflects its era and configuration: typical combined mpg sits around 20 miles per gallon, with city ratings generally in the high teens and highway efficiency in the mid- to high-20s. Real-world results depend on how the car is driven and maintained, so expect some variation from year to year and from owner to owner.
For anyone buying or maintaining an LS400 today, tracking fuel economy over time and keeping up with routine maintenance are the best ways to preserve efficiency and get a realistic sense of ongoing costs.
Is the Lexus LS fuel efficient?
The base LS500 receives EPA fuel economy ratings of 18 mpg city and 29 mpg highway and the AWD version checks in at 17 and 27 mpg, respectively.
How big is the LS400 full tank range?
380.8/537.6 mi. 22.4 gal.
How many MPG does the LS400 get?
16/23 MPG
Fuel & MPG
| Cost to Drive | $305/mo |
|---|---|
| Fuel type | Regular unleaded |
| EPA city/highway MPG | 16/23 MPG |
Which car gets 70 MPG?
Several hybrid and diesel cars can achieve around 70 mpg, though it's often an official rating and can vary in real-world driving. Examples include the Vauxhall Corsa with a 1.5-litre turbo diesel engine, which can get up to 70.6 mpg, and various hybrid models, including some versions of the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid and Toyota Prius, which can reach this level under ideal conditions.
Examples of cars with around 70 mpg
- Vauxhall Corsa (1.5-litre turbo diesel): Can achieve up to 70.6 mpg, making it one of the most fuel-efficient diesel cars available.
- Hyundai Elantra Hybrid: Early models were advertised with a claimed 70 mpg combined fuel economy.
- Toyota Prius: Various models can get close to 70 mpg, especially older non-plug-in hybrids which are cheaper on the used market. Plug-in hybrid versions can also run on electric power for short distances.
- Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid: Can achieve around 59 mpg combined.
Important considerations
- Official vs. real-world MPG: The 70 mpg figure is often an official rating that is achieved under specific testing conditions, and your real-world mileage may be lower or higher depending on your driving habits, the vehicle's condition, and road conditions.
- Hybrid vs. diesel: Both hybrid and diesel cars can achieve high MPG, but hybrids have the added benefit of electric-only driving for short distances, while some diesels can have higher upfront costs but offer impressive fuel economy on long-distance journeys.
- Age and model: Some of the models with the highest MPG ratings are older, so be sure to research specific model years when shopping.
- Type of driving: While hybrids and diesels can be very efficient, their fuel economy can vary significantly depending on whether you are driving in the city or on the highway.
