How many miles per gallon does the LC 500 get?
The Lexus LC 500 typically achieves about 16 miles per gallon in city driving, around 26 mpg on the highway, and roughly 19 mpg when averaged across mixed driving, according to EPA estimates for recent model years.
These figures come from U.S. EPA testing and can vary by year, trim, drivetrain, tire choice, and driving style. The LC 500 is a high-performance grand tourer, so its mpg is generally lower than that of more economy-focused vehicles, especially under spirited driving.
What the EPA numbers mean for the LC 500
Below are the official EPA estimates commonly cited for the LC 500 in recent model years in the United States.
- EPA ratings (LC 500, United States): 16 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / 19 mpg combined.
These numbers reflect standard testing conditions and provide a baseline for comparing fuel economy with other cars. Real-world mileage can be higher or lower depending on how you drive and where you drive.
Factors that influence your actual mileage
Several variables can push the LC 500’s mileage away from the EPA figures, including throttle response, driving mode, and load. The LC 500 uses a large V8 and a performance-oriented setup, so aggressive acceleration, high-speed driving, and frequent full-throttle bursts typically reduce mpg. Conversely, steady highway cruising in a higher gear with a light right foot can improve efficiency somewhat.
Tips to maximize efficiency on a performance coupe
If you’re looking to squeeze more efficiency from the LC 500 on everyday trips, consider these practices:
- Keep tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure to reduce rolling resistance.
- Drive smoothly: gradual acceleration and anticipation of stops can help improve mpg.
- Use cruise control on long highway stretches when appropriate to maintain steady speed.
- Minimize extra weight and remove roof racks when not in use to reduce aerodynamic drag.
- Avoid extended idling and plan trips to minimize stop-and-go driving.
While these tips can help, it’s important to remember that the LC 500’s core appeal is performance, not maximum fuel efficiency.
Real-world expectations
In day-to-day driving, owners often see mpg in the high teens to low twenties, with highway trips tending to push figures toward the higher end of that range. Your mileage will vary based on traffic, terrain, climate control use, and how aggressively you drive.
Summary
The LC 500’s EPA-estimated fuel economy is about 16 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 19 mpg combined for recent model years. Real-world results depend heavily on driving style and conditions, and the car’s performance orientation means mpg is typically lower than that of many non-performance sedans or coupes. For higher efficiency, Lexus offers the LC 500h hybrid variant, which delivers markedly better mileage but a different driving character. Always check the window sticker for the exact numbers on the specific model year you’re considering.
