Is Lexus GS 350 fuel efficient?
The Lexus GS 350 is not considered highly fuel-efficient by modern mid-size-luxury standards. In typical mixed driving, expect to see fuel economy in the low-to-mid 20s miles per gallon, with highway figures higher than city figures. Availability in new-car form ended after the 2020 model year, so current shoppers will mostly encounter used examples.
What affects its fuel economy
Fuel efficiency for the GS 350 depends on year, drivetrain, maintenance, and driving style. The model pairs a 3.5-liter V6 with an automatic transmission, and buyers could choose rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). Over its production run, refinements improved efficiency only modestly, reflecting the car’s weight and power output rather than hybrid-style economy.
Engine and transmission basics
All GS 350 variants use a 3.5-liter V6 delivering roughly 311 horsepower, paired with an automatic transmission. The exact transmission generation changed during the model run, and the drivetrain choice (RWD vs AWD) also influences fuel economy, with AWD typically yielding lower efficiency.
Drivetrain and model-year variation
Rear-wheel-drive models generally achieve better fuel economy than their all-wheel-drive counterparts. Throughout the years, improvements in gearing and electronic controls offered incremental gains, but the GS 350 remains heavier and less fuel-efficient than many four-cylinder rivals or hybrid options.
Typical efficiency figures for most GS 350 models span a narrow range, reflecting the car’s size and powertrain chemistry:
- Rear-wheel drive (RWD): City around 19–23 mpg; Highway around 26–28 mpg; Combined typically 22–24 mpg.
- All-wheel drive (AWD): City around 18–22 mpg; Highway around 25–27 mpg; Combined typically 21–23 mpg.
These ranges are representative of the GS 350 from 2013–2020. Actual numbers vary by year, tire size, maintenance, and individual driving conditions.
Real-world factors and comparisons
In day-to-day use, the GS 350’s efficiency is heavily influenced by traffic, driving style, and how aggressively the engine is used. On long highway trips, it can approach its higher-end highway economy, while city commuting with frequent stops lowers the figure. When compared with rivals, some luxury sedans offer better efficiency—especially models with turbocharged four-cylinders or hybrid powertrains—but the GS 350 trades efficiency for strong mid-size-Luxury performance. It’s worth noting that Lexus ended GS production after the 2020 model year, so buyers today are looking at used examples or alternative Lexus models such as the ES 300h for higher efficiency.
Maximizing fuel economy in the GS 350
If you own or are shopping for a GS 350 and want to squeeze out more efficiency, consider the following practices. Each tip is aimed at reducing fuel consumption without sacrificing essential performance or comfort.
- Keep tires inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressure; underinflated tires waste fuel and reduce handling stability.
- Perform regular maintenance: air filters, spark plugs, and timely oil changes help maintain optimal engine efficiency.
- Drive smoothly: accelerate gradually, anticipate stops, and use cruise control on longer highway stretches when appropriate.
- Minimize weight and aerodynamic drag: remove unnecessary roof racks and heavy cargo when not in use.
- Use available efficiency modes (Eco/Normal) if equipped; these can tune throttle response and transmission shifting for better economy.
Even with these practices, the GS 350’s powertrain and curb weight limit dramatic gains compared with hybrids or smaller turbo-four sedans.
Alternative options for higher efficiency
Because the GS line was discontinued after the 2020 model year, prospective buyers seeking better efficiency within Lexus generally turn to other models. Notable options include:
- Lexus ES 300h (hybrid) – a mid-size sedan that prioritizes fuel economy while offering luxury comfort and a smooth ride.
- Lexus IS with efficient four-cylinder options or hybrid variants where available in some markets.
- Lexus NX 350h or UX 250h – compact crossovers with strong hybrid efficiency for daily driving.
In practice, these alternatives provide better real-world fuel economy while still delivering Lexus-quality interiors and ride comfort.
Summary
The Lexus GS 350 delivers strong performance and a premium feel, but it is not a standout for fuel efficiency among contemporary mid-size luxury sedans. Typical real-world fuel economy sits in the low-to-mid 20s mpg in mixed driving, with higher highway numbers and lower city figures, and AWD variants are slightly less efficient. The GS line ended after the 2020 model year, so shoppers interested in efficiency should consider hybrid or smaller-turbo options within Lexus’ current lineup or similar rivals. For those prioritizing efficiency, the ES 300h or other Lexus hybrids offer more economical choices without sacrificing luxury:**
