Is Lexus GS fuel efficient?
Not especially by today's luxury-sedan standards. A used GS 350 with the 3.5-liter V6 typically returns around 23 mpg combined, while the older GS 450h hybrid can surpass that figure in mixed driving. Lexus discontinued the GS after the 2020 model year, so prospective buyers now rely on used examples or compare to newer Lexus hybrids for better efficiency.
Fuel economy by Lexus GS variant
The GS lineup includes gasoline V6, high-performance V8, and hybrid options, each with its own efficiency profile across production years. The following snapshot highlights how the main variants typically behaved at the pump.
- Lexus GS 350 (3.5L V6; non-hybrid): roughly 20 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, about 23 mpg combined. This was the standard efficiency figure for most 2013–2020 GS 350 models with either rear- or all-wheel drive.
- Lexus GS F (5.0L V8; performance variant): around 16 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, about 19 mpg combined. Power and speed came at a clear fuel-cost, especially in city conditions.
- Lexus GS 450h (hybrid; V6 plus electric motors): about 29 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, roughly 31 mpg combined in early-to-mid-2010s models. This variant offered the best efficiency within the GS line.
In short, among GS variants, the hybrid GS 450h delivered the strongest efficiency, while the V8-powered GS F was the least efficient. The GS 350 sat in the middle for typical luxury-sedan fuel economy.
Where the Lexus GS stands today and what to consider for efficiency
Lexus discontinued the GS after the 2020 model year, so there are no new GS sedans to buy. For buyers prioritizing fuel economy, the brand’s current lineup offers several hybrids that generally deliver stronger numbers, along with the ES and RX hybrids. Here are notable alternatives to pursue within Lexus for efficiency:
- ES Hybrid — a dedicated hybrid sedan known for strong efficiency in mixed driving.
- NX Hybrid — a compact SUV offering improved fuel economy for urban and highway use.
- LS Hybrid — a full-size luxury sedan with a focus on efficiency for a larger vehicle.
- RX Hybrid — a mid-size SUV that balances comfort with better-than-average efficiency for its class.
For precise numbers for a specific year and configuration, consult the EPA’s Fuel Economy Guide (fueleconomy.gov) or the vehicle’s window sticker. Real-world mpg typically runs a bit lower than EPA estimates, especially with city driving, aggressive acceleration, or poor tire maintenance.
In summary, if fuel efficiency is a top priority, consider current Lexus hybrids or other brands’ hybrid options rather than a used GS, and use EPA ratings to compare exact configurations.
Summary
The Lexus GS offered a spectrum of efficiency across its variants: the GS 450h hybrid was the most fuel-efficient within the GS lineup, the GS 350 offered solid but not standout efficiency for a V6 luxury sedan, and the GS F prioritized performance over economy. With the GS discontinued after 2020, buyers now look to newer Lexus hybrids (such as ES Hybrid, NX Hybrid, and RX Hybrid) for better real-world efficiency. When shopping for a used GS, verify the exact model year and drivetrain and check the EPA ratings for the precise figures.
