Is Lexus IS250 good on fuel?
The Lexus IS250 isn't a standout for fuel economy among today’s luxury sedans; the IS250 typically returns in the low- to mid-20s mpg overall.
The exact figure depends on model year, drivetrain, maintenance, tires, and driving style, but common estimates place roughly 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway for many US-market IS250s, with the combined figure in the low 20s to mid-20s. This article breaks down the numbers, what drives them, and how to optimize efficiency.
EPA ratings and what they mean
EPA ratings reflect standardized testing and may not match real-world driving. For the IS250, results vary by year and configuration and are influenced by drivetrain and equipment.
Common configurations
Here are typical EPA ranges for common US-market IS250 versions with an automatic transmission:
- Rear-wheel drive (RWD), 6-speed automatic: about 21 mpg city / 28 mpg highway / 24 mpg combined
- All-wheel drive (AWD), 6-speed automatic: about 19–21 mpg city / 26–28 mpg highway / 22–23 mpg combined
Note that real-world numbers can be higher or lower depending on driving conditions, fuel quality, and maintenance.
Real-world performance and factors
Owners generally report highway fuel economy that can exceed EPA estimates with light, steady cruising, while city driving often lands in the low- to mid-20s. Weight, engine load, and tire rolling resistance have a sizable impact on mpg. Aggressive driving, cold weather, and frequent stops can shave several miles per gallon off the average.
What influences the IS250’s efficiency
Several factors determine real-world mpg for the IS250. The following list highlights the main ones:
- Drivetrain: RWD tends to be more efficient than AWD, all else equal
- Tire condition and pressure: under-inflated or high-rolling-resistance tires reduce mpg
- Maintenance: clean air filters, fresh spark plugs, and correct engine maintenance help sustain efficiency
- Vehicle weight and wear: older interiors and accessories can increase drag and weight
- Driving style: smooth acceleration and steady speeds improve mpg
In practice, a well-maintained IS250 driven with a light touch often achieves mpg in the mid-20s to low-30s on long highway trips, while urban driving will usually hover in the low-20s or high-teens range depending on traffic and climate.
Tips to maximize fuel economy in the IS250
Simple, proactive steps can help you push the most miles from a tank, especially if your goal is to extend range or reduce trips to the pump:
- Keep tires properly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure
- Schedule regular maintenance: oil changes, air-filter replacement, and spark plug checks
- Drive smoothly: avoid rapid acceleration and heavy braking; anticipate traffic to coast
- Reduce weight and aerodynamic drag: remove roof racks when not in use, minimize unneeded cargo
- Use recommended fuel grade and avoid fuel adulterants that can affect engine efficiency
With careful driving and proper maintenance, you can extract the best possible fuel economy from an IS250, though it won’t rival modern compact sedans with advanced engines and hybrid systems.
How the IS250 compares to peers from its era
Compared with contemporaries such as the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Infiniti G37, the IS250’s mpg figures are broadly similar, though the IS250’s V6 tends to drink more in city driving. For buyers prioritizing efficiency, many peers offered smaller-displacement engines or turbocharged options that can yield better highway efficiency; however, quality, ride comfort, and luxury appeal remain differentiators.
Additionally, the IS line shifted after the third-generation facelift, with later models focusing on IS 300 (inline-six) and other variants. If fuel economy is a primary concern, newer Lexus models with turbocharged four-cylinders or hybrid tech generally perform better.
Summary
The Lexus IS250 offers a balanced package of luxury and performance for its era, with respectable highway mileage but modest city efficiency. For drivers who value highway comfort and refined V6 power, it remains reasonable; for those chasing top-tier fuel economy, modern turbocharged four-cylinders or hybrid options may be a better fit. When evaluating a used IS250, consider maintenance history, tire condition, and driving style, as these factors strongly influence real-world fuel economy.
