Is the Lexus IS 350 good on gas?
The Lexus IS 350 is reasonably efficient for a luxury V6 sedan, with typical EPA estimates around 20–21 mpg in the city and 28–29 mpg on the highway for rear‑wheel-drive models, and modestly lower figures for all-wheel-drive variants.
When evaluating whether the IS 350 is good on gas, it helps to look at official fuel-economy ratings across recent model years, how drivetrain choice affects efficiency, and how real-world driving often compares to the numbers. The IS 350 uses a 3.5-liter V6 with an 8-speed automatic transmission, and the main distinction for mpg is whether the car is RWD or AWD.
Fuel economy basics for the IS 350
EPA estimates vary by model year and drivetrain. The following ranges describe typical numbers for recent IS 350 models with the 3.5-liter V6 and an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Drivetrain options and mpg impact
In the US market, the IS 350 is offered with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, both using the same V6 engine. The AWD version generally records slightly lower city mpg due to drivetrain losses, while highway mpg remains competitive. There is no hybrid IS 350 in the current US lineup, so the mpg advantage seen in some rivals’ hybrid versions isn’t available here.
- IS 350 RWD: approximately 20–21 mpg city, 28–29 mpg highway, ~23–25 mpg combined.
- IS 350 AWD: approximately 19–20 mpg city, 28–29 mpg highway, ~23 mpg combined.
Note: Actual figures depend on tires, trim level (F SPORT can affect aerodynamics), and driving conditions. Real-world mileage often trails the EPA estimates, especially in city driving with heavy traffic.
Real-world driving: what to expect
In everyday use, many drivers report mpg in the low 20s during city-heavy commuting and high 20s to low 30s on long highway trips, with variations based on model year, drivetrain, and tire choice. Highway efficiency tends to dominate the combined figure, while aggressive driving, high speeds, and frequent stops reduce overall mpg.
Factors that affect IS 350 fuel economy
Fuel economy isn’t fixed; it changes with setup, use, and environment. Here are the main factors that influence how efficiently the IS 350 will perform.
- Drivetrain configuration (RWD vs AWD)
- Driving style (aggressive acceleration vs smooth, steady pace)
- Terrain and traffic conditions (city congestion vs open highway)
- Tire type, size, and inflation pressures
- Vehicle load and accessories (roof racks, extra weight)
- Maintenance status (air filter, spark plugs, oil level)
- Climate and ambient temperature (engine warm-up and cabin heating/cooling)
Understanding these factors helps set realistic expectations and reveals where improvements can be made.
Tips to maximize fuel economy in the IS 350
Smart driving habits and routine maintenance can yield measurable gains without compromising safety or comfort.
- Drive at steady speeds and anticipate traffic to avoid unnecessary braking and rapid acceleration.
- Use Eco or Normal mode (if equipped) to optimize throttle response and air conditioning usage.
- Maintain proper tire pressure and replace worn tires; rotate tires regularly to improve efficiency and wear.
- Keep weight to a minimum; remove unnecessary cargo and roof racks when not in use.
- Schedule regular maintenance (air filter, spark plugs, oil changes) to keep the engine running efficiently.
- Plan trips to minimize idling and combine errands to reduce overall mileage.
- Moderate climate-control use; in cooler months, precondition the cabin while parked if possible.
While you can improve efficiency, it’s important to balance mpg goals with safety and performance expectations, especially in a luxury sedan designed for comfort and dynamic driving.
Summary
The Lexus IS 350 offers respectable fuel economy for a non-hybrid, luxury V6 sedan. Expect EPA estimates in the low 20s for city driving and high 20s to low 30s on highways, with AWD typically showing slightly lower city mileage. Real-world results depend on driving style, terrain, and maintenance. By following practical tips and keeping maintenance up to date, drivers can maximize efficiency without sacrificing the IS 350’s comfort and performance.
