Is the Lexus IS300 good on gas?
The short answer is that the IS300 is not celebrated for exceptional fuel economy. Across its generations and markets, MPG varies widely: the original 3.0-liter inline-six in the early 2000s delivered modest efficiency for its class, while modern IS300 variants (where offered) can post better highway numbers thanks to turbocharged four-cylinders. Real-world mileage depends on drivetrain, year, and driving style.
This article surveys how fuel economy has evolved for the IS300, compares historical and current expectations, and offers tips for getting the most from your IS300 in terms of mileage. It also notes market differences, since the IS300 badge has appeared in different forms in different regions.
Historical fuel economy: the IS300 lineage and what it meant for efficiency
To understand the current landscape, it helps to map the IS300’s powertrains and EPA estimates from its original era through later models. The naming and drivetrain shifted over time, affecting economy figures in meaningful ways.
- First-generation IS300 (2001–2005) in the United States used a 3.0L inline-six. EPA estimates typically placed city mpg in the low 20s and highway mpg in the high 20s, with combined mileage often in the low to mid-20s, depending on transmission and driving conditions.
- In subsequent years, the US market moved away from the IS300 badge in favor of the IS250 and IS350, which used smaller or larger V6 engines. These models delivered roughly the low-20s combined for the V6 versions, with variations by drivetrain and year. The IS300 badge largely disappeared from the US lineup for a period.
- In some international markets, later IS300 variants appeared with turbocharged four-cylinders or hybrid setups. Where available, turbo models generally offered better highway efficiency but varied by drivetrain (rear-wheel drive vs all-wheel drive) and year.
Overall, the early IS300 offered respectable but not standout efficiency for a performance-oriented luxury sedan of its era, and later market shifts meant fuel economy figures could diverge significantly by region and powertrain.
The current landscape: what to expect if you’re shopping for an IS300 today
For buyers seeing modern IS variants in markets where the IS300 name persists, expectations shift toward turbocharged efficiency and improved highway mileage, with some caveats about AWD and overall vehicle weight.
- Recent IS300 variants (where offered) with a 2.0L turbocharged engine typically deliver city mpg in the low 20s and highway mpg in the low-to-mid 30s, with combined mpg generally in the mid-20s to high-20s depending on drivetrain and year.
- All-wheel-drive configurations tend to reduce mpg slightly versus rear-wheel-drive due to drivetrain losses, though the difference is often modest in real-world driving.
- Compared with the V6-equipped IS models (IS350), IS300 variants usually show better highway economy, but the trade-off is that some buyers prioritize performance over peak efficiency.
In practice, the IS300’s economy is a mixed bag that reflects the balance Lexus aims for between performance, luxury, and efficiency. Always check the EPA ratings for the exact year and drivetrain you're considering, and read recent owner data for real-world results.
Real-world factors that influence fuel economy
Several factors shape the mileage you’ll actually see in day-to-day driving. Awareness of these can help you maximize efficiency.
- Driving style: Smooth acceleration and gentle braking improve mpg, while abrupt starts and aggressive throttle use do the opposite.
- Maintenance: Regular oil changes, clean air filters, and timely spark plug replacement help the engine run efficiently.
- Tire condition and pressure: Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance and can boost mpg; underinflation hurts fuel economy.
- Drivetrain choice: AWD adds weight and mechanical losses, which can lower mpg compared with RWD variants.
- Environmental conditions: City traffic, heavy stop-and-go patterns, high speeds, and extreme temperatures all impact real-world mpg.
With attentive maintenance and mindful driving, IS300 owners can approach the typical ranges discussed for their specific model year and drivetrain.
Bottom line: should you buy an IS300 if gas mileage matters?
If maximizing fuel economy is the primary criterion, you’ll want to compare the IS300 to other IS variants or to competitors in the luxury-sedan space. The IS300 remains attractive for its balance of performance and refinement, but its mpg figures are generally not the standout feature in its class. For the best economy, consider turbo-four or hybrid options in markets where they’re available, or explore rivals known for efficiency in a similar price range.
Summary
The Lexus IS300’s fuel economy profile reflects its era, market, and powertrains. Early IS300s offered modest efficiency by today’s standards, while newer, turbocharged variants in certain markets can deliver better highway economy at the cost of city mileage and overall complexity. Real-world mpg depends on multiple factors, including drivetrain, maintenance, and driving habits. If efficiency is a top priority, verify the exact EPA rating for your year and drivetrain, and consider other IS options or rival models that emphasize fuel economy more strongly.
How much does it cost to fill up a Lexus IS 300?
As you can see we spent $96.11 to fill up 56.5 L of fuel. At a fuel cost of $1699. Per liter and that's for 91 octane. Fuel. We spent $96.11 to fill up 56.5 L of fuel at a fuel cost of $1699.
IS300 good on gas?
During the winter, I seem to hover right around 20mpg combined (in normal mode). In the summer, closer to 25, but on road trips, I can break 30mpg pretty easily in Eco mode. It's all in how you drive. For BEST results, use non-ethanol gas, and add a can of Royal Purple Octane Booster at each full-up…
Does Lexus IS 300 need premium gas?
Yes, the Lexus IS 300 requires premium 91-octane unleaded gas. The engine is designed to run on premium fuel to prevent engine knocking and to maintain performance, so using a lower grade may cause performance issues.
- Requirement: The IS 300 is designed for premium 91-octane gasoline.
- Reason: The engine is factory-tuned for this higher-octane fuel to prevent pre-detonation, knocking, and long-term engine damage.
- Consequences of using lower-octane fuel: Using regular 87-octane gas can lead to a reduction in performance and fuel efficiency. While modern engines have knock sensors that adjust timing to prevent damage, using a lower grade regularly can still lead to long-term wear.
- If you accidentally use lower-octane gas: Fill up with the recommended 91-octane fuel the next time you purchase gas and monitor your engine for any issues.
IS Lexus IS 300 good on gas?
Fuel economy is not the IS 300's strong suit, with the all-wheel-drive version only EPA-estimated to return 19 miles per gallon in the city, 26 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined. Over the course of a few days, I'm averaging just over 21 mpg.
