IS300 2004 MPG?
In the U.S. market, the 2004 IS300 typically delivers about 20–21 mpg in city driving and around 27–28 mpg on the highway, with some variation based on transmission and driving conditions.
EPA figures and drivetrain differences
The following figures summarize common EPA estimates for the American market model year 2004 IS300, highlighting two common transmission configurations.
- Automatic transmission: about 19–21 mpg city and 26–28 mpg highway.
- Manual transmission: about 18–20 mpg city and 26–29 mpg highway.
These ranges serve as benchmarks for prospective buyers or current owners. Real-world mileage often diverges due to how and where you drive, as well as vehicle condition.
What affects your mileage?
Several practical factors influence the IS300’s fuel economy. Understanding them can help you estimate real-world performance more accurately.
- Driving style and conditions: Frequent hard acceleration, stop-and-go city traffic, and heavy loads reduce mpg; steady highway cruising tends to improve it.
- Vehicle maintenance: Regular service, clean air filters, proper oil changes, and functioning sensors help maintain efficiency.
- Tire condition and inflation: Underinflated or worn tires increase rolling resistance and lower mpg.
- Climate and accessories: Cold weather, extensive use of climate control, and roof racks or heavy loads can lower mpg.
Maintaining proper tire pressure, following a regular maintenance schedule, and adopting smoother driving habits can help you approach the EPA figures.
Summary
The 2004 IS300 offers a balanced blend of performance and efficiency, with typical EPA estimates leaning toward the low-20s in urban driving and the upper-20s on highways. Actual mileage varies by transmission, driving style, and vehicle condition. For a precise projection on a specific car, consult the EPA ratings for that model year or track your own fuel economy over time.
Is the 2004 IS300 reliable?
Good, reliable high performance in a small package
I've owned many expensive high performance cars, but my 2004 Lexus SportCross IS300 is a keeper. It feels like a perfect car for autocrossing or just going for groceries. It handles very nice and I love the high reliability factor.
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.
IS 300 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…
