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What is the fuel mileage of ES 300h?

In general, the Lexus ES 300h delivers about 40 miles per gallon (mpg) in combined driving, with later model years achieving around 44 mpg depending on conditions.


How efficient is the ES 300h in practice?


The ES 300h is Lexus’s hybrid variant of the ES luxury sedan. It pairs a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine with an electric motor and battery, sending power through a CVT. Official fuel economy depends on model year, trim, and wheel/tire options, and real-world results can vary with driving style and conditions.


Hybrid powertrain and efficiency potential


The hybrid system is designed to maximize efficiency through electric assist and regenerative braking. In city driving, the vehicle can operate on electric power for short periods, while sustained highway cruising blends gas and electric output for steady efficiency. Proper maintenance, light loads, and using recommended tires can help maximize mpg.


EPA fuel economy by model year


Before listing the typical EPA ranges, note that exact numbers are year-specific and can vary with equipment such as wheel size and tires. Here is a concise snapshot by generation to guide expectations:



  • 2013–2018: EPA-estimated about 40 mpg combined (roughly 41 mpg city / 39 mpg highway).

  • 2019–2024: EPA-estimated about 44 mpg combined (roughly in the mid-40s for city/highway in typical tests; year-to-year differences exist).


In real-world driving, many ES 300h owners report mpg close to the EPA combined figure, with city driving typically yielding higher efficiency than highway driving due to the hybrid system’s electric operation at lower speeds.


Real-world driving and optimization tips


Actual mileage varies, but several factors influence real-world results. Here are the main drivers and how to optimize:



  • Driving style: Smooth acceleration, steady speeds, and minimal rapid braking improve mpg.

  • Trip characteristics: Short trips prevent the engine from reaching optimal temperature, reducing efficiency.

  • Climate control: Use of A/C in hot weather or heated features in cold weather can affect mpg.

  • Tire inflation and rolling resistance: Using low-rolling-resistance tires and keeping tires inflated to recommended pressures helps.

  • Vehicle load: Extra weight and roof racks add drag and reduce efficiency.


With mindful driving and proper maintenance, you can approach or exceed the EPA estimates in typical conditions.


Summary


The ES 300h’s fuel economy sits around 40 mpg combined for older models and improves to about 44 mpg combined in newer iterations. Real-world results depend on driving conditions, maintenance, and options, but the hybrid system generally offers strong city efficiency and solid highway performance for a mid-size luxury sedan.


Notes for shoppers


For the exact numbers on a specific model year and trim, consult the EPA’s fueleconomy.gov database and Lexus’ official specifications. Wheels, tires, and optional equipment can cause small variations from the cited ranges.

How long does a hybrid battery last in a Lexus IS 300h?


Average Life Span of a Lexus Battery
On average, a lead-acid Lexus car battery lasts about three to five years, while the nickel–metal hydride batteries used in Lexus hybrids last an average of eight to 10 years or 100,000 to 150,000 miles.



Is Lexus ES basically a Camry?


No, the Lexus ES is not a Camry, but they share the same platform and some mechanical components because Lexus is the luxury division of Toyota. The ES is a more premium version, featuring a more luxurious interior, better materials, a quieter ride, and a more powerful standard engine.
 

  • Platform and powertrain: The ES and Camry have historically shared the same platform, and many modern versions use a similar platform and powertrains. For example, the Lexus ES 350 and many Toyota Camry models use a similar 3.5L V6 engine. 
  • Luxury and features: The ES is designed to be a luxury sedan, with a more premium and quiet interior, higher-quality materials, and a softer ride compared to the sportier or more mainstream focus of the Camry. 
  • Positioning: The Camry is a mass-market sedan, while the ES is a luxury vehicle. This means the ES comes standard with more luxury features and has a higher price point to reflect its premium positioning. 



What are common 300h problems?


Poor engine idling/misfiring
If you are having any problems with the engine misfiring and poor engine idling, this will be caused by a problem with either the throttle body, or MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor. These can become clogged up with carbon, resulting in the above problems.



How many miles per gallon does the ES 300h get?


The Lexus ES300h's real-world MPG varies by year and driving conditions, but recent models typically achieve around 43-44 MPG combined. The EPA-estimated combined rating for the 2025 model is 44 MPG, with 43 MPG in the city and 44 MPG on the highway. Real-world figures reported by drivers are often in the range of 40-47 MPG, depending on factors like city versus highway driving and weather, says Reddit users. 

Model Year Combined MPG
2025 44 MPG (city: 43, highway: 44)
2024 44 MPG (city: 43, highway: 44)
2023 44 MPG (city: 43, highway: 44)
2022 44 MPG (city: 43, highway: 44)
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Factors that can affect MPG:
  • Driving conditions: City driving, with its frequent stops and starts, can result in lower MPG compared to highway driving, though the ES300h's hybrid system is efficient in both scenarios. 
  • Weather: Colder temperatures can negatively impact fuel economy. 
  • Driving habits: Aggressive acceleration and heavy use of air conditioning can lower your MPG. 
  • Vehicle age: Older models may have slightly different fuel economy ratings. For example, the 2013 model is rated at 40 MPG combined. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.