What is the mileage on a Lexus NX 350h hybrid?
The Lexus NX 350h hybrid typically achieves about 39 mpg combined with front-wheel drive and roughly 37–38 mpg with all-wheel drive, depending on year and configuration. Exact figures come from EPA estimates and can vary with driving conditions and settings.
How mileage is measured for the NX 350h
Fuel economy for hybrids is measured by the EPA using standardized tests that simulate city and highway driving. For the NX 350h, those tests reflect the efficiency of the 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain paired with Lexus’ electric motor assist and CVT. Drivetrain and model year can influence the numbers.
EPA estimates vary by drivetrain and year. Here are the general numbers reported for recent NX 350h models:
- NX 350h with front-wheel drive (FWD): approximately 39 mpg combined.
- NX 350h with all-wheel drive (AWD): approximately 37–38 mpg combined.
These figures are official EPA estimates. Real-world mileage varies with conditions such as traffic, terrain, climate control use, and cargo load.
Real-world mileage and influencing factors
In everyday driving, the NX 350h often delivers mileage in the upper 30s mpg, with city-focused use tending to yield the best numbers due to greater hybrid assist. Highway-only cruising usually lowers the efficiency slightly relative to city driving, though modern hybrids still offer competitive highway economy.
What affects efficiency?
Several factors can boost or reduce mpg in a hybrid SUV like the NX 350h:
- Driving style: smooth acceleration and braking helps maximize hybrid energy recovery.
- Traffic conditions: more stop-and-go reduces average mpg; steady cruising helps.
- Climate control: using A/C or heating can lower efficiency; preconditioning the cabin when the car is plugged in helps.
- Terrain: hilly routes increase energy use.
- Tire pressure and maintenance: underinflated tires reduce efficiency.
- Load: heavier cargo reduces mpg.
To maximize efficiency, drivers can plan trips to minimize rapid acceleration, maintain proper tire inflation, and use eco-focused modes when appropriate.
Tips to maximize NX 350h mileage
Practical steps can help you approach the EPA numbers on a daily basis. Here are common strategies used by hybrid owners:
- Drive smoothly: gentle acceleration and braking preserves battery energy and reduces engine work.
- Use Eco/EV modes wisely: rely on electric assist in city driving and use EV mode when appropriate at low speeds.
- Maintain your vehicle: keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure and schedule regular maintenance.
- Lighten the load: remove unnecessary weight from the vehicle.
- Limit climate control use: moderate use of climate control and preconditioning can help when starting from a cold state.
Applying these practices can help you maximize real-world mileage, though individual results will vary.
Summary
The Lexus NX 350h offers a competitive hybrid efficiency profile, with EPA estimates around 39 mpg combined for FWD models and roughly 37–38 mpg for AWD variants in recent years. Real-world mileage typically falls in the upper 30s, influenced by driving conditions and vehicle load. Always check the exact EPA rating for your specific model year and drivetrain to get precise figures.
