What is the most fuel-efficient Lexus?
In brief, the Lexus with the best traditional fuel economy is the ES 300h hybrid, delivering about 44 mpg combined. If you’re counting plug-in efficiency, the NX 450h+ can reach much higher MPGe thanks to its electric range.
Fuel economy in the Lexus lineup depends on how you measure it. EPA ratings vary by model year and trim, and the brand offers conventional hybrids and plug-in hybrids with different capabilities. The following outlines the main efficiency leaders to help you compare.
Efficiency leaders in Lexus' lineup
Gasoline hybrids (no plug-in)
These models achieve strong fuel economy without needing to be charged and rely on a combination of gasoline engine and electric motor.
- Lexus ES 300h: roughly 44 mpg combined (model-year dependent).
- Lexus UX 250h: roughly 39 mpg combined.
Among non-plug-in options, the ES 300h typically leads in overall fuel economy, closely followed by the UX 250h in the compact-to-midsize segment.
Plug-in hybrids (PHEV) and MPGe
Plug-in hybrids deliver high efficiency by using electricity for a portion of trips; MPGe is the standard metric for these vehicles, and many drivers benefit from the electric range.
- Lexus NX 450h+: up to about 84 MPGe combined (electric + gasoline) with roughly 30–37 miles of electric range, depending on year and battery state.
When the battery is depleted, the NX 450h+ operates as a conventional hybrid, and its gasoline mpg is lower than in EV mode. Charging availability dramatically affects real-world efficiency for PHEUs.
Bottom line
For traditional mpg, the ES 300h is the most fuel-efficient Lexus model. For those who can charge regularly and want to maximize efficiency, the NX 450h+ offers high MPGe and an electric range that can cover many daily trips.
Summary
The Lexus model with the best fuel economy in non-plug-in form is the ES 300h hybrid, around 44 mpg combined. If you can charge regularly, consider the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid for higher MPGe and electric driving benefits. The UX 250h remains a strong, efficient option in the compact segment. Always check the latest EPA ratings for your specific year and trim.
What is the most fuel-efficient Lexus model?
The 2022 Lexus NX Plug-In Hybrid mpg ratings are the best among the current Lexus lineup, followed by the new Lexus ES Hybrid, which offers up to 44 highway mpg.
What Lexus gets 30 mpg?
Lexus RX 450h
Like all Lexus Hybrid models, the Lexus RX 450h boasts an efficient engine and high-torque electric motor that work in concert to deliver unmatched performance and earn up to 28 highway mpg and 30 combined mpg.
Which car gets 70 mpg?
Several hybrid and diesel cars can achieve around 70 mpg, though it's often an official rating and can vary in real-world driving. Examples include the Vauxhall Corsa with a 1.5-litre turbo diesel engine, which can get up to 70.6 mpg, and various hybrid models, including some versions of the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid and Toyota Prius, which can reach this level under ideal conditions.
Examples of cars with around 70 mpg
- Vauxhall Corsa (1.5-litre turbo diesel): Can achieve up to 70.6 mpg, making it one of the most fuel-efficient diesel cars available.
- Hyundai Elantra Hybrid: Early models were advertised with a claimed 70 mpg combined fuel economy.
- Toyota Prius: Various models can get close to 70 mpg, especially older non-plug-in hybrids which are cheaper on the used market. Plug-in hybrid versions can also run on electric power for short distances.
- Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid: Can achieve around 59 mpg combined.
Important considerations
- Official vs. real-world MPG: The 70 mpg figure is often an official rating that is achieved under specific testing conditions, and your real-world mileage may be lower or higher depending on your driving habits, the vehicle's condition, and road conditions.
- Hybrid vs. diesel: Both hybrid and diesel cars can achieve high MPG, but hybrids have the added benefit of electric-only driving for short distances, while some diesels can have higher upfront costs but offer impressive fuel economy on long-distance journeys.
- Age and model: Some of the models with the highest MPG ratings are older, so be sure to research specific model years when shopping.
- Type of driving: While hybrids and diesels can be very efficient, their fuel economy can vary significantly depending on whether you are driving in the city or on the highway.
Which Lexus does not require premium gas?
Several Lexus models do not require premium gas, including the Lexus ES 350, RX 350 (older models), NX 250 (some model years), and hybrid models like the UX 250h and NX 350h/450h+ (where premium is recommended but not required). To confirm the correct fuel for a specific vehicle, always check the owner's manual or the vehicle's fuel-door label.
Models that typically use regular unleaded (87 octane)
- Lexus CT 200h
- Lexus ES 300h and ES 350
- Lexus HS 250h
- Lexus NX 250 (some model years)
- Lexus NX 300h (older models)
- Lexus RX 350 (models from approximately 2012-2022)
- Lexus UX 250h (some model years)
Models where premium is recommended but not required
- Some hybrid models, such as the NX 350h and NX 450h+, can use regular gas, but using premium is recommended for optimal performance and to prevent potential engine knocking.
How to be certain
- Check the owner's manual: This is the most reliable source of information for your specific vehicle.
- Look at the fuel door: The required fuel type is often listed inside the fuel-filler door.
