The 2019 Lexus IS 300 2.0L gets 24 MPG combined, placing it in the middle of the luxury sport sedan segment. Many buyers accept this as a trade-off for the sharp styling, meticulously crafted interior, and reliable reputation of the brand. It doesn’t break any efficiency records, but for drivers who prioritize a refined driving experience over saving money on gas, this IS variant is appealing.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2019 IS 300 2.0L are 21 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects typical stop-and-go driving, where the turbocharged 4-cylinder engine’s need to spool up the turbocharger at lower RPMs can impact fuel consumption. The 30 MPG highway rating is respectable, indicating the engine’s efficiency when cruising at a steady speed. The 8-speed automatic transmission (S8) also plays a role, keeping the engine in its optimal rev range for fuel efficiency at higher speeds. Lexus engineers targeted a balance between responsiveness and efficiency. The IS 300 2.0L is designed to deliver both, even if it isn’t a class leader in either category.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Lexus IS 300 2.0L at $2,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city versus highway), and the prevailing fuel prices in your area. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips in cold weather where the engine spends more time in warm-up mode, and using higher-octane fuel than recommended can all increase your fuel expenses beyond this EPA estimate.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides standardized testing figures, but real-world MPG often differs. Drivers who frequently accelerate hard or spend a lot of time in city traffic are likely to see numbers closer to the 21 MPG city figure, or even slightly lower. Those who primarily drive on the highway and maintain a consistent speed can realistically expect to achieve or even exceed the 30 MPG highway rating. The IS 300 isn’t a car that encourages hypermiling; its appeal lies in its engaging driving dynamics. But mindful driving habits can certainly help bridge the gap between EPA estimates and real-world fuel economy. Checking out IS MPG across all years can also help give you a better idea what to expect from pre-owned models.

How it compares

The 2019 Lexus IS 300 2.0L competes with other luxury sport sedans like the BMW 330i (29 MPG combined), the Mercedes-Benz C 300 (26 MPG combined), and the Audi A4 (27 MPG combined). The IS 300 2.0L trails slightly behind some competitors in terms of pure MPG, but it often matches or surpasses them in terms of long-term reliability, an important consideration for many Lexus buyers. For drivers also prioritizing performance, the IS 350 AWD offers more power, but sees a drop to 22 MPG combined. For consumers looking at all Lexus fuel economy data, the slight MPG deficit of the IS 300 2.0L is a trade-off deemed worthwhile for the Lexus ownership experience, characterized by superior build quality, a comfortable ride, and strong resale value.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintain a steady speed and avoid aggressive acceleration. The turbocharged 4-cylinder engine in the IS 300 2.0L is most efficient when it’s not constantly being asked to deliver bursts of power. Anticipate traffic conditions and brake smoothly to avoid unnecessary acceleration.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended PSI, which can be found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying extra weight in the trunk or backseat requires the engine to work harder, which increases fuel consumption. Remove any items that aren’t essential, especially heavy objects.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy, especially on long highway drives. Be mindful of using cruise control in hilly terrain, as it can sometimes cause the transmission to downshift unnecessarily, reducing efficiency.

Keep up with regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups.