The 2019 Lexus RC 300 AWD with the 3.5L V6 engine gets 21 MPG combined. If you choose this particular configuration of the RC, fuel economy is probably not your top priority. You’re likely choosing the reliable traction of all-wheel drive and the smooth power delivery that comes with six cylinders. This car makes a statement, and while it’s not extremely wasteful, it’s certainly not trying to be as efficient as a Prius.

City and highway performance

The RC 300 AWD’s EPA ratings are 18 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving, where the RC’s weight and the occasional urge to tap into the V6’s power affect gas mileage. The highway number is more respectable because the six-speed automatic transmission allows the engine to cruise at relatively low RPM. However, expect lower MPG if you accelerate aggressively or cruise at high speeds for long periods. If highway driving is your priority, the rear-wheel drive version offers slightly better MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Lexus RC 300 AWD at $2,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel price. This figure can be a benchmark, but your individual driving habits and local fuel prices will affect the amount you spend each year. Expect to exceed this estimate if you drive mostly in congested urban areas or have a lead foot. Also, fuel prices vary across states and regions, so budgeting accordingly is essential.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a standardized benchmark, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Owners of the 2019 RC 300 AWD have various experiences, with many finding the EPA’s combined figure achievable with careful driving. However, you need to be gentle with the accelerator and make a deliberate effort to achieve the city MPG. The car’s driving dynamics also affect fuel economy, the engaging handling and responsive engine can be tempting to exploit, which lowers fuel efficiency. Expect figures close to the EPA estimates if you prioritize less gas, but expect lower numbers if you enjoy the car’s performance.

How it compares

The RC 300 AWD’s fuel economy is average compared to similar vehicles in the luxury coupe segment. The BMW 430i xDrive, for example, achieves a slightly better 27 MPG combined thanks to its turbocharged four-cylinder engine, but you lose the Lexus’s smooth V6 power delivery. The Infiniti Q60 AWD, another competitor with a V6 engine, gets similar numbers to the RC, around 22 MPG combined. The Audi A5 Coupe Quattro achieves around 27 MPG combined with its smaller engine. The Mercedes-Benz C300 Coupe 4Matic also offers significantly better fuel economy, around 26 MPG combined, showcasing how smaller engines can sometimes balance performance and efficiency better than the RC 300 AWD. Ultimately, you must choose between power, driving feel, and less gas. Be sure to check out RC MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the RC 300 AWD’s “Eco” driving mode. It slightly dampens throttle response, encouraging better driving habits by adjusting the engine and transmission settings. Switching to “Eco” mode can improve fuel economy, especially in city driving, without completely removing the car’s responsiveness.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which directly impacts fuel consumption. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain it at the recommended levels found on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. This simple step can make a difference.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly and efficiently, and idling consumes fuel without moving the car. This applies to urban environments with frequent stops.

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid acceleration and braking hard. Smooth, consistent driving is much more fuel-efficient than jerky, aggressive maneuvers. Anticipating traffic patterns and maintaining a steady speed minimizes fuel consumption and improves your overall MPG.

If all-weather capability isn’t a necessity, consider the rear-wheel drive version of the RC. Dropping the AWD system can bring slightly better fuel economy, especially on the highway. See all Lexus fuel economy data to fully explore your options.