Owners of the 2020 Lexus NX 300 AWD get 24 MPG combined. This number isn’t particularly impressive in the automotive world, but it’s a compromise many Lexus buyers accept. The NX isn’t about pure efficiency; it’s about a premium experience, Lexus reliability, and the signature spindle grille in a conveniently sized package. For affluent suburbanites who value comfort and resale value over fuel savings, the middling fuel economy is often an acceptable trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2020 Lexus NX 300 AWD at 22 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the demands of stop-and-go traffic, showing the engine’s need to constantly accelerate from a standstill. The 28 MPG highway rating is fairly optimistic, achievable mostly when cruising at steady speeds. If you push the NX harder on the open road, or encounter large elevation changes, you’ll likely see that number drop closer to the combined figure. The six-speed automatic transmission, while smooth and reliable, contributes to some of the efficiency problems compared to newer eight- or ten-speed units in some competing models. It’s an older design, prioritizing smoothness over fuel savings.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Lexus NX 300 AWD at $2,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with fuel prices reflecting a national average. It’s a useful benchmark for comparison, but your actual expenses will vary based on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the grade of gasoline you choose. The NX 300 doesn’t explicitly require premium fuel, but some owners report slightly better performance and fuel economy when using it.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a standardized baseline, but real-world MPG often differs. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and prolonged idling can significantly decrease fuel efficiency. But gentle acceleration, consistent highway speeds, and diligent maintenance can help you approach or even slightly exceed the EPA estimates. Owners should expect to see real-world combined MPG figures ranging from the low 20s to the mid 20s, depending on individual driving habits and conditions. Many report averaging around 23 MPG in mixed driving scenarios, a number consistent with the vehicle’s weight, powertrain, and all-wheel-drive system. Compare this against all Lexus fuel economy data for a broader perspective of the brand’s range, see NX MPG across all years.

How it compares

The 2020 Lexus NX 300 AWD’s fuel economy is not a highlight in the competitive compact luxury SUV segment. The Acura RDX, with its turbocharged engine and more modern drivetrain, achieves a slightly better 23 MPG combined with AWD. The BMW X3 xDrive30i, another popular choice, gets 24 MPG combined, thanks to its more advanced eight-speed transmission. Other competitors, such as the Volvo XC60 T5 FWD (25 MPG combined) offer better fuel efficiency, but the NX has a reputation for bulletproof reliability. The NX’s strength has never been its fuel economy. Buyers typically prioritize Lexus’s reputation for reliability, its luxurious interior, and its distinctive styling over maximizing MPGs. Many of these buyers are likely repeat Lexus customers who highly value the brand’s customer service and long-term ownership experience. If fuel efficiency is your top priority, there are better options in this class.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The 2.0L turbocharged engine in the NX 300 is responsive, but frequent bursts of speed will drastically impact fuel consumption. Maintain a smooth and consistent driving style, anticipating traffic flow to minimize unnecessary acceleration and deceleration.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel efficiency. Regularly check your tire pressure and inflate them to the recommended level, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in your NX 300 will negatively affect fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need, decluttering the cabin and cargo area to minimize unnecessary weight. Every extra hundred pounds reduces MPG.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance will help keep your engine running efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule to ensure optimal performance and fuel economy. Ignoring scheduled maintenance could hurt your MPG.

Limit idling time. When stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine to conserve fuel. Excessive idling consumes fuel without covering any distance, significantly lowering your overall MPG. This is especially relevant during morning warm-ups in colder climates, instead of idling, begin driving gently to warm the engine more quickly and efficiently.