The 2021 Lexus RX 350’s 23 MPG combined won’t win any awards, and it’s not the main reason someone chooses this luxury SUV. However, it’s an acceptable number for a smooth, reliable, and well-built vehicle that emphasizes comfort and a plush ride rather than sporty performance. The RX 350 buyer often wants a quiet driving experience, legendary Lexus dependability, and a vehicle that blends into an upscale suburban environment, not necessarily the most fuel-efficient car. They accept the fuel economy as a trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2021 Lexus RX 350 gets 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the characteristics of its proven 3.5L V6 engine and 8-speed automatic transmission. The RX 350’s engine delivers enough power for merging and passing, but it’s not designed for quick acceleration. The focus is on smooth power delivery and quiet operation. In city driving, stop-and-go traffic reduces fuel economy, while the higher highway number shows the benefits of consistent speeds and the transmission’s ability to select taller gears for relaxed cruising. These MPG numbers realistically portray how the RX 350 performs in typical driving.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Lexus RX 350 to be $1,900. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. The calculation also depends on national average fuel prices, which can change. $1,900 is a useful benchmark, but your actual fuel costs will depend on your driving habits and the price of gasoline in your area. This is a data point that should be considered along with all Lexus fuel economy data when looking at the RX’s overall cost of ownership.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized measure, real-world fuel economy can vary. Many RX 350 owners report seeing numbers close to the EPA estimates in mixed driving. However, aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and carrying heavy loads can all decrease fuel economy. Careful driving habits and prioritizing highway miles can potentially yield slightly better results. Driving style has a significant impact on fuel consumption, regardless of the vehicle.

How it compares

The 2021 Lexus RX 350’s fuel economy aligns with many of its competitors in the luxury mid-size SUV segment, but some alternatives offer better numbers. The Acura MDX, with its 3.5L V6, achieves a similar 19 MPG city and 26 MPG highway, although later models offer hybrid variants for improved efficiency. The BMW X3 sDrive30i, with its 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder, boasts 25 MPG combined, making it a more fuel-conscious choice. But the RX 350’s V6 offers a different driving experience, prioritizing smoothness and refinement over fuel efficiency. Checking RX MPG across all years shows slight variations across generations and configurations. These differences show the trade-offs buyers make between performance, luxury, and fuel economy when choosing a vehicle in this segment.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The RX 350’s smooth engine and responsive transmission operate most efficiently when driven gently. Rapid acceleration and hard braking consume more fuel and put unnecessary strain on the engine and drivetrain. Anticipate traffic conditions and maintain a steady pace whenever possible.

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

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine. Modern vehicles, including the RX 350, are designed to restart quickly and reliably, so there’s no need to let them idle unnecessarily.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy on long highway trips. By avoiding fluctuations in speed, cruise control allows the engine and transmission to operate more efficiently. Be sure to disengage cruise control in heavy traffic or adverse weather conditions.

Consider using the RX’s “Eco” mode. This mode adjusts throttle response and other vehicle settings to prioritize fuel efficiency. While it may slightly reduce performance, “Eco” mode can help you save fuel without significantly impacting the driving experience, especially during routine commutes.