22 MPG combined is what you get with a flagship luxury sedan like the 2022 Lexus LS 500. No one choosing the LS for its quiet comfort, comfortable interior, and effortless power expects Prius-like efficiency. This car is about arriving in understated style, and drivers willing to spend north of $75,000 on a luxury experience understand that fuel bills are part of the equation.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the LS 500 will achieve 18 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects stop-and-go driving, where the LS 500’s weight becomes a factor. The twin-turbo V6 needs to work harder to accelerate from a standstill. However, the highway number shows this car shines on long cruises. The 10-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine in its sweet spot, maximizing fuel efficiency when the turbos aren’t spooled up. That 29 MPG highway figure is achievable if you drive relaxed and avoid frequent bursts of acceleration that force the turbos into action.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Lexus LS 500 at $2,650. This figure 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 uses the national average fuel price at the time of testing. Remember that your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and where you live. Areas with higher fuel prices will obviously increase your annual expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and carrying extra weight in the vehicle can negatively impact fuel efficiency. and the LS 500’s standard 20-inch wheels, while aesthetically pleasing, add weight and rolling resistance compared to smaller wheels. Owners who prioritize fuel economy might see slightly better results sticking with the base wheel size, if offered as an option. Pay close attention to your driving habits and the conditions you typically encounter to get a more accurate picture of what to expect.

How it compares

When cross-shopping the LS 500, buyers will naturally consider its competitors. The Mercedes-Benz S500, with its turbocharged inline-6 engine, achieves a slightly better 21 MPG city and 30 MPG highway. The BMW 740i, also powered by a turbocharged inline-6, mirrors the S500’s efficiency at 21 city and 29 highway. The Genesis G90, with its 3.5T V6, lands roughly equivalent to the LS 500 at 18 city and 28 highway. However, its lower base price may offset some of the fuel cost difference for budget-conscious shoppers. While these numbers appear close, premium fuel requirements for many of these models will inflate the cost of driving compared to regular gasoline.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The LS 500’s twin-turbo V6 delivers ample power, but sudden bursts of speed will quickly deplete fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady pace whenever possible to minimize unnecessary fuel consumption.

Use the car’s drive modes. The LS 500 typically offers an “Eco” mode that recalibrates the throttle response and transmission mapping to prioritize fuel efficiency. While it may slightly reduce performance, it can make a noticeable difference on longer trips.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended inflation level specified in the owner’s manual or door jamb sticker.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine, especially in urban environments. Modern starters are designed to handle frequent starts and stops without causing undue wear.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and other routine maintenance tasks help ensure the engine runs efficiently. A well-maintained engine will always deliver better fuel economy than one that’s neglected. Take a look at all Lexus fuel economy data. You can also compare to previous model years by searching LS MPG across all years.