28 MPG combined is a reasonable fuel economy figure for the 2022 Lexus NX 250 AWD. It’s not class-leading, nor is it disappointing. It’s simply adequate, and for the target buyer of this model, that’s perfectly acceptable. The NX 250 buyer isn’t necessarily chasing ultimate fuel efficiency; they’re prioritizing the Lexus badge, the comfortable driving experience, and the all-weather confidence of all-wheel drive. They’re willing to accept a slightly less-than-stellar MPG in exchange for those attributes.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the NX 250 AWD achieves 25 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the vehicle’s driving characteristics. The city MPG is solid, helped by the NX’s relatively compact size and responsive throttle. The highway number, while decent, shows that the 2.5L engine works a little harder at higher speeds. Unlike some of its turbocharged competitors, the naturally aspirated engine relies on consistent revs to maintain momentum, which can impact efficiency on long highway journeys. The NX engine also delivers smooth and predictable power delivery that many drivers appreciate.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $1,550 for the 2022 Lexus NX 250 AWD. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices. That being said, it provides a useful benchmark for comparing the NX 250’s running costs to those of other vehicles in its class. You can explore all Lexus fuel economy data to get a broader understanding of the brand’s fuel efficiency.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a good starting point, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly. Drivers who spend most of their time in stop-and-go traffic may see figures closer to the city estimate, or even slightly lower. Conversely, those who primarily drive on the highway with minimal traffic may achieve numbers closer to, or even slightly above, the highway estimate.

Driving style also plays an important role. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will negatively impact fuel economy, while smoother, more gradual driving will help to maximize it. Weather conditions can also play a minor role. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can reduce fuel economy due to increased use of air conditioning or heating.

How it compares

In the compact luxury SUV segment, the NX 250 AWD finds itself in a competitive landscape. The Acura RDX, for instance, achieves a combined 23 MPG with its turbocharged four-cylinder and standard all-wheel drive. The BMW X3 sDrive30i (rear-wheel drive) manages 25 MPG combined, while the xDrive30i (all-wheel drive) gets 24 MPG. The Volvo XC60 B5 AWD is rated at 25 MPG combined. These numbers highlight that while the NX 250’s fuel economy is not exceptional, it’s generally in line with, or slightly better than, many of its all-wheel drive competitors. However, shoppers prioritizing fuel economy might consider the NX 350h hybrid trim, which offers significantly improved efficiency. You can also view NX MPG across all years to see how this model compares across its lifecycle.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Lexus eight-speed automatic transmission is designed to optimize fuel economy, so letting it do its job is key. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these will force the transmission to downshift frequently, consuming more fuel. Instead, adopt a smooth and gradual driving style, allowing the transmission to shift smoothly and efficiently.

Tire pressure plays an important role in fuel economy. Ensure that your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, as indicated on the door jamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressures regularly and adjust as needed, especially during changes in temperature.

Whenever possible, avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Excess cargo increases the load on the engine, which requires more fuel to move the vehicle. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger compartment to reduce weight and improve fuel economy. Consider leaving items at home that are not required for your journey.

Reduce your use of air conditioning when possible. Air conditioning places a significant load on the engine, which reduces fuel economy. When the weather is mild, try using the ventilation system instead of the air conditioning. When you do need to use the air conditioning, try setting the temperature slightly higher to reduce the load on the engine. Keeping the windows closed at highway speeds also affects aerodynamics, which could help ever so slightly.