The 2022 Lexus RX 350 L AWD with its 3.5L V6 engine gets 21 MPG combined. This fuel economy accurately reflects the priorities of those who choose this particular SUV, as it prioritizes a comfortable, reliable, and luxurious experience for families who occasionally need a third row. This RX isn’t designed to be a hyper-efficient hybrid, but rather to deliver a familiar, dependable Lexus experience, even if it means compromises at the pump.

City and highway performance

The RX 350 L AWD’s EPA estimates are 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the demands placed on the 3.5L V6 in stop-and-go traffic, where the engine works harder and the automatic transmission cycles frequently. The highway number is better, as the engine settles into a more efficient cruising speed. However, those looking for better fuel economy in urban environments might consider the RX 450h hybrid, which trades some horsepower for improved MPG in city driving. For a deeper dive, you can review RX MPG across all years.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Lexus RX 350 L AWD will be $2,100. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this figure is a national average and your actual fuel costs could be higher or lower depending on local fuel prices, your driving habits, and the type of driving you do. For example, those who primarily drive in the city likely will spend more annually, whereas those who do mostly highway driving may see a lower fuel bill.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized estimate, and real-world fuel economy can vary. Factors such as driving style, weather conditions, and terrain all play a role. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking will decrease fuel economy, while smooth, consistent driving will improve it. Expect the RX 350 L AWD to deliver mileage close to the EPA estimates under normal driving conditions, but be prepared for variations based on specific circumstances. The weight of passengers and cargo also impacts fuel efficiency, particularly in the 350 L model which already carries additional weight over its standard RX sibling.

How it compares

The Lexus RX 350 L AWD’s fuel economy is in the middle of the competitive three-row luxury SUV segment. The Acura MDX SH-AWD achieves a slightly better 21 MPG combined with its V6 engine, however drivers report that the RX has a more luxurious ride. The Infiniti QX60, another popular choice, also hovers around 21 MPG combined. For buyers prioritizing fuel economy, the Volvo XC90 Recharge plug-in hybrid offers a good alternative, boosting MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) thanks to its electric powertrain, but also adds complexity and a higher price tag. The Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring plug-in hybrid is one more very important competitor for fuel economy. Review all Lexus fuel economy data to understand the full spectrum of its range.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration, as the RX 350 L AWD responds best to a smooth and steady driving style. Accelerating gently from a stop and maintaining a consistent speed on the highway will help you maximize fuel economy. The V6 responds well to gentle driving, and fuel economy will drop notably as you explore the faster end of the tachometer.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. This is a simple measure that can make a noticeable difference.

Reduce unnecessary weight, as carrying unnecessary cargo in your vehicle will decrease fuel economy. Remove any items that you don’t need to carry regularly. The same goes for roof racks — only install them when you need them.

Use cruise control on the highway to help maintain a constant speed, which improves fuel economy on long drives. Avoid using cruise control in hilly areas, as the transmission may downshift frequently, negating some of the benefits. Adaptive cruise control can be used to allow for automatic distance to cars in front, but this can reduce gas mileage in certain driving conditions.