The 2024 Lexus RX 350h AWD gets 36 MPG combined, good for the luxury crossover segment, and offers a blend of fuel efficiency and all-wheel drive that some buyers want. It prioritizes refined comfort, understated luxury, and minimizing trips to the gas station while handling snow and rain. The RX 350h is a choice for the buyer who values fuel economy as much as a plush interior and the Lexus badge. They seek a comfortable and reliable vehicle that won’t break the bank at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA numbers favor city driving, with a rating of 37 MPG, compared to 34 MPG on the highway. This is typical for hybrid vehicles, which use regenerative braking and electric motor assistance more at lower speeds and in stop-and-go traffic. The 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, along with the hybrid system and the automatic (AV-S6) transmission, delivers smooth and adequate power for most driving situations. Drivers who commute in urban environments will likely see fuel economy figures closer to the EPA’s city rating, while those who frequently drive on highways should expect results closer to the 34 MPG mark. Remember these are estimates, and individual driving habits will influence real-world numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Lexus RX 350h AWD at $1,600. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This figure is a way to compare the RX 350h to other vehicles, but your actual fuel expenses will depend on factors like your local fuel prices, driving habits, and the percentage of city versus highway driving. If you drive less than 15,000 miles annually or live in an area with lower fuel costs, your actual expenses will likely be lower than the EPA’s estimate. If you drive fast often or live in an area with high fuel prices, your expenses will go up.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized measure, real-world fuel economy can change. Driving style, terrain, weather, and even tire pressure can have an impact. Hard acceleration, frequent hard braking, and neglecting maintenance can all reduce fuel efficiency. With a conscious effort to drive calmly and maintain the vehicle, owners should see numbers close to the EPA’s estimates. Expecting to consistently exceed the EPA’s city rating in mixed driving might be too optimistic. The RX 350h rewards a gentle driving style, and those who drive calmly will be most satisfied with their fuel economy.

How it compares

The RX 350h’s fuel economy is better than its non-hybrid counterparts and competitors. The gasoline-powered RX 350 gets significantly lower numbers, around 25 MPG combined. Against other hybrid luxury crossovers, the RX 350h is competitive. The Acura MDX Sport Hybrid gets around 27 MPG combined, making the Lexus comparatively better. Even against smaller offerings like the Lexus NX 350h (39 MPG combined), the RX 350h balances fuel efficiency and interior space. Comparing RX MPG across all years shows the improvements Lexus has made to fuel economy over the vehicle’s lifespan. These comparisons matter to the RX 350h buyer because they are constantly evaluating the total cost of ownership, including the purchase price, fuel expenses, and long-term reliability. They would do well to review all Lexus fuel economy data as part of their process.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the RX 350h’s Eco driving mode. This mode optimizes the vehicle’s systems for maximum fuel efficiency by adjusting throttle response and climate control settings. Eco mode will reduce performance somewhat, but it’s good for maximizing MPG during everyday driving.

Check your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and ensure that your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, found on a sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Avoid aggressive driving habits such as rapid acceleration and hard braking. These habits consume more fuel and reduce the efficiency of the regenerative braking system. Drive with smooth, gradual acceleration and anticipate traffic conditions to avoid unnecessary braking. Gentle and anticipatory driving is key.

Use accessories that consume extra power, such as the air conditioning and heated seats, sparingly. While these features enhance comfort, they also add stress to the engine and hybrid system. Only use these accessories when needed to save fuel, especially during shorter trips, allowing the RX 350h’s hybrid system to work.