24 MPG combined puts the 2025 Lexus NX 350 AWD 2.4L 4-cyl in the “sensible luxury” category, a sweet spot for buyers who demand premium refinement, all-weather confidence, and strong reliability without wanting to spend the significant premium for a hybrid powertrain. This isn’t a vehicle chasing outright efficiency records; it’s about providing a thoroughly competent and enjoyable driving experience with respectable, rather than groundbreaking, fuel consumption for its segment. The NX 350 AWD caters to a professional or small family who values comfort, a quiet cabin, and the peace of mind that comes with Lexus ownership. They accept this fuel economy because it represents a balanced approach – a powerful enough engine for confident passing and merging, paired with an intelligent all-wheel-drive system, all wrapped in an elegantly designed package. They aren’t looking to maximize every last drop of fuel but rather to minimize compromise.

City and highway performance

Delivering 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway, the NX 350 AWD’s 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and 8-speed automatic transmission are tuned for smooth, linear power delivery rather than aggressive fuel-sipping. The city figure, at 21 MPG, is quite reasonable for a compact luxury SUV weighing in around 4,000 pounds, especially one equipped with all-wheel drive. Stop-and-go traffic is rarely efficient, but the NX manages this with grace, its engine stop/start system helping to shave off a few precious sips at long lights. On the highway, 28 MPG is a solid showing, allowing for extended cruising ranges and comfortable road trips. The engine settles into a quiet hum at speed, barely breaking a sweat, ensuring that long drives are as relaxing as they are efficient for its class. For more insights on the NX, explore our NX MPG across all years.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,400 for the 2025 Lexus NX 350 AWD 2.4L 4-cyl. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, split between city and highway driving, and using an average national fuel price. It provides a useful benchmark for budgeting and understanding the ongoing running costs of the vehicle. For a luxury SUV, this annual expense sits comfortably within expectations, reflecting its combined 24 MPG rating and the premium fuel typically recommended for turbocharged engines. This isn’t an astronomical figure that will shock buyers, but it’s a tangible cost that factors into the overall ownership experience, a cost that buyers of luxury vehicles are generally prepared to absorb for the complete package received.

Real-world expectations

In real-world driving, owners of the NX 350 AWD can generally expect to see numbers very close to the official EPA estimates, assuming a typical driving style. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will, of course, depress those figures, particularly in city driving. Conversely, a disciplined driver using smooth inputs and anticipating traffic can often exceed the highway rating. The 2.4L turbocharged engine is responsive, meaning it can tempt enthusiastic drivers, but its inherent character is one of refined power rather than raw aggression. The all-wheel-drive system provides crucial traction without a significant constant parasitic drag, only engaging fully when needed, minimizing its impact on everyday fuel consumption. The vehicle’s aerodynamic design also plays a subtle role in maintaining efficiency at higher speeds.

How it compares

The 2025 Lexus NX 350 AWD’s 24 MPG combined rating holds its own in the fiercely competitive compact luxury SUV segment. Consider some key rivals: the BMW X3 xDrive30i, which is rated at 24 MPG combined (21 city/28 highway), essentially mirroring the NX 350. The Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 4MATIC typically achieves 24 MPG combined (22 city/29 highway), demonstrating very similar efficiency. Audi’s Q5 45 TFSI quattro comes in at 26 MPG combined (23 city/29 highway), offering a slight edge in efficiency. Cadillac XT4 AWD delivers 24 MPG combined (22 city/29 highway), once again aligning closely. The Acura RDX A-Spec SH-AWD nets 23 MPG combined (21 city/26 highway), falling just slightly behind. This comparison illustrates that the NX 350 isn’t an outlier; it’s a strong contender that delivers competitive fuel economy for its powertrain and segment. Buyers choosing the NX 350 are generally not doing so solely for its fuel economy; rather, they are getting a package that’s competitive across the board, with fuel efficiency being one important aspect. For more data on Lexus vehicles, including comparisons, check our all Lexus fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintain consistent speeds on the highway. Using cruise control, especially adaptive cruise control if equipped, helps to avoid unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which are major fuel consumers for the 2.4L turbo engine. Smooth, predictable driving maximizes the efficiency of the 8-speed automatic transmission.

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, which directly impacts fuel economy. Even a few pounds under can make a noticeable difference over time for a vehicle of this size and weight.

Anticipate traffic flow to avoid sudden braking and acceleration, especially in city driving. The NX 350’s powertrain is designed for refinement, and a gentle foot on both the accelerator and brake pedal will yield better city MPG figures.

Limit excessive idling, particularly if you’re waiting for passengers or sitting in a drive-thru. While the engine stop/start system helps, actively turning off the engine for longer stops is even more effective at conserving fuel.

Minimize unnecessary weight. While the NX 350 is a capable hauler, removing heavy items from the cargo area that aren’t needed for your daily commute can marginally improve fuel efficiency. Every little bit helps when aiming to optimize your MPG.