23 MPG combined makes the 2025 Lexus TX 350 an efficient entry point into the large, luxurious three-row SUV segment, particularly for a vehicle that prioritizes interior volume and plush accommodations over overt athleticism. This figure isn’t about setting efficiency records in the compact crossover class; it’s about providing substantial family utility, upscale comfort, and the undeniable cachet of a Lexus badge without unduly punishing the fuel budget. The TX 350, with its turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, is engineered for families who have outgrown mid-size offerings but aren’t quite ready for the full-size behemoths, valuing a composed ride, quiet cabin, and predictable, satisfying performance in their daily routines.

City and highway performance

Breaking down that combined figure reveals a clear operational bias. The 2025 Lexus TX 350 achieves 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. For many large SUVs, the disparity between city and highway performance can be quite stark, often due to their weight and the stop-and-go nature of urban driving. Here, the turbocharged 2.4L engine, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission (S8), manages to mitigate some of that typical urban penalty. The strong low-end torque characteristic of turbocharged engines helps move the TX’s substantial mass from a standstill with less effort than a naturally aspirated counterpart might require, contributing to that respectable city figure. On the open road, the tall gearing of the 8-speed transmission allows the engine to lope along at lower RPMs, enhancing fuel efficiency and refining the cruising experience, which is precisely where the TX 350 shines brightest for long family trips. That 27 MPG highway figure underscores its capability as an effortless long-distance cruiser, gobbling up miles with a reassuring sense of calm and competence.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,500 for the 2025 Lexus TX 350. This figure is based on a standard assumption of driving 15,000 miles per year, split roughly 45% highway and 55% city, and current national average fuel prices. While individual mileage and local fuel costs will naturally vary, this $2,500 estimate provides a valuable benchmark for budgeting. For a large luxury SUV, this is a relatively palatable annual expense, reflecting the TX 350’s focus on balanced efficiency. Buyers of the TX 350 aren’t typically fixated on penny-pinching at the pump, but they do appreciate when luxury and practicality can coexist without exorbitant running costs. This annual cost represents a commitment to providing a luxurious, spacious family hauler that doesn’t demand constant trips to the gas station, a significant consideration for busy families.

Real-world expectations

In the real world, the 23 MPG combined rating of the TX 350 is quite attainable for drivers who operate within typical parameters. The turbo-four’s character actually aids in this. Unlike larger, thirstier V6 or V8 engines where a heavy foot can send MPG figures plummeting, the 2.4L provides sufficient power without encouraging excessive exuberance that dramatically impacts fuel economy. Drivers who frequently find themselves mired in heavy traffic or who consistently tow heavy loads will likely see figures closer to the city rating, or even slightly below, depending on the severity of the conditions. Conversely, those whose driving consists predominantly of highway cruising on flatter terrain will often find themselves matching or even slightly exceeding the 27 MPG highway rating. The TX 350 is aimed at drivers who appreciate a smooth, quiet, and comfortable ride, and these driving habits naturally align well with achieving its stated fuel economy. It’s a vehicle built for the routine, for the school runs and the weekend getaways, not for track days or extreme off-roading, and its fuel economy reflects that mission. For a complete look at all Lexus fuel economy data, you can explore our extensive database.

How it compares

The 2025 Lexus TX 350’s 23 MPG combined positions it well within its competitive set, especially considering its generous interior space. Let’s look at some rivals. The Acura MDX, for instance, with its standard 3.5L V6, typically achieves 22 MPG combined (19 city/26 highway) for its FWD models, and 21 MPG combined (19 city/25 highway) for its AWD versions. The TX 350 clearly edges out the MDX’s V6, particularly on highway and combined figures. Moving to European contenders, a base Volvo XC90 B5, also employing a mild-hybrid turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder, manages 25 MPG combined (22 city/28 highway). Here, the TX 350 is slightly behind the XC90 B5, but the Volvo is a bit smaller in ultimate third-row volume. The Audi Q7 45 TFSI, with its 2.0L turbo-four, typically sees 22 MPG combined (19 city/25 highway), placing it a notch below the TX 350. These comparisons highlight that the TX 350 is competitive, if not class-leading, for a non-hybrid large luxury SUV. It strikes a balance that appeals to buyers who may not want the added complexity or cost of a hybrid system, but still demand efficiency that doesn’t feel archaic compared to modern powertrains. For those interested in how the TX MPG stacks up across all model years, check out our analysis of TX MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maximizing the TX 350’s fuel economy largely hinges on smooth, deliberate driving inputs. The turbocharged engine performs best when not constantly subjected to heavy throttle applications, so aim for gradual acceleration and anticipate traffic flow to avoid unnecessary braking.

Regular maintenance is important for keeping any vehicle, including the TX 350, operating at its peak efficiency. This includes ensuring tires are properly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressures, performing oil changes on schedule, and replacing air filters as needed. A well-maintained engine is an efficient engine.

Use the TX 350’s driving modes. While Eco mode might feel a bit sluggish for some, experimenting with it on longer highway stretches can yield tangible fuel savings by adjusting throttle response and transmission shift points for maximum efficiency.

Minimize unnecessary weight. While the TX is designed to be a family hauler, removing heavy items that are not regularly needed, such as roof racks when not in use or forgotten cargo, reduces the load on the engine and thus improves fuel consumption.

Plan your routes effectively to reduce stop-and-go driving. Using navigation apps to avoid traffic jams and find the most efficient paths can significantly impact city MPG, minimizing the time spent idling or accelerating from a standstill.