23 MPG combined is what you can expect if you want all-wheel drive confidence and Lexus refinement in the 2015 IS 250. This isn’t a hybrid or a fuel-sipping commuter car; it’s a compact luxury sedan for buyers who value driving feel and a prestigious badge more than low running costs. These are drivers who like the smooth sound of a V6 and the planted feeling of all-wheel drive, even if it means more trips to the gas station than some competitors.

City and highway performance

Breaking down that 23 MPG figure, the EPA estimates 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects the IS 250 AWD’s relatively small 2.5L V6 working harder in stop-and-go traffic. The six-speed automatic transmission is geared more for responsiveness than ultimate efficiency, so it accelerates quickly instead of using a tall gear. On the open road, the 27 MPG highway figure is respectable, though not class-leading. Drivers who commute primarily on the highway will see numbers closer to this. Primarily urban dwellers will likely hover around or slightly below the 20 MPG mark. The all-wheel-drive system contributes to the lower fuel economy, adding weight and drivetrain friction compared to a rear-wheel-drive IS 250. The rear-wheel-drive version gets two more miles per gallon in combined driving.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,500 for the 2015 Lexus IS 250 AWD. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year at the national average fuel price. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing the running costs of different vehicles, but your actual fuel expenses will vary depending on your driving habits, location, and the price of gasoline. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and using premium fuel (while not required, some owners prefer it) can all increase that annual cost.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Many IS 250 AWD owners report numbers slightly below the EPA combined figure, usually in the 21-23 MPG range. This is especially true for drivers who mostly drive in the city or like to accelerate quickly. Those who prioritize smooth, consistent throttle inputs and spend more time on the highway can often meet or exceed the EPA’s 27 MPG highway estimate. The car’s driving mode selector (Eco, Normal, Sport) can also influence fuel efficiency. Eco mode softens throttle response and shifts gears earlier, potentially adding an extra mile or two per gallon. Sport mode holds gears longer and sharpens throttle response for a more engaging driving experience, but uses more fuel. Many drivers consult fuelly.com to track IS MPG across all years and share their own results.

How it compares

The 2015 Lexus IS 250 AWD’s fuel economy is not as good as some of its competitors. For example, the BMW 328i xDrive (later renamed the 330i xDrive) with its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, achieves around 27 MPG combined. The Audi A4 2.0T quattro, another popular choice in this segment, also gets better fuel economy than the IS 250. Even the Acura TLX with its V6 engine and all-wheel drive can achieve slightly better figures, closer to 24 MPG combined. The IS 250’s buyers often choose the Lexus brand’s reputation for reliability, build quality, and smooth power delivery over maximizing fuel economy. They might accept a mile or two per gallon less for the unique engine, a choice that becomes more difficult when you consider the better performance of the more powerful IS 350, which delivers similar fuel economy. See all Lexus fuel economy data on this site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use Eco mode strategically, especially in city driving. It might make throttle response less sensitive, but it can improve fuel economy in stop-and-go traffic by smoothing out acceleration and shifting gears earlier.

Keep your tires inflated properly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and use more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side door jamb.

Avoid accelerating and braking hard. The IS 250 AWD’s V6 engine responds quickly, but hard acceleration burns fuel. Similarly, hard braking wastes energy. Watch traffic and drive smoothly.

Reduce weight. Carrying extra cargo in the trunk can significantly impact fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from your vehicle to reduce the load on the engine.

Use a quality fuel system cleaner periodically. Dirty fuel injectors can hinder performance and decrease fuel economy. A good fuel system cleaner can help keep your injectors clean and working well.