19 MPG combined isn’t a great feature of the 2015 Lexus RC F. It’s simply part of the car. This isn’t a hybrid commuter designed to maximize fuel efficiency, it’s a naturally aspirated, high-revving performance coupe engineered for driving thrills. RC F buyers understand this tradeoff. They prioritize the visceral experience, the responsive throttle, the soaring engine note, and the precise handling, over saving gas. This is a car bought with emotion, not calculation.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the RC F gets 16 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. Those numbers, while official, only show part of the picture. Stop-and-go city driving will hurt fuel economy, especially if you’re tempted to drive the car hard. The highway figure is more likely during steady cruising. However, the RC F is meant for spirited backroad drives, where fuel economy isn’t a concern. The eight-speed automatic transmission is reasonably responsive, but downshifts for passing will inevitably impact fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2015 Lexus RC F is $3,050. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of testing. Actual fuel costs will vary depending on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. Given the engine’s high-performance design, premium fuel is highly recommended, which will likely increase the overall cost slightly.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect to consistently match the EPA figures if you drive the RC F as intended. Driving enthusiastically, with frequent acceleration and aggressive cornering, will significantly reduce MPG. Owners who mostly use the RC F for commuting in congested areas will likely see numbers closer to the city estimate, or even lower. Those who take long highway trips and drive more calmly might achieve the highway figure, but it requires effort. Consider the EPA numbers a best-case scenario. Real-world MPG will likely be lower, especially if you enjoy the car’s performance.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the RC F’s fuel economy is average. A 2015 BMW M4, for example, gets a combined 20 MPG with its turbocharged inline-six. The Mercedes-AMG C63 S coupe achieves a similar combined figure of 19 MPG, also from a turbocharged V8. However, the Cadillac ATS-V with its 3.6L twin-turbo V6 manages a slightly better 19 MPG combined. The RC F buyer chooses to pay a small fuel cost in exchange for the unique sound of the naturally aspirated 5.0L V8, and Lexus’s reliability. This is a conscious choice, favoring a specific driving experience over small gains in fuel efficiency. You can also compare RC MPG across all years to see how different model years perform.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Don’t accelerate hard from every stop. The RC F’s power makes it tempting to accelerate aggressively, but easing into the throttle will significantly improve fuel economy. The less you use that readily available power, the less you’ll visit the gas station.

Use the car’s driving modes. ‘Sport’ and ‘Sport+’ modes sharpen throttle response and firm up the suspension, while ‘Eco’ mode softens throttle input and optimizes shift patterns for fuel efficiency. Switching to ‘Eco’ during highway cruises can make a noticeable difference. This is a practical choice when performance isn’t critical.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regularly check your tire pressure and maintain the proper levels. Proper tire inflation also helps handling and tire wear.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo adds weight, which reduces fuel efficiency. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger area to lighten the load and improve MPG. Every little bit helps, especially in a performance car.

Proper maintenance is important. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the maintenance schedule, including timely oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. Neglecting maintenance can decrease performance and reduce fuel economy. For more perspective, compare all Lexus fuel economy data.