If you’re considering a 2016 Lexus LS 460 AWD with its 4.6L V8, the key figure is 18 MPG combined. This isn’t a hybrid designed for maximum fuel savings; instead, it shows what priorities matter to a certain luxury buyer. They value effortless power, a very smooth ride, all-weather confidence, and the famously meticulous build quality of Lexus. Fuel economy is considered, but it’s not the top priority.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the LS 460 AWD gets 16 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s need to work harder in stop-and-go traffic, especially given the car’s weight and the always-engaged all-wheel-drive system. On the open road, aided by the smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission, the engine settles into a more relaxed state, allowing it to stretch a gallon of premium unleaded further. However, aggressive acceleration, even on the highway, will quickly lower those numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates that the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Lexus LS 460 AWD will be about $3,200. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of estimation. Your actual fuel costs could vary significantly depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (more city versus highway), and, of course, local fuel prices. If you primarily drive in an urban setting with high fuel costs, expect to exceed this $3,200 figure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standard, real-world driving experiences often differ. LS 460 AWD owners often report achieving figures close to the EPA estimates, but only if they drive carefully. Drivers who accelerate quickly, or those frequently engaging the car’s sport mode, should expect lower numbers. Winter tires, important for the all-wheel-drive system to perform well in snowy conditions, add rolling resistance and decrease fuel economy. You can explore LS MPG across all years.

How it compares

When looking at fuel economy, it’s important to consider the LS 460 AWD in the context of its competitors. The similarly equipped BMW 750i xDrive from the same year, also featuring a V8 and all-wheel drive, gets about 16 MPG city and 25 MPG highway, a slight advantage on the highway. The Mercedes-Benz S550 4MATIC, another direct rival, posts EPA numbers around 17 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. While those rivals offer slightly better numbers, the LS 460 provides owners with Lexus’s reputation for near-bulletproof reliability, a major selling point for many in this segment. Some LS buyers also consider the Cadillac CT6, its AWD 3.6L V6 rated at 18 MPG city / 27 MPG highway. These comparisons show that the LS 460, while not the most efficient in its class, is within the expected range for a large, all-wheel-drive luxury sedan with a V8. Check all Lexus fuel economy data to compare.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The LS 460 responds well to smooth, careful driving. Avoid sudden acceleration, anticipate traffic flow, and maintain a steady speed when possible. The car’s weight and engine size mean that any fast acceleration uses a noticeable amount of fuel.

Regular maintenance is critical. Make sure your tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure because under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance. Also, schedule routine engine tune-ups and oil changes per the Lexus maintenance schedule. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently.

Minimize idling. Modern engines don’t need long warm-up periods, and idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you expect to be stopped for more than a minute or two, think about turning off the engine. This can lead to fuel savings over time.

Remove extra weight. Extra weight in the trunk or back seat puts more strain on the engine and reduces fuel economy. Take out any unnecessary items from your car to minimize the amount of work the engine has to do. A lighter vehicle is always more efficient.