The 31 MPG combined fuel economy is a core appeal of the 2016 Lexus NX 300h AWD: It’s a luxury compact SUV that prioritizes fuel efficiency without completely sacrificing the premium experience. Owners of the NX 300h aren’t chasing ultimate performance; they want a comfortable, well-appointed vehicle that won’t break the bank at the gas pump. They’re willing to trade a bit of driving excitement for reduced running costs and the peace of mind that comes with Lexus reliability.

City and highway performance

The EPA numbers reveal an interesting characteristic of the NX 300h’s hybrid drivetrain: it favors city driving. The official city MPG is 33, exceeding the 30 MPG rating for highway driving. This makes sense, given the electric motor’s ability to handle low-speed acceleration and regenerative braking efficiently in stop-and-go traffic. On the open road, the 2.5L 4-cylinder engine takes on a larger role, and the aerodynamic limitations of the SUV shape become more apparent. While 30 MPG on the highway is respectable, it highlights the NX 300h’s leaning towards urban environments.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Lexus NX 300h AWD at $1,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using fuel prices from the national average. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of gasoline you choose, but the $1,400 provides a benchmark for comparing the NX 300h to other vehicles in its class. The cost savings are a significant factor for budget-conscious luxury buyers.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized testing, real-world fuel economy often differs. NX 300h owners frequently report figures close to the EPA estimates, although aggressive driving or predominantly highway commutes can lower the average. Gentle acceleration, anticipating traffic, and using the “EV” mode for short distances at low speeds can help to achieve or even exceed the official MPG ratings. The hybrid system’s effectiveness is most noticeable in urban environments, so those who spend a significant amount of time in city traffic are likely to see the greatest fuel savings.

How it compares

The NX 300h competes with other luxury compact SUVs, and its fuel economy is a key differentiator. For example, the gasoline-powered Acura RDX, a popular alternative, typically achieves around 22 MPG combined. The BMW X3, a sportier option, returns approximately 24 MPG. Even some non-luxury SUVs, such as higher trims of the Toyota RAV4, struggle to match the NX 300h’s efficiency. The Lexus shines when compared to similarly equipped all-wheel-drive competitors. all Lexus fuel economy data shows how the NX 300h prioritizes efficiency. For potential buyers, the MPG gap represents long-term savings and less gas, justifying the initial price premium for many.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Lexus NX 300h thrives on smooth, predictable driving. Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking whenever possible, allowing the regenerative braking system to capture energy and recharge the battery. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed. The hybrid system is most effective when the electric motor can assist the gasoline engine.

Take advantage of the “EV” mode for short, low-speed trips. This mode allows the NX 300h to run solely on electric power for a limited distance, further reducing fuel consumption. Use the EV mode carefully, as it drains the battery and can impact overall performance if used excessively.

Tire pressure is critical in fuel efficiency. Maintain the recommended tire pressure specified on the doorjamb sticker. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which leads to higher fuel consumption. Check and adjust your tire pressure regularly for optimal performance.

Minimize unnecessary weight. The more weight the NX 300h carries, the harder the engine and electric motor have to work, reducing fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle, such as sporting equipment or tools that are not regularly used.

Consider using the air conditioning sparingly. While comfort is important, running the air conditioner puts an extra load on the engine, decreasing fuel efficiency. On moderate days, try opening the windows or using the ventilation system instead. You can explore the NX MPG across all years to compare efficiency across different models and trim levels.