23 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy contests, but that’s perfectly acceptable for the 2016 Lexus RX 350 3.5L 6-cyl. Lexus understands its target demographic: professionals, empty-nesters, and suburban families who value reliability, comfort, and a touch of luxury over outright fuel efficiency. This vehicle is designed for confident, unhurried commuting and comfortable road trips, and the fuel consumption reflects that priority. They’re not chasing Prius owners, they’re chasing peace of mind and a smooth ride, and they’re more than willing to pay a little extra at the pump to get it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Lexus RX 350 come in at 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the RX 350’s weight and the inherent inefficiencies of stop-and-go driving. The eight-speed automatic transmission does its best to keep the engine in its most efficient range, but a naturally aspirated 3.5L V6 moving a vehicle of this size will always have its limitations in urban environments. The highway figure is more respectable, showcasing the benefits of the transmission’s higher gears and the engine’s ability to cruise comfortably at sustained speeds. The key to achieving that 27 MPG is consistent throttle input and avoiding aggressive acceleration.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Lexus RX 350 at exactly $1,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with roughly 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. It also assumes the use of regular unleaded gasoline and factors in the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Individual costs may vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the actual number of miles driven each year. If you primarily drive in the city or have a lead foot, expect to exceed that $1,900 figure. Conversely, those who spend more time on the highway and drive conservatively could potentially save a few hundred dollars annually.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized baseline, real-world fuel economy always varies. Owners of the 2016 RX 350 often report figures that are close to, but sometimes fall slightly short of, the EPA estimates. Factors like tire pressure, weather conditions, and the use of accessories such as air conditioning can all impact fuel consumption. and the RX 350’s all-wheel-drive system, while enhancing traction and stability, can also slightly reduce fuel economy compared to the front-wheel-drive model. Aggressive driving habits, including rapid acceleration and hard braking, are the biggest reasons when it comes to falling short of the EPA’s targets. However, patient drivers can certainly match the official numbers, and sometimes even exceed them, especially on long highway trips.

How it compares

The 2016 RX 350’s fuel economy positions it in the middle of the pack within the luxury SUV segment. The Acura MDX, for example, with its 3.5L V6, achieves a similar 22 MPG combined. The BMW X5 xDrive35i, with its turbocharged inline-6, offers comparable performance but often struggles to match the RX 350’s highway fuel economy in real-world driving. The Lincoln MKX, sharing a similar engine displacement, lands in the same MPG range. The real story lies in the RX 450h hybrid variant, which significantly outpaces its gasoline counterpart, but at a higher initial price. Buyers ultimately choose the RX 350 often because its blend of comfort, reliability, and acceptable fuel economy aligns perfectly with their priorities, outweighing a slight fuel economy disadvantage compared to its more technologically advanced competitors. Compare this year to RX MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to optimizing fuel economy in the RX 350. The 3.5L V6 delivers ample power, but unnecessary bursts of speed will quickly deplete your fuel tank. Focus on smooth, gradual throttle inputs to minimize the engine’s workload and maximize efficiency.

Maintain the correct tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regularly check your tire pressure and inflate them to the recommended levels listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. This simple step can have a noticeable impact on your fuel economy.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in your RX 350 increases fuel consumption. Remove any items you don’t need, such as sporting equipment or tools, to lighten the vehicle’s load and improve its efficiency. Every pound counts.

Avoid idling for prolonged periods. Idling wastes fuel and contributes to emissions. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The RX 350’s engine is designed to restart quickly and reliably, so you won’t experience any inconvenience.

Plan your routes strategically. Avoid congested areas and routes with frequent stops and starts. Opt for routes that allow for consistent speeds and minimal braking. Using navigation apps to identify and avoid traffic can significantly improve your fuel economy. For all Lexus fuel economy data, see our brand overview.