The 2017 Lexus IS 350 AWD’s 21 MPG combined fuel economy isn’t setting any efficiency records, and it’s not intended to. This car is made to deliver a blend of performance, luxury, and reliability, with practicality as a secondary concern. The all-wheel drive system, powerful V6 engine, and strong build quality create a driving experience that prioritizes feel over saving gas.

City and highway performance

EPA estimates show fuel economy of 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway, reflecting the IS 350 AWD’s driving characteristics. The city rating is affected by the car’s weight and its 3.5L V6 engine not being optimized for stop-and-go conditions. The six-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, is less efficient than newer transmissions with eight or ten speeds when maximizing fuel economy. On the open road, the 26 MPG highway rating is better and allows for comfortable cruising. However, even at freeway speeds, the AWD system increases drivetrain drag, impacting efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Lexus IS 350 AWD at $2,750. This calculation assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year, with a percentage split between city and highway driving, using the national average fuel price when calculated. Your personal fuel expenditure will depend on your driving habits and fuel prices, but $2,750 provides a useful budgeting benchmark.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a standardized estimate, real-world MPG can vary. Drivers who accelerate quickly will likely see numbers closer to the city rating in mixed driving. Drivers who accelerate smoothly and anticipate traffic flow might achieve figures closer to the highway estimate. Cold weather can also decrease fuel economy, particularly in the city, by increasing engine friction and idle time while the vehicle warms up. Owners of the 2017 Lexus IS 350 AWD understand that fuel economy isn’t the main focus, appreciating the car’s responsiveness and secure handling in all weather conditions more.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2017 Lexus IS 350 AWD’s fuel economy falls short of some rivals. For example, the BMW 340i xDrive from the same year gets 25 MPG combined, and the Audi S4 achieves 24 MPG combined. Even similar powered competitors, like the Infiniti Q50 AWD 3.0t, can reach 22 MPG combined. These differences may seem small, but add up. Many Lexus buyers prioritize reliability and resale value, and given all Lexus fuel economy data, the brand has a good reputation for dependability. Some buyers are particularly interested in IS MPG across all years to select the most efficient model.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Aggressive acceleration and hard braking consume fuel. Smooth acceleration and anticipating traffic flow can improve fuel efficiency, particularly in city driving. Avoid accelerating quickly from stoplights and maintain a consistent speed when possible.

Make sure the tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check pressure regularly, at least once a month, and adjust as needed.

Reduce weight in the vehicle. Extra cargo adds weight, increasing fuel consumption. Remove anything unneeded from the trunk or passenger area.

Minimize idling. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and avoid frequent short bursts of idling, as restarting also consumes fuel.