23 MPG combined is a figure you accept when you prioritize quiet luxury and effortless power over saving gas. The 2018 Lexus LS 500 with its 3.4L twin-turbo V6 isn’t chasing Prius-like efficiency; it’s offering a distinctly Lexus take on high-end motoring, where refinement and responsiveness are critical. This is for the executive who values a hushed cabin and a smooth ride, not someone meticulously tracking every tenth of a gallon.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the LS 500 are 19 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. While 19 MPG in urban environments may not be groundbreaking, it’s a reasonable trade-off for the immediate thrust provided by the turbocharged engine when navigating stop-and-go traffic.

The 30 MPG highway figure, however, is more impressive. This means long road trips are not only supremely comfortable thanks to the LS 500’s exceptional seats and sound insulation, but also relatively economical for a car of this size and power. The 10-speed automatic transmission plays an important role here, keeping the engine in its most efficient rev range at cruising speeds.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Lexus LS 500 is approximately $2,500. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a national average fuel price.

Of course, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your local fuel prices, your driving habits, and the percentage of city versus highway driving you typically do. Driving more aggressively or spending a significant amount of time in heavy city traffic will undoubtedly increase your annual fuel expenditure above this EPA estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a consistent benchmark, real-world fuel economy can change. LS 500 owners often report numbers close to the EPA estimates during typical commutes that blend both city and highway driving. However, pushing the car’s performance capabilities or frequently engaging the Sport driving mode will noticeably affect fuel consumption. The LS 500’s turbocharged engine and other drivetrain parts are designed to deliver power when needed, and using that power will obviously come at the expense of efficiency. Understanding your own driving style is key to setting realistic fuel economy expectations.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2018 Lexus LS 500’s fuel economy places it squarely in the mix. The Mercedes-Benz S560, with its 4.0L V8, posts similar figures, around 19 MPG city and 29 MPG highway. The BMW 740i, with its turbocharged inline-six, achieves slightly better numbers, around 21 city and 29 highway.

The Cadillac CT6, depending on engine choice, offers a wide range, but the V6 versions are generally comparable. These numbers matter to the LS 500 buyer, but not as much as overall experience; the Lexus prioritizes a specific kind of smooth, quiet confidence that justifies a slight dip in MPG compared to some rivals. You can view all Lexus fuel economy data to further understand where the LS fits into the overall lineup.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the LS 500’s drive modes. The “Eco” mode will remap the throttle response and shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency, making it ideal for low-speed city driving and highway cruising. Experiment with this mode and see if the diminished throttle response is acceptable for your daily driving, as it can noticeably improve MPG.

Maintain optimal tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy. The recommended tire pressure for the LS 500 is typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The LS 500’s twin-turbo V6 delivers ample power, but rapid acceleration consumes significantly more fuel. Smooth, gradual acceleration and anticipatory braking will help you maximize fuel efficiency without sacrificing the car’s refined driving experience. It helps to read LS MPG across all years to familiarize yourself with what is possible.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The LS 500’s start/stop system can help with this in city driving, but be mindful of situations where it might not be appropriate, like in very hot weather when you need the AC running.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements, ensures that the engine is running efficiently. A well-maintained engine consumes less fuel and performs optimally, extending the life of your LS 500 and keeping those MPG figures as close as possible to the EPA’s estimates.