21 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but it’s the price of admission for the 2018 Lexus RC 300 AWD. This isn’t a car bought for maximizing efficiency. It’s a statement, a personal luxury coupe that prioritizes style and a connected driving experience over squeezing every last mile from a gallon of premium unleaded. The RC 300 AWD owner values the sculpted lines, the plush interior, and the surefootedness of all-wheel drive more than bragging rights at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2018 RC 300 AWD break down to 18 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the demands of stop-and-go traffic, where the 3.5L V6 works harder and the all-wheel-drive system adds to the drivetrain loss. The highway number is more palatable, achievable when cruising at a steady speed. Remember that these figures are based on standardized testing; your actual mileage will vary depending on driving habits, road conditions, and even tire pressure. Lexus designed the RC 300 AWD to be a comfortable grand tourer, and its highway MPG reflects that.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Lexus RC 300 AWD at $2,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline, which is required for optimal performance. It’s important to remember this is an estimate. If you drive significantly more or less than 15,000 miles annually, or if fuel prices in your area are higher or lower than the national average, your actual fuel costs will differ. Consider this figure a benchmark for understanding the potential cost of ownership.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often deviates. RC 300 AWD owners often report mileage slightly below the EPA estimates, particularly in mixed driving conditions. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, and prolonged idling all contribute to decreased fuel efficiency. Conversely, drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration and maintain consistent highway speeds may see figures closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA estimates. Driver behavior is a critical factor in determining the actual fuel consumption of this vehicle. Check out all Lexus fuel economy data here.

How it compares

The RC 300 AWD’s fuel economy places it squarely in the middle of its competitive set. The BMW 430i xDrive coupe, for example, achieves a slightly better 24 MPG combined thanks to its turbocharged four-cylinder engine, but sacrifices the smooth power delivery of the Lexus’ V6. The Audi A5 Quattro, another all-wheel-drive contender, also gets around 24 MPG combined. The Infiniti Q60 AWD with its V6 can only muster about 22 MPG combined. These slight differences matter less to the RC 300 AWD buyer; they are more interested in comparing styling, interior quality, and brand cachet than splitting fractional MPG savings. Potential buyers should investigate RC MPG across all years to get a sense of longer-term trends. The 21 MPG is an accepted tradeoff for the Lexus’ overall package.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the RC 300 AWD isn’t inherently fuel-sipping, there are steps owners can take to improve their gas mileage. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The V6 responds readily to a heavy foot, but smooth, gradual inputs will conserve fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires create increased rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature fluctuations.

Minimize idling. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and avoiding prolonged idling can save a surprising amount of fuel over time, especially in city driving.

Use the Lexus’ drive mode selector. The “ECO” mode recalibrates the throttle response and transmission mapping to prioritize fuel efficiency. While it might slightly reduce performance, it can make a noticeable difference in fuel consumption, particularly on longer drives.

Keep your vehicle well-maintained. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements ensure that the engine is running optimally. A properly maintained engine is a more efficient engine.