24 MPG combined is a good figure for the 2015 Lexus ES 350, though ultimate efficiency isn’t really the main goal. This car prioritizes a smooth, quiet ride and a strong V6 engine over squeezing every last mile from each gallon. The ES 350 buyer is after a comfortable and luxurious driving experience, and they’re typically willing to accept middling fuel economy as a trade-off for that refinement.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2015 ES 350 break down to 21 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. The city number is about what you’d expect from a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 powering a car of this size. Frequent stop-and-go driving takes its toll. Highway fuel economy is more impressive, showcasing the benefits of the ES 350’s smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission and relatively aerodynamic design, which allows it to cruise comfortably and efficiently at consistent speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Lexus ES 350 at $1,800. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices, which can fluctuate greatly throughout the year. It’s a useful benchmark for comparison, but keep in mind that your personal fuel expenditures could be higher or lower depending on your individual driving habits and the price of gasoline in your area.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary considerably. Factors such as driving style, traffic conditions, and even tire pressure can have a noticeable impact. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will certainly lower your MPG, while a more conservative approach will help you get closer to the EPA figures. Regularly scheduled maintenance, including air filter replacements and proper tire inflation, also plays a critical role in maintaining optimal fuel efficiency. Don’t expect hybrid-like numbers, but achieving something close to 24 MPG combined is certainly realistic for most drivers.

How it compares

In the context of its competitors, the 2015 Lexus ES 350 lands somewhere in the middle of the pack. For example, the Acura TLX with the 3.5L V6 offered similar performance and fuel economy, rated at 21 MPG city and 34 MPG highway. The Buick LaCrosse, another comfortable and similarly sized sedan from this era, also with a V6, achieved around 18 MPG city and 28 MPG highway. Stepping up to a larger rear-wheel-drive sedan like the Chrysler 300 with its V6 would typically result in even lower fuel economy numbers. Of course, many buyers considered the ES 300h hybrid, which offered significantly better fuel economy, around 40 MPG combined, for buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency above all else. For many shoppers, assessing all Lexus fuel economy data alongside other luxury marques helps finalize their decision.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Lexus ES 350 rewards smooth and steady driving. Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking, as these behaviors consume significantly more fuel. Anticipate traffic conditions and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible. Using cruise control on the highway can also help improve fuel economy by maintaining a constant throttle position.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during seasonal temperature changes.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine and restart it. Modern engines are designed to handle frequent starts and stops without any adverse effects. This is even more true on the hybrid model — checking ES MPG across all years can inform purchase considerations.

Keep your vehicle well-maintained. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance can all contribute to improved fuel efficiency. A properly maintained engine runs more efficiently, resulting in better MPG.

Consider eco-driving mode, if equipped. This mode typically adjusts throttle response and transmission shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency over performance. While it may slightly reduce acceleration, the difference in fuel economy can be noticeable, especially in city driving.