2015 Lexus LX 570: Fuel Economy Analysis

14 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel efficiency awards, but in the 2015 Lexus LX 570, it’s almost beside the point. This is a body-on-frame SUV built for strong off-road capability, luxurious appointments, and a commanding presence that prioritizes comfort and outright ability over squeezing every last mile from a gallon of gasoline. LX 570 owners accept this compromise, knowing they’re piloting a vehicle engineered for rugged terrain and insulated from the outside world in a way few others can match.

City and highway performance

The LX 570’s EPA ratings break down to 12 MPG in the city and 17 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the LX’s weight, which is over 6,000 pounds, combined with a naturally aspirated 5.7-liter V8. The engine delivers ample power for confident acceleration, but it requires a significant amount of fuel to move all that mass, especially in stop-and-go traffic. The six-speed automatic transmission, while smooth and reliable, isn’t the most fuel-efficient compared to the more modern eight- or ten-speed units found in some competitors, and this contributes to the lower city MPG figure.

On the highway, the LX 570 fares slightly better, but its large frontal area and less-than-aerodynamic shape still limit its efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $4,150 for the 2015 Lexus LX 570. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a national average fuel price. This is a significant expense, and potential LX 570 buyers should carefully consider it as part of the overall cost of ownership.

Factors like local fuel prices and individual driving habits can cause this number to fluctuate. Anyone considering this generation of LX will have to accept that trips to the gas station will be a frequent occurrence.

Real-world expectations

While EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary. Expect to see numbers close to the EPA figures if you do a mix of city and highway driving. However, frequent short trips, cold weather conditions, or aggressive driving can easily push the average below 14 MPG. Towing, a common use case for many SUV owners, will also drastically reduce fuel efficiency.

Keep in mind that the LX 570 requires premium gasoline, adding further to the expense.

How it compares

Compared to its contemporaries, the LX 570’s fuel economy lags behind some competitors. For example, the 2015 Cadillac Escalade, with its 6.2-liter V8, manages 17 MPG combined. Even the Land Rover Range Rover, another luxury SUV with off-road prowess, achieves around 16 MPG combined with its supercharged V6 variant. The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class (later GLS) offered slightly better fuel consumption with its diesel variants, approaching 20 MPG combined.

These differences, though seemingly small, can add up over time. Potential buyers should evaluate if the LX 570’s unique capabilities and brand appeal outweigh the fuel economy disadvantage against these other options. LX MPG across all years shows a consistent trend.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the LX 570 will never be a fuel sipper, there are some strategies to help squeeze out a bit more efficiency. Gentle acceleration and deceleration are key. Avoid sudden bursts of speed from a standstill, as this puts a heavy strain on the engine and wastes fuel.

Proper tire inflation is critical. Regularly check your tire pressure and ensure it matches the manufacturer’s recommended settings. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. This is even more important given the weight of this full-size SUV.

Minimize unnecessary cargo. The less weight the LX 570 carries, the less fuel it consumes. Remove any items from the vehicle that aren’t essential, as every extra pound contributes to lower fuel economy figures.

Regular maintenance is critical. Ensure the engine is properly tuned, and follow the recommended service schedule outlined in the owner’s manual. Clean or replace the air filter regularly, as a clogged filter can restrict airflow and reduce engine efficiency. all Lexus fuel economy data can be used to inform maintenance schedules.

Avoid extended idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling consumes a surprising amount of fuel, offering zero miles in return.