24 MPG combined won’t set records, but it’s perfectly acceptable for the 2016 Lexus ES 350. This isn’t a hybrid, a compact, or even a sport sedan that prioritizes efficiency. The ES 350 is a comfort-focused luxury sedan, bought by people who value a quiet driving experience and a reputation for reliability above all else. For this specific buyer, the fuel economy is good enough, playing a secondary role to the car’s primary mission.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2016 ES 350 will achieve 21 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the car’s character. The 3.5L V6 provides ample power for effortless merging and passing on the open road, contributing to the respectable highway number. In the city, the engine’s displacement and the car’s overall weight become more apparent, leading to the lower fuel economy. The smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission is programmed for comfort rather than outright efficiency, prioritizing smooth transitions over aggressively seeking the highest gear.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Lexus ES 350 at $1,800 per year. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles annually, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. The calculation also uses the national average fuel price for regular unleaded gasoline at the time of the estimate. Individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, local gas prices, and the type of fuel used. While premium fuel is not required, some owners may choose to use it, further impacting their annual fuel expenditure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized metric, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and consistently high speeds will all negatively impact fuel consumption. But, a careful driver who spends a majority of their time on the highway can likely exceed the EPA’s 31 MPG highway estimate. Properly maintaining the vehicle, including ensuring correctly inflated tires and performing regular maintenance, will also help optimize fuel efficiency.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2016 Lexus ES 350 sits in a middle-of-the-road position regarding fuel economy. The Acura TLX with the 3.5L V6, for example, achieves an EPA-estimated 25 MPG combined, slightly better than the ES 350. The Buick LaCrosse with its available 3.6L V6 also achieves 25 MPG combined. However, some competitors fare worse. The Chrysler 300S with its 3.6L V6 gets only 23 MPG combined. These small differences matter less to the ES 350 buyer, as they are prioritizing other features. Those who consider themselves economy-focused should see all Lexus fuel economy data to make sure this car is right for them. If fuel economy is a key concern, shoppers may consider the Lexus ES 300h hybrid, which offers significantly better MPG at the expense of some performance. You can also review ES MPG across all years to examine trends and differences.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2016 ES 350 responds well to smooth, deliberate driving. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady pace whenever possible. The naturally aspirated V6 offers plenty of torque, so there’s rarely a need to aggressively push the engine.

Regular maintenance is critical. Ensure that your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Keep up with scheduled oil changes too. Fresh oil reduces friction within the engine, helping to improve efficiency.

Minimize idling time. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turning off the engine can save fuel. While the savings may seem small initially, they can add up over time, especially during city driving with frequent stops and starts. Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the vehicle, as this will also impact fuel consumption.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed can significantly improve fuel economy compared to fluctuating speeds. Try to find the sweet spot where your fuel consumption is optimized, generally between 55-65 mph. Exceeding this speed significantly increases wind resistance, harming your MPG.

Consider your drive mode select. While the ES 350 doesn’t have a dedicated “Eco” mode, the “Normal” drive mode prioritizes fuel efficiency without sacrificing too much responsiveness. Experiment with different drive modes to find the best balance of performance and economy for your driving style.