The 2016 Lexus GS 350, with its 23 MPG combined rating, doesn’t focus on maximum fuel efficiency. It’s a mid-size luxury sedan designed for a refined driving experience, and the fuel economy reflects the balance between performance and comfort. Buyers in this segment often prioritize a smooth, powerful engine and a beautifully appointed interior, understanding that fuel savings are secondary.

City and highway performance

EPA estimates for the 2016 GS 350 show 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. This difference reflects its 3.5L V6 engine and eight-speed automatic transmission. In stop-and-go conditions, the engine works harder, which drops efficiency. However, on the open road, the powertrain is more relaxed, making 28 MPG achievable during longer trips. The powertrain prioritizes effortless acceleration and passing power over absolute fuel efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Lexus GS 350 to be $2,500. This calculation assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year in mixed conditions, based on national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel expenses will depend on your driving habits, local fuel costs, and driving mix. This $2,500 figure provides a benchmark for comparing the GS 350’s running costs to others in its class. You can also compare this to all Lexus fuel economy data.

Real-world expectations

EPA figures provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy varies. Expect mileage to change based on driving style, traffic, and weather. Hard acceleration and braking will lower fuel consumption. Proper maintenance, with regular tire pressure checks and servicing, will help achieve optimal efficiency. Premium fuel is recommended, increasing overall fuel costs.

How it compares

The GS 350’s competitors have different fuel efficiency. The BMW 535i with its 3.0L inline-six engine gets around 24 MPG combined, a bit better. The Mercedes-Benz E350, with a V6, is similar at around 23 MPG. The Acura TLX V6 offers a slightly better compromise at around 25 MPG combined. These differences can add up. The GS 350’s buyer likely weighs Lexus’s reliability and the car’s driving dynamics against MPG. A comparison to GS MPG across all years is also helpful.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Watch traffic and avoid accelerating unnecessarily. The GS 350’s power delivery makes it easy to accelerate quickly, but that will reduce fuel economy. Drive smoothly and maintain a consistent speed.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and reducing fuel efficiency. Check pressures regularly and inflate them to the levels on the sticker inside the driver’s side door.

Minimize idling time. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The GS 350 restarts quickly and smoothly, a good option for saving fuel in city driving.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a steady speed minimizes throttle input changes, improving fuel economy on longer trips. Disengage cruise control in heavy traffic or bad weather.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance keep the engine running efficiently. A well-maintained engine uses less fuel and performs better.