21 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but the 2017 Lexus IS 300 AWD isn’t trying to be a Prius. This is a compact luxury sport sedan designed to deliver confident all-weather performance with Lexus refinement. The kind of buyer drawn to the IS 300 AWD prioritizes sure-footedness and a smooth engine note over squeezing every last mile from a gallon of premium fuel. They want the security of all-wheel drive and the prestige of the Lexus badge. Fuel economy is a consideration, certainly, but not the main reason for their purchase.

City and highway performance

The IS 300 AWD’s EPA ratings break down to 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the reality of stop-and-go driving, where the 3.5L V6 works harder to overcome the car’s weight and the inherent inefficiencies of urban environments. The highway number is more palatable, showcasing the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at steady speeds. The six-speed automatic transmission, while mechanically smooth, contributes to the lower highway MPG figure than more modern transmissions with more gears might provide. The gearing is primarily focused on acceleration and responsiveness, slightly sacrificing ultimate fuel efficiency at higher speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Lexus IS 300 AWD at $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a fuel price that reflects the national average for premium gasoline, which this vehicle requires. Your actual fuel expenses may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (mostly city or mostly highway), and the prevailing fuel prices in your area. Consider this figure a baseline for comparison against other vehicles and a tool for budgeting your transportation costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often deviates from the official numbers. The aggressiveness of your driving style has a significant impact. Frequent hard acceleration and prolonged idling can noticeably reduce your MPG. Conversely, adopting a smoother driving style and anticipating traffic flow can bring you closer to, or even slightly exceed, the EPA estimates. The IS 300 AWD weighs over 3,700 pounds, which is significant for a compact sedan, and this makes it more sensitive to driving habits than a lighter car. Tire pressure also plays a role, so keeping your tires properly inflated is critical.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the IS 300 AWD’s fuel economy is generally on the lower end. The BMW 330i xDrive, for example, boasts an EPA rating of 27 MPG combined with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The Acura TLX SH-AWD with the V6 engine is rated at 24 MPG combined. Even the Infiniti Q50 AWD, often criticized for its thirst, achieves a slightly better 22 MPG combined. However, the IS 300 AWD buyer might feel that the Lexus’s superior reputation for reliability and the smoother engine offsets the MPG deficit. For those wanting to see all Lexus fuel economy data, the numbers are there. If you are interested in just IS MPG across all years, that information is available as well.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Aggressive acceleration is a fuel economy killer in the IS 300 AWD. Given its V6 engine and AWD system, demanding quick bursts of speed requires a significant amount of fuel. Gentle acceleration and anticipating traffic flow allows the car to maintain momentum, which results in better fuel economy.

Regular maintenance is key to optimizing fuel efficiency, so make sure your IS 300 AWD undergoes scheduled servicing, including spark plug replacement, air filter changes, and oil changes. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently and burns fuel more cleanly.

Tire pressure significantly impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain it at the recommended levels, which can be found on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. The right tire pressure extends tire life, improving safety.

Minimize idling. Idling burns fuel without moving the car, resulting in zero MPG. In situations where you anticipate being stationary for more than 30 seconds, it’s best to turn off the engine. This is especially important in city driving where idling is a common occurrence.