19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but for the 2017 Lexus LS 460 L, it’s a calculated compromise. This isn’t a car for hypermilers or budget-conscious commuters. It’s a rolling sanctuary for executives, dignitaries, and anyone else who prioritizes quiet comfort and effortless power over fuel sipping. The LS 460 L appeals to those who value a plush, quiet ride and the prestige of the Lexus badge. For them, the fuel cost is simply a cost of doing business.

City and highway performance

The 2017 LS 460 L, with its naturally aspirated 4.6L V8, returns an EPA-estimated 16 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the demands of stop-and-go traffic, where the large engine and hefty curb weight take their toll. The highway number is more palatable, thanks to the smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission that allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs. While 24 MPG on the open road is reasonable, more modern luxury sedans, including some with forced induction, can easily surpass this figure in real-world highway driving. The LS 460 L excels at gliding down the interstate but isn’t particularly efficient doing it.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Lexus LS 460 L is $3,050. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with an assumed fuel price reflecting the national average at the time of testing. Of course, individual fuel costs will vary depending on local fuel prices and driving habits. Someone who spends considerably more time in city traffic will likely exceed this estimate, while a driver who primarily uses the car for long highway trips might come in slightly under. However, $3,050 serves as a solid benchmark for potential operating expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures offer a standardized comparison, real-world fuel economy often differs from the numbers on the window sticker. LS 460 L owners frequently report achieving figures close to the EPA estimates, but aggressive driving habits, frequent short trips, and prolonged idling in traffic can all negatively impact fuel consumption. Those who drive with a lighter foot and prioritize smooth acceleration will likely see the best results. This car rewards a relaxed driving style, anyway. Some have reported achieving slightly better highway figures than the EPA estimate, particularly on long, flat stretches of road with the cruise control engaged.

How it compares

The 2017 LS 460 L’s fuel economy places it behind many of its competitors. For example, the 2017 BMW 740i, with its turbocharged inline-six, achieves an EPA-estimated 21 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz S550 from the same year, with its turbo V8, is rated at 20 MPG combined. Even the Audi A8 3.0T, another supercharged V6 option, betters the Lexus at 22 MPG combined. These differences, while seemingly small on paper, can add up over the course of a year. For the LS 460 L buyer, fuel economy is only one piece of the puzzle. They are potentially willing to trade off some efficiency for the Lexus’s legendary reliability and smooth, naturally aspirated V8 engine.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The LS 460 L is not inherently fuel-efficient, but there are steps you can take to minimize fuel consumption. Avoid hard acceleration and braking. The car’s ample torque allows for smooth, gradual acceleration, and anticipating traffic conditions can reduce the need for sudden stops.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended pressure listed on the tire placard.

Minimize idling. Excessive idling wastes fuel and contributes to unnecessary emissions. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The LS 460 L’s climate control system is effective, so you won’t suffer much discomfort in short periods of inactivity. See LS MPG across all years.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy. However, be mindful of hills, as the system might downshift aggressively, negating some of the benefits. It pays to be smooth and anticipate traffic, no matter what aids you use from time to time.

Consider removing unnecessary weight from the vehicle. Excess cargo adds to the car’s overall weight, reducing fuel economy. Remove items you don’t need to carry around, especially in the trunk. If you are curious about all Lexus fuel economy data, you could find other models that better suit your lifestyle as well.