25 MPG combined is respectable for the 2017 Lexus NX 200t, a compact luxury crossover that prioritizes style, comfort, and a smooth driving experience over pure fuel efficiency. This number isn’t going to win any economy contests, but it’s a trade-off that many NX buyers are willing to accept for the Lexus brand, the plush interior, and the turbocharged punch of its 2.0-liter engine.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the NX 200t at 22 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city rating reflects the frequent stops in urban driving, where the NX’s engine works harder to accelerate its nearly 4,000-pound curb weight. The highway figure, on the other hand, shows that the NX is relatively efficient at a steady cruise. This split suggests the NX is best suited for suburban environments where highway driving is common, or for longer commutes with limited stop-and-go. Owners primarily driving short distances in congested urban areas might find their actual fuel economy closer to the city rating.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Lexus NX 200t at $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using national average fuel prices. Remember that your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and using premium fuel consistently (though not required) will all increase your annual fuel expenditure beyond this estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. Owners of the 2017 NX 200t report numbers that are generally in line with the EPA’s estimates, with some achieving slightly better or worse figures depending on their driving style and conditions. Those who prioritize fuel economy, practice gentle acceleration, and maintain consistent speeds are more likely to achieve the EPA’s combined rating, and possibly even exceed the highway rating on long trips. Conversely, drivers who frequently accelerate hard, use the sport mode, or drive primarily in heavy traffic are likely to see lower fuel economy numbers. Remember that external factors such as weather conditions (extreme heat or cold) and tire pressure can also affect fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The 2017 Lexus NX 200t competes in a crowded segment of compact luxury crossovers. The Acura RDX, for example, with its standard V6 engine, achieves a slightly lower 23 MPG combined. The BMW X1, with its turbocharged 2.0-liter, matches the NX’s 25 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz GLA 250, another direct competitor with a turbocharged 2.0-liter, also achieves 25 MPG combined. These numbers reveal that Lexus is not targeting buyers explicitly seeking top-tier fuel economy as one of their must-have features. Those shoppers might look to hybrid or electric options. Instead, by examining all Lexus fuel economy data, or even more specifically NX MPG across all years, it becomes clear that the Lexus brand aims to strike a balance between reasonable efficiency, performance, and the overall ownership experience which includes superior comfort and reliability ratings.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The NX 200t’s turbocharged engine responds quickly to throttle input, but using that boost frequently will significantly reduce fuel economy. Gradual acceleration and anticipating traffic patterns will help keep the engine within its most efficient operating range.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications, found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern starters are designed to handle frequent starts without causing excessive wear.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which can significantly improve fuel economy on long trips. The NX 200t’s adaptive cruise control system can further enhance efficiency by automatically adjusting your speed to maintain a safe following distance.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo increases the vehicle’s weight, which in turn reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk or cargo area to lighten the load and improve efficiency. While this small adjustment may seem inconsequential, added along with the other tips, it can add up to significant fuel savings.