22 MPG combined won’t win any fuel efficiency awards, but for the 2018 Lexus GS 350 F Sport, it’s a deliberate trade-off. This isn’t a hybrid or an economy car; it’s a mid-size luxury sedan designed for drivers who prioritize responsiveness and smooth power over getting the most out of every drop of fuel. Performance and efficiency often don’t go hand-in-hand. The F Sport trim emphasizes performance, so that’s likely a factor for buyers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 Lexus GS 350 F Sport gets 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go conditions where its 3.5L V6 engine works harder, especially with the F Sport’s more aggressive throttle. The highway number is better, showing the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at steady speeds. This suggests the car is better for longer commutes and road trips than dense urban environments, though it’s certainly comfortable enough to handle city driving.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2018 Lexus GS 350 F Sport is $2,650. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel expenses may vary depending on your driving habits, the roads you drive on, and local fuel prices.

Real-world expectations

The EPA numbers provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy depends on driving habits. Expect the GS 350 F Sport’s fuel economy to change based on how aggressively you drive. Frequent hard acceleration and braking will significantly decrease MPG, especially around town. If you drive smoothly and deliberately, particularly on the highway, you’ll get closer to the EPA’s 27 MPG claim. The F Sport’s sport-tuned suspension and sharper handling might encourage more spirited driving, so owners should remember that if saving gas is a concern.

How it compares

The GS 350 F Sport’s fuel economy is typical for a V6-powered, mid-size luxury sedan. The BMW 540i xDrive, with its 3.0L inline-6, delivers a nearly identical 22 MPG combined. The Audi A6 3.0T comes in slightly better at 24 MPG combined, thanks to its more advanced drivetrain and engine management. A Mercedes-Benz E450 4MATIC, also with a 3.0L inline-6 turbo, achieves a similar 23 MPG combined. These competing vehicles show that the GS 350 F Sport’s fuel economy is not unusual for its class, and the buyer must decide if they care about squeezing out another MPG or simply enjoy the characteristics of the V6 engine. You can also compare the GS MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the GS 350 F Sport’s Eco mode when performance isn’t important. This setting adjusts throttle response and transmission behavior to prioritize fuel efficiency. It won’t turn the car into a Prius, but it can make a difference in everyday driving, especially in stop-and-go traffic.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended specifications, which are on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking. Smooth, deliberate driving is key to maximizing fuel economy. By looking ahead and maintaining a consistent speed, you’ll reduce fuel waste and extend the range of each tank.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine run while stationary consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern cars are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so there’s no need to idle.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. A properly maintained engine runs more efficiently. Regular tune-ups, including oil changes and air filter replacements, ensure that all components are working well and that you’re getting the best fuel economy. Be sure to check all Lexus fuel economy data, and look after your car.