23 MPG combined is an acceptable figure for the 2018 Lexus RX 350. It precisely reflects the priorities of its target buyer: comfortable, reliable, and luxurious transportation without much compromise. The RX 350 isn’t trying to be a fuel-sipping hybrid, and it isn’t prioritizing off-road prowess or blistering acceleration. It’s a luxury vehicle designed for everyday driving, and its fuel economy is calibrated to that purpose.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2018 Lexus RX 350 are 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The difference between these numbers reveals where the RX 350 excels. Its smooth, naturally aspirated 3.5L V6 and 8-speed automatic transmission prioritize effortless cruising. The RX is at home on long highway drives, where the engine can settle into its most efficient range. City driving, with its stop-and-go nature, naturally brings the fuel economy down. However, even at 20 MPG in urban environments, the RX 350 remains competitive within its class of luxury crossovers. Buyers should note that these figures are based on optimal driving conditions and can vary depending on driving style and traffic.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Lexus RX 350 at $1,900. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the EPA’s combined MPG estimate. The calculation also factors in the national average fuel price at the time of the EPA’s testing. Keep in mind that this is an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may be higher or lower depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and fluctuations in gasoline prices.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often changes. Expect the actual MPG of your 2018 RX 350 to fluctuate based on several factors. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking will negatively impact efficiency. Extensive idling, such as in heavy traffic, will also drag down your average MPG. The use of accessories like air conditioning and heated seats will add a small but noticeable drain. Maintaining proper tire inflation and using the recommended grade of gasoline can help you stay closer to the EPA estimates. Those who live in areas with significant hills or experience extreme temperatures may see further variation in their fuel economy.

How it compares

The RX 350’s fuel economy is important to understand in the context of its competitors. For example, the Acura MDX, another popular luxury crossover, achieves a similar 22 MPG combined with its V6 engine. The BMW X3 xDrive30i, with its turbocharged four-cylinder, manages a slightly better 25 MPG combined, appealing to those prioritizing efficiency over the RX 350’s smoother V6 power delivery. The Audi Q5, also powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder, gets an EPA-estimated 25 MPG combined. A competitor to heavily consider is the RX 450h hybrid, which can achieve around 30 MPG combined by adding electric motors to the V6 powertrain. The Lexus buyer often cross-shops these vehicles, but the RX 350 prevails for drivers who value a proven, naturally aspirated engine and a lower initial purchase price, accepting slightly reduced fuel efficiency as the compromise. You can find RX MPG across all years on this site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy in the RX 350. The 3.5L V6 delivers ample power, so there’s no need to aggressively push the gas pedal. Smooth, gradual acceleration will help the engine operate more efficiently and reduce fuel consumption, especially in scenarios where you would normally floor it. Listen to the engine and feel how it responds as you press the accelerator, adjust your driving style accordingly.

Use the RX 350’s cruise control feature on the highway to maintain a consistent speed. This helps minimize unnecessary speed fluctuations which burn extra fuel. By maintaining a constant speed, the engine operates more efficiently and reduces fuel consumption. This becomes especially helpful on longer road trips where slight changes in your speed can impact your fuel economy over time.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires create increased rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consumes more fuel. Regularly check your tire pressure, especially during temperature changes, and inflate them to the specifications listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. This simple step can noticeably improve fuel economy.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the RX 350 to improve fuel economy. Remove any items from the vehicle that are not essential, as extra weight puts a strain on the engine and reduces efficiency. The extra set of golf clubs, the toolbox, or other unnecessary items will impact fuel economy, especially when driving around town so be sure to clear those out.

Regularly perform maintenance on your 2018 RX 350 to keep it running efficiently. This includes oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently, which leads to better fuel economy. Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended maintenance schedule, and stick to these schedules to help optimize efficiency. You can find all Lexus fuel economy data here.