22 MPG combined is a middling figure in the crowded luxury SUV segment, but for the 2019 Lexus RX 350 AWD, it’s arguably beside the point. This vehicle isn’t bought for outright efficiency; it’s bought for smooth comfort, quietness, and Lexus’s legendary reliability. The typical RX buyer prioritizes a quiet driving experience and a reputation for bulletproof engineering over squeezing every last mile from a gallon of gasoline. They desire a luxurious, hassle-free ownership experience, and the RX delivers that, even if it’s not the thriftiest choice.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the RX 350 AWD achieves 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects the RX’s weight and the inherent inefficiency of stop-and-go driving, further compounded by the energy required to turn all four wheels. The highway figure is more palatable, suggesting that longer journeys at a steady cruise are reasonably efficient. However, keep in mind that the 3.5-liter V6 needs to work harder to maintain speed when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers and cargo, which will impact the highway mileage. The automatic transmission is programmed for efficiency, favoring higher gears to keep the engine relaxed, sometimes to the detriment of immediate responsiveness.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Lexus RX 350 AWD at exactly $2,000. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. The calculation also uses the national average fuel price at the time of testing. Your actual fuel expenses will vary depending on how you drive, where you drive, and the prevailing gasoline prices in your area. This $2,000 benchmark provides a standardized yardstick for comparing fuel costs with other vehicles, even if your personal experience will be different.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates offer a benchmark, achieving those figures requires effort. The RX 350’s smooth and quiet demeanor can mask its speed, and a heavy foot will quickly diminish fuel economy. Hills, headwinds, and aggressive acceleration will all contribute to lower MPG. Drivers who frequently engage the “Sport” mode, which sharpens throttle response and holds gears longer, should expect a dip in fuel efficiency. Consider softer acceleration and anticipate traffic flow to maintain momentum. Many owners find they achieve numbers close to the EPA estimates with a balanced approach to driving.

How it compares

The RX 350 AWD’s fuel economy puts it in the middle of the pack when compared to its competitors. For instance, the Acura MDX SH-AWD, another popular choice in the segment, achieves an EPA-estimated 21 MPG combined. The BMW X3 xDrive30i, with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine, manages a slightly better 24 MPG combined. However, generally people selecting the RX 350 AWD favor the Lexus’s reputation for reliability and smooth V6 power delivery over the marginal fuel savings offered by other models. Buyers shopping for the RX Hybrid might find significantly improved mileage; check RX MPG across all years.

If fuel economy is important, one can see all Lexus fuel economy data to explore other options.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is crucial for optimal fuel economy. Ensure your RX 350’s tires are properly inflated, as low tire pressure increases rolling resistance and reduces MPG. Also, stick to the recommended oil change schedule; using the correct oil type can improve engine efficiency and prolong its life.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Modern engines are designed to be restarted easily, and idling for more than a minute or two consumes fuel without moving the vehicle. Turn off the engine when waiting in long lines or while stopped for extended periods, especially if you’re running the air conditioning.

Lighten the load. Carrying unnecessary weight in your RX 350 can negatively impact fuel economy. Remove any items from the trunk or cargo area that you don’t need on a regular basis. The heavier the vehicle, the more energy it takes to accelerate and maintain speed.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a steady speed helps to optimize fuel consumption. Cruise control also prevents unintentional speeding, which can further reduce fuel economy. Be mindful of road conditions and traffic flow when using cruise control; disengage it in heavy traffic or on hilly terrain.