23 MPG combined won’t win any awards for lower fuel costs, but for the 2020 Lexus LS 500, it’s what owners expect. This isn’t a car bought to save gas; it’s purchased for quiet isolation, effortless power, and a meticulously crafted interior. The LS 500 driver values smooth handling and understated luxury over Prius-rivaling efficiency.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates show a difference between city and highway figures. The LS 500 achieves 19 MPG in the city. This reflects the stop-and-go driving that taxes any engine, particularly one moving a vehicle of this size and weight. The highway figure, however, jumps to a respectable 30 MPG. This difference highlights the LS 500’s strength: it’s a comfortable and efficient car on long journeys. The 10-speed automatic transmission is important here, keeping the engine at its best at higher speeds and maximizing fuel efficiency when possible.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Lexus LS 500 is $2,500. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This number will change depending on your driving habits, local fuel costs, and the type of fuel you use. For those considering an LS 500, this $2,500 annual cost should be factored into the overall cost of ownership, along with insurance, maintenance, and depreciation.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and tire pressure can impact the numbers. LS 500 owners who want smooth acceleration and maintain a steady cruising speed are more likely to achieve or exceed the EPA estimates. But, those who frequently use the 3.4L twin-turbo V6’s power may find themselves closer to the city MPG figure, regardless of the driving environment. Checking LS MPG across all years user reports can provide more data.

How it Compares

The Lexus LS 500 is in a competitive segment. The BMW 740i, with its 3.0L turbocharged inline-six, achieves a combined MPG of 25, slightly better than the LS 500. The Mercedes-Benz S500, with a 3.0L inline-six turbo, posts a 24 MPG combined rating. The Audi A8, with its 3.0L V6, lands at a similar 22 MPG combined. These slight differences might matter to some buyers, but the LS 500’s appeal often lies in its reputation for reliability, its unique design, and the Lexus ownership experience.
You can find all Lexus fuel economy data on this site.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key. The LS 500 has torque, so there’s no need to aggressively apply the throttle to get up to speed. Smooth acceleration will reduce fuel consumption, especially in city driving.

Use Eco mode when appropriate. Eco mode re-tunes throttle response and transmission mapping to prioritize fuel efficiency. While it might slightly reduce the feeling of urgency, it’s a worthwhile trade-off for maximizing MPG during less demanding driving situations, such as highway cruising or leisurely city commutes.

Maintain optimal tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check and maintain the recommended tire pressure, which can be found on the driver’s side doorjamb or in the owner’s manual.

Minimize idling. Excessive idling wastes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. The LS 500’s start-stop system is designed to handle these situations in most driving conditions.