22 MPG combined is not going to win any awards, but it’s also not necessarily a deal-breaker for the typical 2020 Lexus RX 350 AWD buyer. This isn’t the SUV you choose if hypermiling is your hobby. It’s the SUV you choose because you value Lexus’ reputation for reliability, a quiet ride, and a luxurious interior. Fuel economy, while a consideration, often takes a back seat to these more subjective qualities for the target demographic.

City and highway performance

The RX 350’s 3.5L V6 and eight-speed automatic transmission deliver predictable, if not groundbreaking, fuel economy in different driving conditions. The EPA estimates 19 MPG in the city, reflecting the stop-and-go nature of urban driving where the engine spends more time idling or accelerating from a standstill. On the highway, the RX 350 fares better, achieving 26 MPG, thanks to consistent speeds and less demand on the engine. This spread of 7 MPG between city and highway driving is fairly typical for a non-hybrid SUV of this size and indicates that owners who primarily use the RX for commuting in congested areas will likely see lower overall fuel economy than those who frequently embark on longer road trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Lexus RX 350 AWD at $2,000. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the EPA’s estimated combined fuel economy of 22 MPG. The calculation also assumes a national average fuel price, which fluctuates throughout the year. While this $2,000 figure provides a useful benchmark for comparing the RX 350’s fuel costs with other vehicles, individual spending may vary based on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the actual number of miles driven annually.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a useful starting point, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Owners of the 2020 Lexus RX 350 AWD will likely see numbers that deviate from the official figures depending on several factors. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, carrying heavy loads, and even weather conditions can all impact fuel consumption. Keeping tires properly inflated and ensuring the vehicle is well-maintained can help drivers stay closer to the EPA estimates. Online owner forums and fuel tracking apps are good sources for gauging realistic MPG expectations for this particular model and its drivers.

How it compares

The RX 350’s fuel economy places it squarely in the middle of its competitive set. The Acura MDX, another popular luxury SUV, achieves a similar 22 MPG combined with its standard V6 and all-wheel drive. Certain turbocharged four-cylinder rivals, such as the Volvo XC60 B5 AWD (25 MPG combined), offer a slight advantage in fuel efficiency, but at the potential expense of the RX 350’s V6 power delivery. Even the hybrid version of the RX, the RX 450h, only gains a few MPG, landing at 30 MPG combined. Those considering the RX 350 AWD are often prioritizing a balance of luxury, reliability, and V6 performance over outright fuel savings, which explains limited adoption of the hybrid at the expense of a higher initial cost.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking are crucial for maximizing fuel economy in any vehicle, but particularly in the RX 350. The V6 responds well to a light foot, and avoiding aggressive acceleration from a stop will conserve fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible.

Keep your tires properly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes.

Minimize idling time. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and excessive idling wastes fuel unnecessarily.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying extra cargo adds to the vehicle’s overall weight, which requires more energy to move. Remove any items that are not essential for daily use.

Consider using the RX 350’s “ECO” driving mode. This mode adjusts the throttle response and shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency. While it may slightly reduce performance, it can help improve overall MPG without drastically altering the driving experience. You can find all all Lexus fuel economy data to decide which model fits your lifestyle. You cal also analyze RX MPG across all years to compare different model years.