21 MPG combined is a fuel economy figure unlikely to impress anyone shopping for a hybrid or EV. But for the 2021 Lexus LS 500 AWD with its 3.4L twin-turbo V6, it’s a reasonable price to pay for the vehicle’s unique blend of quiet comfort, effortless power, and understated luxury. The LS buyer prioritizes a cosseting ride, a quiet cabin, and the prestige that comes with the Lexus badge above all else. Fuel efficiency is a secondary consideration.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2021 Lexus LS 500 AWD break down to 17 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city MPG reflects the reality of stop-and-go traffic where the LS’s weight and non-hybrid powertrain affect fuel consumption. The highway figure, however, is more palatable, suggesting that long-distance cruises can be relatively efficient, especially when using cruise control. The 10-speed automatic transmission helps, allowing the engine to run at lower RPMs at higher speeds, conserving fuel. The LS 500 is designed to deliver smooth, refined power, not outright acceleration. A more aggressive driving style will inevitably lead to lower real-world MPG figures.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Lexus LS 500 AWD will be $2,750 per year. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. The actual cost will vary depending on individual driving habits, location, and fluctuations in gas prices. However, $2,750 provides a useful benchmark for LS 500 owners to estimate their fuel expenses. Drivers living in areas with higher fuel costs will likely exceed this figure, while those with shorter commutes may spend less.

Real-world expectations

While EPA estimates provide a standardized baseline, a vehicle’s real-world fuel economy depends on many factors. Traffic conditions, driving style, and even tire pressure can influence the MPG you ultimately achieve. Owners of the LS 500 AWD often report figures that align closely with the EPA’s combined estimate, although some have seen slightly lower numbers in primarily city driving. Consistent highway driving around 70 mph should yield results close to the EPA’s 27 MPG rating.

Remember, the LS 500 AWD’s turbocharged engine delivers strong performance, but it isn’t optimized for maximum fuel efficiency. Expect to use premium fuel, too, further increasing your running costs.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2021 Lexus LS 500 AWD’s fuel economy is decent but not class-leading. The BMW 740i xDrive boasts 25 MPG combined, offering performance and luxury, albeit with a different driving character. The Mercedes-Benz S500 4MATIC achieves around 24 MPG combined. The Audi A8, another strong contender, lands in a similar range, again around 23-24 MPG combined. The Lexus LS Hybrid, on the other hand, delivers significantly better fuel economy, with an EPA combined rating of 25 MPG in its AWD guise, a worthwhile compromise for buyers seeking improved efficiency without sacrificing the LS’s core values. However, the hybrid model comes at a premium, representing a greater initial investment. Across LS MPG across all years, the numbers have remained relatively consistent, suggesting the current powertrain is fairly mature. Meanwhile, you can examine all Lexus fuel economy data to see how the LS compares to the rest of the Lexus range.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to maximizing fuel efficiency in the LS 500 AWD. Avoid aggressive starts and hard braking, allowing the car to accelerate smoothly. The twin-turbo V6 delivers ample power, but using it carefully will have a positive impact on your fuel consumption.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy.

Minimize idling. If you anticipate a stop of more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance, significantly lowering your MPG. While in Drive, the LS 500 will also burn more fuel than in Park or Neutral.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed helps optimize fuel efficiency. Cruise control minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, contributing to better MPG over long distances.

Remove unnecessary weight from the vehicle. Excess weight increases fuel consumption. Remove any items you don’t need from the trunk and passenger compartment to lighten the load on the engine. Even small reductions in weight can incrementally improve fuel economy.