22 MPG combined from the 2022 Lexus IS 300 AWD with the 3.5L V6 isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards. This isn’t a Prius, and Lexus isn’t trying to fool anyone into thinking it is. This car is designed for a very specific buyer: one who prioritizes all-weather confidence and a smooth, naturally aspirated engine note over squeezing every last mile from a gallon of premium fuel. It’s a calculated trade-off for driving enjoyment and peace of mind. After all, those who want all Lexus fuel economy data know that Lexus offers plenty of hybrid options for maximizing fuel economy.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the IS 300 AWD with the V6 reflect its real-world behavior. The 19 MPG city figure is a consequence of the engine needing to work to get the heavy IS 300 moving from a standstill. The six-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, isn’t optimized for maximum efficiency like the eight- or ten-speed units found in some competitors. Out on the open road, the 26 MPG highway rating is respectable, but still lags behind competitors who have embraced turbocharging and more advanced transmissions. Again, this is the cost of the naturally aspirated V6, and for some buyers, the linear power delivery and predictable throttle response are worth more than a few extra MPGs. This is especially true for those who frequently drive in challenging weather conditions; the AWD system adds weight and complexity, further impacting fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Lexus IS 300 AWD 3.5L V6 at $2,650. 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, using current national average fuel prices. Keep in mind this IS 300 requires premium fuel, which is factored into that annual cost. It’s a hefty sum, and one that prospective buyers should carefully consider if fuel economy is a major concern. The IS MPG across all years shows some variation depending on the powertrain, but you’ll still be burning more fuel than more efficient competitors.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, your real-world fuel economy will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you typically drive on, and even the weather conditions. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and prolonged idling will all negatively impact your MPG. If you live in an area with frequent stop-and-go traffic, expect your city MPG to be closer to the 17-18 MPG range. Conversely, if you primarily drive on the highway at a steady speed, you might see slightly better than the EPA’s 26 MPG estimate. It’s important to monitor your fuel economy over time to get a more accurate picture of what you can expect in your typical driving conditions.

How it compares

The Lexus IS 300 AWD’s fuel economy lands it mid-pack within its competitive set. The BMW 330i xDrive, for example, achieves a combined 28 MPG with its turbocharged four-cylinder, a significant advantage. Even the more powerful M340i xDrive, with its turbocharged six-cylinder, manages 26 MPG combined, matching the IS 300’s highway number. The Acura TLX SH-AWD with the turbocharged 2.0L fares similarly well at 24 MPG combined. The Lexus might appeal more to those who dislike the turbo lag that these cars demonstrate to some degree and who prioritize the linearity only a naturally aspirated engine can provide, regardless of the slightly worse fuel economy. The Infiniti Q50 with all-wheel drive and the base 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 gets 22 MPG combined as well, making it an almost fuel economy equivalent option.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The IS 300’s V6 is responsive, but every sudden burst of power comes at the expense of fuel economy. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a smooth, consistent speed whenever possible. Use a light foot on the accelerator and coast when appropriate.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. A few extra PSI can make a noticeable difference over time.

Minimize idling. Letting your engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so you won’t be causing additional wear and tear by turning it off and on frequently.

Consider using the “Normal” or “Eco” driving mode. These modes remap the throttle response and shift points to prioritize fuel economy over performance. While you might sacrifice some responsiveness, you’ll see an improvement in your MPG, particularly in city driving.

Keep your vehicle properly maintained. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements, will ensure that your engine is running efficiently. A well-maintained engine burns fuel more cleanly and efficiently, which translates to better fuel economy.