The 2022 Lexus LX 600 achieves 19 MPG combined, a figure that some might find surprising, but is generally accepted by its target buyers. The LX 600 isn’t a fuel-sipping hybrid. It’s a body-on-frame SUV that prioritizes strength, towing, and all-terrain capability. Its customers value dependability and off-road ability and understand these come with a fuel consumption cost. They are buying a legend, a Land Cruiser variant, and for them, fuel economy is less important.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the LX 600 at 17 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect driving a large, heavy vehicle with a turbocharged engine. Stop-and-go city driving increases fuel consumption because the engine works harder to overcome inertia. Highway cruising is slightly better because of the consistent speed, though the LX 600’s weight and less aerodynamic shape still affect efficiency. The ten-speed automatic transmission helps set engine speed for each driving situation, but physics limit what the SUV can achieve when moving 6,000 pounds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Lexus LX 600 is $3,050. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Individual fuel costs will change based on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the gasoline grade used. Still, the $3,050 figure is a standard for comparing fuel expenses across vehicles. LX 600 owners typically focus on the overall cost of ownership, understanding that fuel is one component they are ready to pay.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides an estimate, real-world fuel economy varies. Owners should expect changes based on driving style, terrain, and load. Aggressive acceleration, frequent towing, or driving in hilly areas will likely lower MPG. However, gentle driving on flat highways might produce better results. Remember the LX 600’s turbocharged engine responds to driving habits, and smooth throttle inputs will improve fuel efficiency, even if only a little.

How it compares

Among full-size luxury SUVs with off-road capability, the LX 600’s fuel economy is expected. The Cadillac Escalade, with its 6.2L V8, gets about 16 MPG city and 21 MPG highway. The Land Rover Range Rover, depending on the engine, gets around 18 MPG combined. Even the Infiniti QX80, sometimes seen as a cheaper option, only achieves 14 MPG city and 20 MPG highway. For buyers of the LX 600, fuel economy is less important than long-term reliability and resale value, where Lexus does well. See all Lexus fuel economy data for a wider look, and see LX MPG across all years to see how this model’s efficiency has changed.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Proper maintenance of the LX 600 is essential for optimizing fuel economy. Regular tire pressure checks and following the manufacturer’s service schedule make sure the engine and drivetrain work efficiently. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which hurts MPG.

Avoid aggressive driving like hard acceleration and braking. The LX 600 responds well to smooth inputs, and seeing traffic ahead allows for gradual deceleration. Using adaptive cruise control on the highway can help maintain a consistent speed, which helps to improve fuel efficiency.

Keep weight down. Remove cargo or equipment that isn’t needed, as extra weight increases fuel consumption. This is especially true for owners who use their LX 600 for commuting and weekend trips.

Use the vehicle’s drive mode selector to improve fuel efficiency. If your LX 600 has an “Eco” mode, use it in normal driving. This mode adjusts throttle response and transmission mapping to prioritize fuel savings. However, remember the LX is mainly for rugged capability, and Eco mode may reduce performance in some cases.