23 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but it’s the reality of owning the 2024 Lexus RC 350. This stylish coupe isn’t about maximizing every last drop of gasoline; it’s about delivering a refined driving experience and making a statement. The RC 350 appeals to a specific buyer: someone who prioritizes luxury, comfort, and distinctive design over outright efficiency. They appreciate the smooth power delivery of the V6 engine and are willing to accept a middling fuel economy rating as the price of admission.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the RC 350 at 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic where the engine spends more time idling or accelerating from a standstill. The highway number is more respectable, demonstrating that the RC 350 can achieve reasonable fuel economy on longer cruises. However, don’t expect to consistently hit 28 MPG if you drive aggressively. The eight-speed automatic transmission optimizes efficiency, but the 3.5L V6 needs fuel to deliver its signature performance.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2024 Lexus RC 350 is $2,500. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local gas prices. Expect to exceed this estimate if you primarily drive in the city or have a lead foot. If you do mostly highway driving and practice efficient driving habits, you might spend less.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Some RC 350 owners report seeing numbers that are close to the EPA estimates. Others experience slightly lower figures, particularly in urban environments. The responsiveness, not the fuel efficiency, is important to the RC 350. The engine encourages aggressive acceleration, which naturally impacts MPG. Expect your MPG to improve during highway driving where you maintain constant speeds. Remember to consult resources like FuelEconomyHub for RC MPG across all years to get a clearer picture.

How it compares

The RC 350’s fuel economy lands it in the middle of the pack when compared to its competitors. The BMW 430i Coupe achieves a combined 28 MPG with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Some buyers find the six-cylinder engine in the RC 350 worth the tradeoff. The Infiniti Q60 gets around 22 MPG combined. The RC 350 is slightly more efficient, but not by a significant margin. Someone in the market for a luxury coupe is likely cross-shopping these models, and fuel economy is one factor among several, including styling, performance, and brand reputation. While researching, don’t forget you can find all Lexus fuel economy data right here at FuelEconomyHub.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Smooth and steady wins the race, especially when it comes to fuel economy in the RC 350. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, which consume more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible. This will minimize the amount of fuel wasted during sudden bursts of acceleration.

Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a constant speed and optimize fuel efficiency. Cruise control can prevent unintentional speeding and help you avoid sudden changes in throttle position, leading to better MPG results. Keep in mind situations where cruise control might hurt fuel economy, such as steep inclines where the transmission downshifts frequently.

Regular maintenance is key to optimizing fuel economy. Ensure that your tires are properly inflated and that your engine is running smoothly. A well-maintained engine is more efficient and will burn less fuel. Consult the owner’s manual for the recommended tire pressure and service intervals.

Reduce unnecessary weight in your vehicle. Extra cargo adds to the overall weight of the car, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Remove any items from your trunk or cabin that you don’t need on a regular basis. Even small weight reductions can add up to noticeable fuel savings over time.