25 MPG combined makes the 2025 Lexus ES 350 an efficient choice for a full-size, front-wheel-drive luxury sedan still powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6. This isn’t a small car, nor is its engine built for outright frugality, yet Lexus has skillfully engineered a powertrain that delivers smooth, effortless power without penalizing its owners at the pump to an unreasonable degree. The ES 350 caters to professionals, empty-nesters, and those who prioritize quiet comfort, bulletproof reliability, and the quiet dignity of a well-engineered luxury sedan over outright sporty pretensions. For these buyers, 25 MPG isn’t just acceptable, it’s an efficient bonus layered onto an already valuable offering in the luxury space.

City and highway performance

The EPA rates the 2025 ES 350 at 22 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway, figures that accurately reflect the vehicle’s driving dynamics and intended use. The 3.5L 6-cylinder engine, paired with its smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission, excels in sustained highway cruising. The 32 MPG highway number shows the powertrain’s efficiency at steady speeds, where the transmission can settle into taller gears and the V6 operates in its most economical RPM range. Long road trips are where the ES 350 truly shines, not just for its fuel economy, but for its exceptional ride quality, hushed cabin, and supportive seating. City driving, with its stop-and-go nature, naturally brings down the average, but 22 MPG is still competitive for a vehicle of this size and power. Lexus engineers have clearly prioritized a broad, accessible powerband that doesn’t demand constant high revs, further contributing to its respectable urban efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $1,750 for the 2025 Lexus ES 350. This figure is calculated based on an assumption of 15,000 miles driven per year, split between city and highway conditions, and using national average fuel prices. For many buyers, this figure represents a comfortable and predictable expense within their budget, particularly when considering the ES 350’s luxury positioning and overall cost of ownership. It’s a direct reflection of the 25 MPG combined rating, factoring in the blend of urban and open-road driving. This transparent estimate helps potential owners understand the real-world financial commitment associated with fueling their ES 350, providing a clear benchmark against other vehicles in its class, or even against models with varying powertrains within the Lexus lineup itself.

Real-world expectations

Owners of the 2025 ES 350 should find its real-world fuel economy closely aligns with the EPA estimates, particularly if their driving habits match the EPA’s test cycles. Those with a heavy highway commute will likely see numbers at, or even slightly above, the 32 MPG highway rating, especially when employing cruise control and maintaining consistent speeds. Conversely, drivers who spend the majority of their time in congested urban environments, or those who frequently engage the engine’s ample power with enthusiastic acceleration, may see their city MPG dip slightly below 22 MPG. The ES 350’s character, however, naturally encourages a smooth, unhurried driving style that is conducive to good fuel economy. Its refined ride and quiet cabin aren’t designed for aggressive canyon carving, meaning most owners will drive it in a manner that maximizes efficiency without conscious effort. For a deeper dive into how Lexus models perform, review all Lexus fuel economy data.

How it compares

When stacked against its direct competitors, the 2025 Lexus ES 350 retains a strong position for fuel economy, particularly given its V6 engine. The Acura TLX 3.5L V6, for instance, typically achieves around 23 MPG combined, often falling short of the ES 350’s 25 MPG. Even some turbocharged four-cylinder rivals struggle to match the ES 350’s effortless efficiency in certain scenarios. Consider the Genesis G80 2.5T, which manages around 24 MPG combined, but does so with a smaller engine that needs to work harder to deliver similar propulsion. Opting for a Mercedes-Benz E 350 (a 2.0L turbo-four) will get you closer, often around 25-26 MPG combined, but at a significantly higher purchase price and with a different engine character. The ES 350’s value is strengthened when its strong V6 fuel economy is considered alongside its legendary reliability and lower projected maintenance costs. For those interested in historical performance, you can also explore ES MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintaining proper tire pressure is one of the easiest and most effective ways to ensure your ES 350 achieves its advertised fuel economy. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly, especially before long trips.

Smooth acceleration and braking significantly impact your ES 350’s efficiency, particularly in city driving. The V6’s ample torque means you don’t need to rev it high to get up to speed; gentle throttle inputs allow the transmission to shift earlier and keep engine RPMs lower.

Use the ES 350’s Eco driving mode. While it won’t transform the car into a hybrid, this mode subtly adjusts throttle response and transmission shift points to prioritize fuel savings, making it ideal for routine commuting and relaxed cruising.

Limit excessive idling, particularly during cold starts. While the ES 350 is a luxury car, letting it warm up for extended periods before driving simply wastes fuel. Modern engines are designed to be driven shortly after starting, allowing them to reach operating temperature more efficiently under load.

Plan your routes to avoid heavy traffic and unnecessary detours. Stop-and-go conditions are detrimental to fuel economy, so using navigation systems to find the most efficient path can make a noticeable difference in your average MPG.