22 MPG combined might initially raise an eyebrow for some considering the 2025 Lexus IS 350 AWD, yet for its intended buyer, it’s a perfectly acceptable, even expected, figure. This isn’t a stripped-down commuter car. This is a compact luxury sport sedan, built to coddle occupants while delivering an engaging drive, especially in regions demanding all-wheel drive. The naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6, while a familiar sight, prioritizes smooth power delivery and Lexus’s legendary reliability over outright hybrid-level efficiency. Those who choose the IS 350 AWD are seeking a specific blend of refined performance, unwavering quality, and the security of all-wheel traction, understanding that strong engineering inherently comes with certain fuel consumption characteristics. They prioritize the visceral connection to a responsive, non-turbocharged engine and a chassis tuned for confident handling, values that rarely align with extreme frugality at the pump.

City and highway performance

Breaking down the 22 MPG combined figure reveals a predictable split: 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city number, at 19 MPG, is a direct consequence of the 3.5-liter V6 and the automatic transmission’s programming. In stop-and-go traffic, the engine’s displacement and the vehicle’s weight, especially with the added AWD components, mean more fuel is consumed during acceleration from a standstill. The powertrain, while responsive, isn’t optimized for hyper-efficient urban crawling. However, it delivers crisp acceleration when needed, which is a key part of the IS 350’s appeal. On the highway, the 26 MPG figure is commendable for a non-turbocharged V6 of this size and power. The vehicle settles into a comfortable cruise, and the automatic transmission, though it’s a conventional torque converter unit and not a more modern 8-speed or a CVT, effectively keeps RPMs low when cruising, allowing the engine to operate within its more efficient range. This highway performance confirms that while not ground-breaking, the IS 350 AWD is perfectly capable of long-distance comfortable cruising without excessive fuel stops, directly aligning with the demands of its target demographic who value a refined highway experience alongside city maneuverability.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,650 for the 2025 Lexus IS 350 AWD. This figure is calculated based on an assumption of 15,000 miles driven per year, split between 45% highway and 55% city driving, and uses national average fuel prices. For the IS 350 AWD buyer, this annual cost is a measurable expense, certainly higher than what one might encounter with a smaller, more fuel-efficient sedan or a hybrid. However, it’s typically absorbed within a broader budget for luxury vehicle ownership. Owners of the IS 350 AWD understand that premium fuel, which the naturally aspirated V6 prefers for optimal performance and longevity, contributes to this cost. They are investing in a vehicle known for its exceptional reliability, low maintenance costs compared to some European rivals, and a driving experience that justifies the fuel expenditure. This $2,650 reflects the trade-off for a well-engineered, engaging, and dependable compact luxury sport sedan with the added grip of all-wheel drive.

Real-world expectations

In real-world driving, owners of the 2025 Lexus IS 350 AWD will find the EPA estimates to be quite achievable, sometimes even exceeded, depending on their driving style and conditions. The IS 350 isn’t a vehicle that suffers from significant discrepancies between EPA ratings and actual performance. Enthusiastic drivers who frequently exploit the V6’s power band will naturally see their city MPG drop closer to the lower teens, while those with a lighter foot and more consistent highway commutes might consistently hit or even slightly surpass the 26 MPG highway rating. The vehicle’s character encourages smooth inputs, which inherently aids fuel economy. Aggressive acceleration and braking cycles, typical of heavy city traffic or spirited driving on country roads, will be the primary detractors from optimal efficiency. However, the consistent nature of the V6 means there are fewer complex systems to drastically alter real-world fuel consumption compared to highly boosted small engines or plug-in hybrids. For detailed information on IS MPG across all years, our database provides historical data.

How it compares

When stacked against its primary competitors, the 2025 Lexus IS 350 AWD’s fuel economy numbers offer a distinct perspective. The BMW 330i xDrive, for example, with its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, achieves a more frugal 28 MPG combined (23 city/33 highway). The Audi A4 45 TFSI quattro, also with a turbocharged 2.0-liter, is similarly efficient, often rated around 27 MPG combined (24 city/31 highway). The Genesis G70 3.3T AWD, a closer analogue in terms of engine size and performance with its twin-turbo V6, typically returns around 20 MPG combined (17 city/25 highway), placing it slightly behind the IS 350. This comparison highlights a significant point: the IS 350’s naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 prioritizes linear power delivery and a distinct engine note, attributes that come with a slight efficiency penalty compared to smaller, turbocharged powertrains. However, compared to similarly powerful V6 offerings like the G70, the IS 350 holds its own. Buyers attracted to the IS 350 often value the proven reliability and immediate throttle response of its V6 over the marginally better fuel economy of its smaller-engined rivals. They are making a conscious choice for a specific type of driving experience, accepting a few extra dollars at the pump in exchange. For more data, review all Lexus fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintaining a smooth driving style is one of the most effective ways to improve fuel economy in the IS 350 AWD. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, allowing the vehicle to build momentum gradually and coast to stops when safe. This approach minimizes the engine’s time spent in its less efficient, higher-RPM ranges.

Regular maintenance is crucial for optimal fuel economy. Ensure tires are properly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, and adhere to the scheduled service intervals for oil changes and air filter replacements. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, directly translating to better MPG.

Use the IS 350’s drive modes intelligently. While Sport mode enhances responsiveness, Eco mode specifically retunes throttle response and transmission shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency. For everyday commuting, especially in city driving, Eco mode can yield noticeable improvements in MPG.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the vehicle and avoid excessive idling. Every extra pound the car has to move requires more fuel, and leaving the engine running while stationary consumes fuel without covering any distance. Plan your routes to avoid traffic congestion when possible, which helps maintain consistent speeds.

Consider the cumulative effect of small changes. Combining smooth driving with proper maintenance and intelligent use of drive modes can collectively push your real-world fuel economy closer to, or even above, the EPA estimates. It’s about being mindful of how you interact with the vehicle’s capable powertrain.