24 MPG combined puts the 2025 Lexus NX 350 AWD F Sport 2.4L 4-cyl in the territory of premium compact SUVs that prioritize accessible luxury, strong performance, and all-weather capability over outright hyper-efficiency. This isn’t a vehicle optimized for minimal fuel consumption; instead, its powertrain delivers a responsive, refined driving experience befitting the Lexus badge to drivers who appreciate that balance and are willing to accept the associated running costs. It’s for the urban professional or the small, active family who values a comfortable, well-appointed cabin, sharp design, and the peace of mind that comes with Lexus reliability and all-wheel drive traction.

City and highway performance

The EPA’s breakdown shows the 2025 NX 350 AWD F Sport gets 21 MPG in city driving and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure, at 21 MPG, is an honest reflection of a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine in a 4,000-pound luxury SUV navigating stop-and-go traffic. It’s competitive within its segment, aligning with expectations for a vehicle that can accelerate authoritatively when needed. The automatic (S8) transmission, a well-calibrated unit, works diligently to keep the engine in its most efficient range, though urban driving increases consumption. Highway driving, however, where the engine can settle into a groove, unlocks a more impressive 28 MPG. This figure demonstrates the efficiency gains of modern powertrains at cruising speeds, where the F Sport’s aerodynamically tuned bodywork and transmission management play their part. For those who frequently embark on longer journeys, 28 MPG means fewer stops at the pump compared to some less refined competitors, enhancing the luxury travel experience without constant interruption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,400 for the 2025 Lexus NX 350 AWD F Sport 2.4L 4-cyl. This specific figure is based on assumptions of driving 15,000 miles per year, split between city and highway driving, using the national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. It serves as a valuable benchmark for budgeting and understanding the ongoing expense of ownership. For a buyer considering a premium compact SUV, $2,400 per year is an acceptable operational cost, reflecting the vehicle’s segment and performance characteristics. This is a demographic that typically prioritizes attributes such as comfort, technology, safety, and brand prestige, and views this level of fuel expenditure as a reasonable trade-off for the package the NX 350 offers. It’s not an economy car, nor does it pretend to be one; it’s a luxury vehicle with luxury aspirations, and its running costs reflect that.

Real-world expectations

In the real world, owners of the 2025 Lexus NX 350 AWD F Sport will likely find the EPA’s numbers to be a fair representation, though individual driving habits and environmental factors always play a significant role. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, or consistent use of the turbocharger for spirited driving will naturally see figures dip closer to the 21 MPG city rating, or even below. Conversely, a disciplined driver with a gentle foot and a regular highway commute might occasionally exceed the 28 MPG highway estimate. The F Sport trim, with its performance-oriented aesthetic and firmer suspension, might subconsciously encourage a more enthusiastic driving style, which could subtly impact fuel consumption. Nevertheless, the all-wheel-drive system, while providing exceptional grip and stability, introduces a marginal efficiency penalty compared to a front-wheel-drive equivalent, something fully anticipated by Lexus buyers. Overall, the NX 350’s fuel economy is a known quantity for its target audience; it meets the expectations of a luxury compact SUV that blends sportiness with practicality.

How it compares

When placed alongside its key competitors, the 2025 Lexus NX 350 AWD F Sport’s 24 MPG combined rating holds its own, often demonstrating a middle ground. Consider the Audi Q5 45 TFSI quattro, which typically returns around 26 MPG combined. While slightly more efficient, the Q5’s driving dynamics are distinct, appealing to a different shade of luxury buyer. The BMW X3 xDrive30i often matches the Q5 at 24-25 MPG combined, putting it directly on par with the NX 350. However, the X3 tends to lean more into a sporty, driver-focused experience, while the NX emphasizes refined comfort and a famously quiet cabin. Looking at a segment leader like the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC, you’ll see figures around 25-26 MPG combined, again, a slight edge over the NX, but often accompanied by a higher purchase price or different standard feature set. For those considering all Lexus fuel economy data, the NX’s hybrid counterparts offer significantly higher efficiency, like the NX 350h or NX 450h+, but come with a different price point and powertrain feel. The NX 350 AWD F Sport appeals to the buyer who still prefers a traditional gasoline engine for its immediate, linear power delivery and perhaps a simpler powertrain architecture. For a look at the model’s fuel figures across different years and trims, NX MPG across all years is an excellent resource.

Tips to maximize efficiency

To get the most out of your NX 350’s fuel economy, pay attention to tire pressure. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, which can noticeably improve MPG, especially on longer highway drives. Check them monthly, as temperature fluctuations can cause significant changes.

Use the Eco driving mode. While the F Sport encourages spirited driving, the Eco mode recalibrates throttle response and transmission shift points to prioritize fuel conservation, making a tangible difference in city driving. It smooths out accelerations and minimizes aggressive downshifts.

Practice smooth acceleration and braking. Rapid starts and sudden stops are major fuel guzzlers, particularly in a turbocharged vehicle. Anticipate traffic and aim for a consistent, gentle throttle input and gradual deceleration to maximize efficiency and reduce wear on components.

Lighten the load. Remove any unnecessary heavy items from the trunk or cabin. While a small amount, extra weight requires the engine to work harder, consuming more fuel over time. Remove roof racks or cargo carriers when not in use, as they significantly increase aerodynamic drag.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed minimizes throttle adjustments that waste fuel. Modern adaptive cruise control systems in the NX 350 are particularly effective at maintaining optimal speed and distance without excessive acceleration or braking.