Lexus RX 450h
30 MPG The 2016 Lexus RX 450h is EPA-rated at 30 MPG combined (31 city / 30 highway). Over 15,000 miles a year that is about 500 gallons, $1600 a year in fuel, or $0.107 per mile at $3.20/gal.
Across its full 2010–2016 run it averages 29.3 MPG, essentially flat across 7 model years.
Running cost at different fuel prices and mileages
The figure everyone actually wants, and the one the EPA does not publish — because it depends on a fuel price no agency will commit to.
| Fuel price | Per mile | 10,000 mi/yr | 15,000 mi/yr | 20,000 mi/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2.50/gal | $0.083 | $833 | $1250 | $1667 |
| $3.00/gal | $0.100 | $1000 | $1500 | $2000 |
| $3.20/gal | $0.107 | $1067 | $1600 | $2133 |
| $3.50/gal | $0.117 | $1167 | $1750 | $2333 |
| $4.00/gal | $0.133 | $1333 | $2000 | $2667 |
| $4.50/gal | $0.150 | $1500 | $2250 | $3000 |
| $5.00/gal | $0.167 | $1667 | $2500 | $3333 |
Every model year
| Year | Combined | City | Highway | EPA fuel cost/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Trims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 30 MPG | 31 | 30 | $2550 | 297 | 1 |
| 2015 | 29 MPG | 31 | 28 | $2650 | 301 | 1 |
| 2014 | 29 MPG | 31 | 28 | $2650 | 301 | 1 |
| 2013 | 29 MPG | 31 | 28 | $2650 | 301 | 1 |
| 2012 | 29 MPG | 31 | 28 | $2650 | 306 | 1 |
| 2011 | 29 MPG | 31 | 28 | $2650 | 306 | 1 |
| 2010 | 30 MPG | 32 | 28 | $2550 | 296 | 1 |
Where a model year offered several engines or drivetrains, the figure is the average across all EPA-tested trims that year — the trim count is shown so you can see how much averaging is involved.
How it compares in its class
Among the 74 small sport utility vehicle 2wd models tracked here, the Lexus RX 450h ranks 21 on current figures, against a class average of 34.7 MPG.
Closest more-efficient alternatives in the same class: Chevrolet Trailblazer FWD (31), Volkswagen Taos (31), Nissan Rogue FWD (32), Nissan Rogue FWD SL/Platinum (32), Toyota Corolla Cross (32).
Tailpipe CO₂ is rated at 297 grams per mile, which works out to roughly 4.5 tonnes a year at 15,000 miles.
Questions
What MPG does the Lexus RX 450h get?
The 2016 Lexus RX 450h is rated at 30 MPG combined by the EPA — 31 city and 30 highway. Across all 7 model years in the database it averages 29.3 MPG, ranging from 29 to 30 depending on year and trim.
How much does a Lexus RX 450h cost in fuel per year?
At 30 MPG and 15,000 miles a year, it burns about 500 gallons — roughly $1600 a year with fuel at $3.20 a gallon, or $0.107 per mile. The EPA's own published annual figure for the 2016 model is $2550.
Has the Lexus RX 450h become more efficient over time?
Barely. It sits at 30 MPG today against 30 in 2010 — essentially flat across 7 model years, with efficiency gains offset by weight and power creep.
Is the Lexus RX 450h efficient for its class?
It ranks 21 of 74 in the Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD class on current figures, against a class average of 34.7 MPG. That is 4.7 worse than typical for the class.
EPA test figures from fueleconomy.gov. Cost per mile and annual fuel spend are computed at a reference price of $3.20 per gallon — use your own price. Estimates based on official test figures and average fuel prices. Real-world consumption varies with driving style, load, terrain and maintenance.