The Chevrolet Malibu has long been a staple in the mid-size sedan segment, and the 2017 model year represents a significant point in its lifecycle. Understanding the specifics of the 2017 Chevy Malibu gas tank size is essential for drivers who plan long road trips or need to maximize their time between fill-ups. This detailed overview provides the exact fuel capacity and explores how it impacts the vehicle's real-world driving range.
2017 Malibu Fuel Tank Capacity Specifications
For the 2017 model year, Chevrolet equipped the Malibu with a fuel tank designed to balance efficiency with practicality. The official specifications indicate that the standard fuel tank capacity for the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu is 15.8 gallons. This capacity is consistent across the majority of trims, including the L, LS, LT, and Premier variants, ensuring that drivers have a consistent baseline for their fueling needs regardless of the specific trim level they choose.
How the 15.8-Gallon Tank Affects Driving Range
While knowing the physical size of the tank is important, understanding the resulting driving range is crucial for planning. The 2017 Malibu’s fuel economy varies depending on the engine and transmission, but the large 15.8-gallon tank provides a significant buffer. With a combined fuel economy estimate of approximately 29 to 30 MPG for the base models, drivers can expect a total range of roughly 450 to 470 miles on a full tank. This extended range makes the Malibu a strong contender for long-distance travel without the need for frequent stops.
EPA Estimated Range Calculations
City Driving: Approximately 312 miles (based on 28 MPG city average).
Highway Driving: Approximately 450 miles (based on 30 MPG highway average).
Combined Driving: Roughly 442 miles (based on 29 MPG combined average).
Factors That Influence Actual Fuel Capacity
It is important to note that the 15.8-gallon rating is the designed total capacity, but the usable fuel volume may differ slightly. Gas pumps are required by law to stop automatically when the tank reaches a safe level to prevent overflow and vapor lock. This safety margin means that the fuel gauge often reads "Empty" with approximately 1 to 2 gallons of usable fuel remaining in the tank. Consequently, while the tank can physically hold 15.8 gallons, the amount of fuel you can safely add until the pump stops is usually closer to 14 to 14.5 gallons.
Comparison to Previous Generations
When evaluating the 2017 model, it is helpful to compare it to its predecessor. The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu featured a slightly smaller fuel tank with a capacity of 15.6 gallons. The increase to 15.8 gallons in the 2017 model, while seemingly minor, represents a slight enhancement in range capability. This extra 0.2 gallons contributes to a few additional miles of travel, reinforcing the Malibu's position as a practical choice for commuters and travelers alike who value every bit of range they can get.
Refueling Tips and Best Practices
To get the most out of the 15.8-gallon tank, drivers should adopt efficient refueling habits. It is generally recommended to fill up when the fuel level reaches a quarter tank to maintain a consistent fuel supply and protect the fuel pump. When using the E85 flex-fuel option available in some regions, remember that the energy content is lower, which will reduce the effective miles per gallon despite the tank size remaining the same. Planning routes with reliable gas stations is always advisable, especially in rural areas where the 15.8-gallon range might be tested.
