Chevy Malibu Gas Tank Size: Fuel Space Explored

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cartoon image of a chevy malibu driving in the city

The Chevy Malibu has been a staple of mid-sized sedans for daily commuters for decades. Everything from fine trim levels to fuel economy has made this the go-to car for many city drivers, but what is the Chevy Malibu’s gas tank size?

For the last several years, the Chevy Malibu has had a gas tank size of 15.8 gallons across all of it’s trim levels.

But, this fuel tank size hasn’t been the standard for the Malibu since its introduction in the 1960’s. No matter if you’re looking for a newer model or one with a few miles on it to become your commuting vehicle, this article will let you know what size tank you’re getting into!

Gas Tank Capacity by Model Year

The Chevrolet Malibu, a popular mid-size car, has seen various changes in its gas tank size over the years. Here’s a look at the recent model years:

  • 2023-2024 Models: The latest models of the Chevy Malibu typically feature a gas tank capacity of approximately 15.8 gallons. This size is consistent across various trims such as the LS, RS, LT, and Premier.
  • 2020-2022 Models: These models also have a tank size of around 15.8 gallons. Minor variations may exist depending on specific features or optional packages.

Fuel Tank Size by Year

Here’s a detailed table showcasing the Chevy Malibu’s fuel tank sizes over recent years:

YearModel VariationsTank Capacity (gallons)
2024LS, RS, LT, Premier15.8
2023LS, RS, LT, Premier15.8
2022LS, RS, LT, Premier15.8
2021LS, RS, LT, Premier15.8
2020LS, RS, LT, Premier15.8
Chevy Malibu gas tank sizes from 2020-2024

Fuel Efficiency and Range

The Chevy Malibu’s fuel efficiency varies slightly between model variations. For instance:

  • 2023-2024 Models: These models, regardless of the variation, offer an average fuel economy of around 29 MPG combined. With a 15.8-gallon tank, this translates to a potential range of approximately 458 miles per tank.
  • 2020-2022 Models: Similar fuel efficiency to the newer models, averaging about 29 MPG combined, yielding a similar range.
cartoon image of a chevy malibu driving  away from the city

Older Models

2010-2019

The evolution of the Malibu’s fuel tank sizes and its emphasis on fuel efficiency mirror the automotive industry’s shift towards more environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient vehicles.

YearModelsTank Capacity (gallons)
2019L, LS, RS, LT, Hybrid, Premier15.8
2018L, LS, LT, Hybrid, Premier15.8
2017L, LS, LT, Hybrid, Premier15.8
2016L, LS, LT, Hybrid, Premier15.8
2015LS, LT, LTZ, Eco, Hybrid18.5 (Eco, Hybrid: 15.8)
2014LS, LT, LTZ, Eco, Hybrid18.5 (Eco, Hybrid: 15.8)
2013LS, LT, LTZ, Eco, Hybrid18.5 (Eco, Hybrid: 15.8)
2012LS, LT, LTZ, Eco18.5 (Eco: 15.8)
2011LS, LT, LTZ, Eco16.4 (Eco: 15.8)
2010LS, LT, LTZ16.4
Chevy Malibu gas tank sizes from 2010-2019

The Chevy Malibu underwent notable changes in both tank size and fuel efficiency between 2010 and 2019. Here are some key observations:

  • 2010-2011: The Malibu models during these years featured a standard tank size of 16.4 gallons. The introduction of the Eco model in 2011 marked a shift towards more fuel-efficient vehicles, with the Eco variant having a slightly smaller tank of 15.8 gallons, optimized for better mileage.
  • 2012-2014: In this period, Chevrolet expanded the Malibu line with various trims, maintaining a larger 18.5-gallon tank for most models. However, the Eco version continued with a 15.8-gallon tank, balancing fuel capacity with efficiency.
  • 2015: This year was significant as all Malibu models, including the Eco and Hybrid, standardized on an 18.5-gallon tank, except for the Hybrid which stuck with 15.8 gallons.
  • 2016-2019: Starting from 2016, Chevrolet streamlined the Malibu series, standardizing a 15.8-gallon tank across all models, including the L, LS, LT, Hybrid, and Premier.

2000-2009

Throughout this decade, the gradual increase in tank size followed by the introduction of a hybrid model reflected a balancing act between the desire for longer range and the growing importance of fuel efficiency.

YearModelsTank Capacity (gallons)
2009Base, LS, LT, LTZ, Hybrid16.3
2008Base, LS, LT, LTZ, Hybrid16.3
2007Base, LS, LT, LTZ16.3
2006Base, LS, LT, LTZ16.3
2005Base, LS, LT16.3
2004Base, LS, LT16.3
2003Base, LS14.3
2002Base, LS14.3
2001Base, LS14.3
2000Base, LS14.3
Chevy Malibu gas tank sizes from 2000-2009

The Chevy Malibu’s journey through the first decade of the 21st century showcases a transition in terms of fuel tank capacity and fuel economy:

  • 2000-2002: These early years of the decade saw the Malibu with a relatively modest fuel tank size of 14.3 gallons. This capacity was adequate for the time, considering the average fuel economy and driving needs.
  • 2003-2007: A significant jump in tank size occurred in 2003, with the Malibu moving to a 16.3-gallon capacity. The larger tank size offered drivers the convenience of fewer stops for refueling, which was particularly appealing for longer journeys.
  • 2008-2009: These years maintained the 16.3-gallon tank size, and also introduced the Hybrid model. The Hybrid variant aimed to offer a more fuel-efficient option for environmentally conscious consumers.
cartoon image of a classic  chevy malibu at a parking lot

1990-1999

The 1990’s were a unique period for the Chevy Malibu, particularly because the Malibu name was temporarily retired after the 1983 model year and then revived in 1997.

YearModelsTank Capacity (gallons)
1999Base, LS15.2
1998Base, LS15.2
1997Base, LS15.2
1996Base, LS15.2
1990 – 1995Base, LSN/A
Chevy Malibu gas tank sizes from 1990-1999
  • 1990-1996: The Chevy Malibu was not in production during these years. Chevrolet focused on other models in its lineup, and the Malibu nameplate was not used.
  • 1997-1999: The Malibu returned in 1997 with a completely redesigned model that came equipped with a 15.2-gallon fuel tank.

During its return in the late ’90s, the Malibu was designed to be more fuel-efficient than its predecessors, reflecting the growing consumer awareness of fuel economy and environmental concerns.

The 15.2-gallon tank in the revived Malibu models provided a decent range that was suitable for both city commuting and longer highway travels. These models were well-received for their balance of size, efficiency, and practicality, setting the stage for the Malibu’s success in the following decades.

1980-1989

Throughout the decade, the Malibu maintained a consistent fuel tank size of 17.0 gallons across all its models.

YearModelsTank Capacity (gallons)
1989Base, LS17.0
1988Base, LS17.0
1987Base, LS17.0
1986Base, LS17.0
1985Base, LS17.0
1984Base, LS17.0
1983Base, LS17.0
1982Base, LS17.0
1981Base, LS17.0
1980Base, Sport17.0
Chevy Malibu gas tank sizes from 1980-1989

The 1980’s marked a period of consistency for the Chevy Malibu in terms of fuel tank size:

  • Generous Tank Size: The 17-gallon tank size was quite generous for the era, reflecting the less stringent fuel economy concerns of the 1980’s and the American preference for larger vehicles with longer driving ranges.
  • Fuel Economy Considerations: During the 1980’s, fuel economy was becoming a more significant consideration for car buyers, partly due to the oil crises of the previous decade.
  • Transition and Design Philosophy: This era’s Malibu catered to consumers looking for a straightforward, dependable vehicle without the need for frequent model updates or significant changes in specifications.

1970-1979

The 1970’s were an era of great change for the automotive industry, and the Chevy Malibu reflected some of these trends, although it remained quite consistent in terms of fuel tank size.

YearModelsTank Capacity (gallons)
1979Base, Sport Coupe, Sedan17.0
1978Base, Sport Coupe, Sedan17.0
1977Base, Sport Coupe, Sedan17.0
1976Base, Sport Coupe, Sedan17.0
1975Base, Sport Coupe, Sedan17.0
1974Base, Sport Coupe, Sedan17.0
1973Base, Sport Coupe, Sedan17.0
1972Base, Sport Coupe, Sedan17.0
1971Base, Sport Coupe, Sedan17.0
1970Base, Sport Coupe, Sedan17.0
Chevy Malibu gas tank sizes from 1970-1979
cartoon image of a classic  chevy malibu at a mall
  • Tank Size Consistency (1970-1979): Throughout the 1970’s, the Chevy Malibu maintained a consistent fuel tank capacity of 17 gallons across all its models.
  • Fuel Economy Focus: As the decade progressed, there was a gradual shift towards better fuel efficiency in vehicles. While the Malibu’s tank size did not change, Chevrolet likely made adjustments in other areas, such as engine performance and vehicle weight, to improve fuel efficiency.
  • Transition Towards Smaller Cars: The latter part of the 1970’s saw a general industry trend towards smaller, more fuel-efficient cars.

1964-1969

Throughout its early years, the Chevy Malibu maintained a consistent fuel tank capacity of 20 gallons. This relatively large tank size for a mid-size sedan was indicative of the automotive trends of the 1960’s, where fuel economy was a lesser concern compared to performance and style.

YearModelsTank Capacity (gallons)
1969Base, SS, Convertible20.0
1968Base, SS, Convertible20.0
1967Base, SS, Convertible20.0
1966Base, SS, Convertible20.0
1965Base, SS, Convertible20.0
1964Base, SS, Convertible20.0
Chevy Malibu gas tank sizes from 1964-1969
  • Fuel Economy Considerations: During this era, fuel was relatively inexpensive and abundant, leading to less emphasis on fuel economy.
  • Model Variations: The Malibu came in several variations, including the base model, the high-performance SS model, and the convertible. All these variants shared the same tank size, simplifying production and maintaining consistency in the lineup.
cartoon image of a chevy malibu driving in the city at sunset

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average fuel tank size of a Chevy Malibu?

The average fuel tank size of recent Chevy Malibu models is about 15.8 gallons.

How often should I refuel my Chevy Malibu?

Depending on your driving habits and model’s fuel efficiency, you might need to refuel every 400-450 miles.

Did older Chevy Malibus have larger fuel tanks?

Yes, models from the 1980s had larger tanks, averaging around 17.5 to 18 gallons.

How does tank size affect fuel efficiency?

While tank size itself doesn’t affect fuel efficiency, a larger tank means longer range before needing to refuel. Efficiency is more related to the engine and vehicle design.

Can I increase the fuel tank size of my Malibu?

Modifying the fuel tank size is not generally recommended due to safety, warranty, and regulatory reasons.

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