How big is a Subaru Outback tank?
The current Subaru Outback uses an 18.5-gallon (70-liter) fuel tank in most recent models, a capacity that has remained consistent across these generations. This article breaks down the tank size across generations and explains how fuel economy affects driving range.
Current generation fuel capacity
For modern Outbacks built from roughly the mid-2010s through today, the standard fuel tank is 18.5 gallons (70 liters). This has been the baseline across multiple trims and powertrains, though specific numbers can vary by market or very early/late production runs. When planning trips, this capacity is the starting point for estimating range based on how you drive.
Range implications
How far you can travel on a full tank depends primarily on the engine, drivetrain, and driving conditions. With a combined fuel economy around the high 20s miles per gallon, a full 18.5-gallon tank can yield roughly 500–600 miles (approximately 800–970 kilometers) of range under typical highway conditions. City driving or aggressive acceleration can reduce that distance, while highway cruising tends to maximize it.
Variations by older generations
Earlier Subaru Outback generations did not always use the exact same tank size as current models. While many modern Outbacks share the 18.5-gallon figure, some older iterations featured smaller or differently configured tanks. If you own or are researching a vintage model, verify the fuel capacity from the exact model year’s specifications or the owner's manual.
How to verify your specific vehicle
To confirm your exact tank size for a given Outback, consult authoritative sources and your vehicle documents:
- Owner's manual: Look for the fuel system specifications section.
- Driver's door placard: Some models list the fuel capacity on the door jamb.
- Official Subaru spec sheets: Subaru's website or dealership PDFs commonly show fuel capacity by model year and trim.
Verifying the exact tank size helps with trip planning and fuel stops, especially if you are evaluating a used vehicle or a rare market variant.
Practical takeaways
For most drivers, a full tank on a current Outback covers roughly 500–600 miles depending on engine choice, drivetrain, and driving style. If you’re calculating ranges for trips, combine the 18.5-gallon capacity with your real-world mpg to estimate how far you’ll get between fill-ups.
Summary
The Subaru Outback’s fuel tank capacity is 18.5 gallons (70 liters) for the current and recent generations, providing an estimated range of about 500–600 miles under typical conditions. For older models or specialty markets, tank sizes may differ, so always check the model-year-specific specifications if precision is required. Overall, the 18.5-gallon tank remains a stable figure that informs trip planning and fuel budgeting for most Outback owners.
