How Many Miles Is a Quarter Tank of Gas?

There are few things more enjoyable than zooming down the highway in a car, but something that can ruin the part is seeing your car low on gas. Imagine needing to drive 50 more miles to the next gas station while you only have about a quarter-tank of gas left. Will you make it, or does someone need to get out and push?

Generally, a quarter tank of gas is enough to cover a distance of between 100 and 200 miles. However, it ultimately depends on the type of car you’re driving, its fuel tank capacity, and your driving behavior.

In this guide, we’re going discuss what factors contribute to fuel economy, general mileage estimates for different car types, and push your car closer to the 200-mile mark on a quarter tank of gasoline.

Why You Should Know About Your Car’s Mileage

Knowing your car’s mileage is like having a secret weapon in the battle against high gas prices. It’s your key to unlocking the mysteries of fuel efficiency and ensuring that you’re not caught off guard when you’re running low on gas.

Understanding how far you can travel on a quarter tank of gas can save you from embarrassing roadside breakdowns and keep you from feeling like a hapless victim of the gas pump. Plus, by taking steps to improve your car’s mileage, you’ll be doing your part to protect the environment and save money on gas.

What Factors Affect Mileage

Here are some of the most well-known factors that can affect your car’s mileage positively or negatively. There’s quite a lot to unpack, so buckle up!

1. Car make and model

Different car models have varying engine sizes, aerodynamics, and weight, which can affect how much fuel they consume. Generally, smaller and lighter cars tend to be more fuel-efficient than larger and heavier ones. Additionally, newer car models may be designed with more advanced fuel-saving technologies, which can improve their mileage.

2. Car condition

As a car ages, its engine and other components may wear down, reducing its overall performance and gas mileage. Regular maintenance and tune-ups can help mitigate this effect and keep the car running efficiently.

3. Driving habit

Aggressive driving, including speeding, rapid acceleration, and hard braking, can waste fuel and decrease mileage. Additionally, idling for extended periods (PDF) can also lower fuel economy.

4. Road conditions

Driving on hilly or mountainous roads can require more fuel than driving on flat terrain. Driving on rough or unpaved roads can reduce mileage by increasing drag and resistance.

5. Weather

Weather

Extremely hot or cold temperatures can reduce a car’s fuel economy by requiring more energy to power air conditioning or heating systems. Driving in strong winds or heavy rain can increase drag and resistance, which can decrease mileage.

6. Cargo weight

Carrying a heavy load can increase a vehicle’s weight, which requires more energy to accelerate and maintain speed, resulting in higher fuel consumption. The type of cargo being carried can also affect fuel economy, as some items may be more aerodynamic or create less drag than others.

7. Tires

Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial for both fuel efficiency and driving safety. Underinflated tires increase resistance and drag on the road, requiring more energy to move the car and decreasing fuel efficiency. This means that the engine needs to work harder, which can cause premature wear and tear on the vehicle, ultimately resulting in higher repair costs.

8. Air conditioning and other electronics

Air conditioning requires energy to cool the car’s interior, which can reduce mileage by increasing fuel consumption. Similarly, using other electronics such as the radio, headlights, and power windows can require additional energy and reduce fuel efficiency. With all that said, these features use a negligible amount of gasoline, which wouldn’t be so worrisome unless you’re low on fuel.

9. Fuel type

Some types of fuel, such as diesel or ethanol, may have different energy content than gasoline, which can impact fuel consumption and mileage. Additionally, using a lower grade of gasoline than recommended by the manufacturer can result in lower fuel economy.

Estimated Mileage Figures on a Quarter-Tank by Car Model

Below, I’ll provide estimates of how many miles some of the most common cars can travel on a quarter-tank of gas. If you don’t find your car in the following lists, check the owner’s manual (it’s still in your glove compartment, right?) and multiply its miles per gallon (MPG) figure by a quarter of its total tank capacity.

1. SUVs

Model Total Tank Size (gallons) Quarter Tank Size (gallons) Approximate Travel Distance (City/Highway)
Chevrolet Equinox 14.9 3.725 93.125/111.75 miles
Ford Escape 14.8 3.700 103.6/96.2 miles
Honda CR-V 14.0 3.500 98/119 miles
Hyundai Tucson 14.3 3.575 85.8/103.675 miles
Jeep Grand Cherokee 24.6 6.150 116.85/159.9 miles
Kia Sorento 17.7 4.425 97.35/119.475 miles
Mazda CX-5 15.3 3.825 99.45/107.1 miles
Nissan Rogue 14.5 3.625 108.75/134.125 miles
Subaru Outback 18.5 4.625 120.25/134.125 miles

Source: Edmunds.com

2. Sedans

Model Total Tank Size (gallons) Quarter Tank Size (gallons) Approximate Travel Distance (City/Highway)
Honda Accord 14.8 3.700 111/125.8 miles
Hyundai Sonata 15.9 3.975 178.875/202.725 miles
Kia Optima 18.5 4.625 111/161.875 miles
Mazda6 16.4 4.100 106.6/155.8 miles
Nissan Altima 16.2 4.050 105.3/145.8 miles
Subaru Legacy 18.5 4.625 124.875/161.875 miles
Toyota Camry 15.8 3.950 110.6/154.05 miles
Toyota Corolla 13.2 3.300 99/125.4 miles
Volkswagen Jetta 13.5 3.375 97.875/145.125 miles
Volvo S60 15.9 3.975 99.375/115.275 miles

Source: Edmunds.com

3. Hatchbacks

Model Total Tank Size (gallons) Quarter Tank Size (gallons) Approximate Travel Distance (City/Highway)
Audi A3 13.2 3.300 92.4/125.4 miles
Ford Fiesta 12.0 3.000 81/111 miles
Ford Focus 13.5 3.375 91.125/135 miles
Honda Civic 12.4 3.100 93/114.7 miles
Honda Fit 10.6 2.650 87.45/106 miles
Kia Ceed 11.9 2.975 68.425/89.25 miles
Kia Rio 11.9 2.975 98.175/121.975 miles
Mazda 3 13.2 3.300 85.8/118.8 miles
Subaru Impreza 13.2 3.300 79.2/102.3 miles
Volkswagen Golf 13.2 3.300 95.7/105.6 miles

Source: Edmunds.com

4. Pickups

Model Total Tank Size (gallons) Quarter Tank Size (gallons) Approximate Travel Distance (City/Highway)
Ford F-150 26.0 6.500 123.5/130 miles
Toyota Tacoma 21.1 5.275 100.225/121.325 miles
Chevrolet Silverado 24.0 6.000 114/132 miles
Ram 1500 26.0 6.500 123.5/156 miles
Toyota Tundra 22.5 5.625 101.25/112.5 miles
Ford Ranger 18.0 4.500 90/108 miles
Honda Ridgeline 19.5 4.875 87.75/117 miles
Toyota Hilux 22.5 5.625 95.625/129.375 miles
Nissan Titan 26.0 6.500 97.5/130 miles
GMC Sierra 1500 24.0 6.000 96/126 miles

Source: Edmunds.com