The Chevy Malibu is an outstanding car that combines reliability, style, and practicality. With its impressive fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and affordable maintenance costs, the Malibu is designed to meet the needs of modern families and individuals alike.
Whether you're commuting to work or setting off on a road trip, the Chevrolet Malibu delivers a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. This article explores its performance, safety, maintenance costs, and fuel economy to help you decide if it meets your needs in shopping for a good sedan.
Chevrolet Malibu Highlights
- The new Chevrolet Malibu is a reliable and affordable midsize sedan with solid performance, affordable cost of ownership and reasonable fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice.
- Compared to more expensive competitors like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, the Malibu offers a more affordable yet still highly valuable alternative.
- The new Chevrolet Malibu has a reliability score of 80/100 from J.D. Power and the 2022 model year has 82/100.
- The new Chevrolet Malibu has above 4/5 in in the Value, Comfort, and Styling categories in ratings by Kelly Blue Book.
- Total cost of ownership for a Chevrolet Malibu is around $43,694 for the first 5 years, all in.
First Impressions of the Chevrolet Malibu
The new Chevrolet Malibu, also known as the Chevy Malibu, offers practicality and style for individuals and families. Despite its age, the Malibu remains a worthwhile family sedan option. As a Chevy sedan, its design is both attractive and functional, featuring a sleek chassis that offers a comfortable and enjoyable ride.
Designed with families in mind, the Malibu offers a seamless blend of style and practicality. It provides ample spaciousness, reasonable fuel efficiency, and reliability without breaking the bank. Compared to more expensive competitors on the road beside you, like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, the Malibu offers a more affordable yet still highly valuable alternative, making it a good choice of car.
Let's get into the various facets of the Malibu, starting with our insights into its reliability, performance, safety, and more. Whether you're considering a new vehicle, an older Malibu model, or you're just curious about this Chevrolet sedan, we've gathered all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Chevrolet Malibu Reliability and Performance
When it comes to the Chevrolet Malibu, reliable is a term that often comes to mind. The recent models continue this tradition, offering a dependable ride that has earned it high marks from both J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.
With a reliability score of 80/100 from J.D. Power for recent years-and over 4/5 ratings in in the Value, Comfort, and Styling categories in ratings by Kelly Blue Book-the Malibu is considered a reliable choice in the midsize sedan segment.
Performance-wise, our sales advisors have gone into detail with us about how the Malibu provides a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. Its features include:
- Sleek chassis
- Responsive handling
- Smooth ride quality
- Spacious cabin for comfort
Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the Malibu is a joy to drive.
Performance and Handling
However, it's important to note that while the Malibu is reliable, its engine isn't bred for the highest 0 - 60 mph. The Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, two direct competitors, offer nice features and handling. But Malibu's fuel economy is competitive, providing a good balance between turbocharged performance and efficiency.
In terms of affordability, the Malibu stands out. With a starting price of just over $28,000 and reaching up to $32,595, it offers a range of features that make it a great value for its price. This affordability, combined with its reliability and comfortable ride, makes the Chevrolet Malibu a strong contender in the midsize sedan market.
Maintenance Costs
Owning a car isn't just about the initial purchase price; maintenance costs play a significant role in the value you get for it. The Chevrolet Malibu shines in this area, with an annual maintenance cost of around a $532 Annual Repair Cost on average according to RepairPal. This type of repair budget is relatively low, making it an economical choice for money-conscious buyers.
Over the first 5 years, the maintenance expenses for a newer Chevrolet Malibu Sedan LS amount to $4,410, while repairs are projected to cost $1,792. These figures indicate that the Malibu is not only affordable to buy but also cost-effective to maintain. But these figures are just a part of the total cost of ownership, which we go into detail about below.
Safety Features and Ratings
Safety is a top priority for any family sedan, and the new Chevrolet Malibu has great marks. It scored a strong safety record in some areas, with a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA good frontal impact crash test ratings from the IIHS.
The Malibu comes standard with a decent array of safety features, including:
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Front Pedestrian Braking
- Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
- Automatic high beam headlights
These features, including the continuously variable automatic transmission and rear parking sensors, are designed to enhance driver confidence and ensure a safer driving experience in a new car.
Additionally, the Malibu includes Teen Driver Technology, which allows parents to set speed and audio volume limits for young drivers. Optional safety features such as Adaptive Cruise Control and Rear Cross Traffic Alert further enhance the vehicle's safety credentials. With such a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, the Malibu is well-equipped to handle various driving conditions and scenarios.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
Fuel economy is a crucial factor for many car buyers, and recent models of recent Chevrolet Malibu models offer competitive numbers in this department. With an EPA mileage estimate of 29 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, the 2022 Malibu achieves a combined 32 mpg. This makes it an efficient choice for both city and highway driving.
The 2023 Malibu's fuel economy is impressive, further complemented by its 15.8-gallon fuel tank, which allows for approximately 474 miles of driving on a full tank. This range is particularly advantageous for long trips, reducing the need for frequent refueling stops.
Interior Comfort and Cargo Space
Step inside the new Chevrolet Malibu, and you'll find a spacious and comfortable interior designed with families in mind. The open and airy feel is created by the symmetrical dashboard and the large opening beneath the center stack. This design enhances the spaciousness of the interior. However, it's worth noting that the interior heavily relies on low-grade plastics, which can detract from the overall quality.
Despite this, the Malibu's cabin offers ample head- and legroom even for our taller sales advisors, ensuring a comfortable experience for both front and rear passengers-on test drives and day-to-day enjoyment after you take one home.
The front seats are supportive, featuring a wide base and supportive side bolsters. Simple controls and a user-friendly interface contribute to the overall comfort and convenience.
When it comes to cargo space, the Malibu does not disappoint. With a trunk capacity of 15.7 cubic feet, it provides ample room for luggage and other items. This generous cargo space, combined with a spacious cabin, makes the Malibu a practical choice for families and long trips.
Chevrolet Malibu vs. Competitors
The midsize sedan market is highly competitive, with several strong contenders vying for the top spot. The Chevrolet Malibu faces stiff competition from vehicles like:
- Honda Accord
- Hyundai Sonata
- Toyota Camry
Honda Accord and Toyota Camry Vs Chevrolet Malibu
Each of these models brings something unique to the table, making the choice a bit challenging for buyers. While competitors like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry offer slightly better fuel economy (the Accord is only 1 mpg better, given the 1.5L engine in each), the Malibu still holds its own and actually gets you further than the others, with 506 miles to empty from a full tank.
Its balance of performance and efficiency makes it a practical option for those seeking a fuel-efficient midsize sedan. As for driving experience that's a little more personal. Let's look at the experience for a first-person POV.
The Honda Accord offers:
- A spacious and upscale interior
- Easy-to-use touch screen technology
- Great safety ratings
The Toyota Camry, on the other hand, gives you an option to get faster off the line when you see a green light:
- a peppier base engine
- an available V6
- a slightly ritzier cabin
- fuel economy that's more for performance
Despite these advantages, the Camry's trunk space is slightly smaller compared to the Malibu. While the Malibu may not have the powertrain variety of its competitors, its affordability and spacious cabin make it a compelling choice. It offers a good balance of features and value, making it a practical option for families.
Total Cost of Ownership
The cost of ownership is a critical factor when choosing a vehicle, and the Chevrolet Malibu offers a competitive edge in this area. With a starting price of over $29,000 and reaching up to $33,000, the Malibu is an affordable option in the midsize sedan market.
Over 5 years, the total cost of ownership for a Chevrolet Malibu includes:
- Depreciation
- Insurance costs
- Fuel costs
- Financing costs
- Servicing costs
The estimated total cost of ownership for a Chevrolet Malibu is around $43,694 for the first 5 years, all in. Insurance cost estimates for a new Chevrolet Malibu Sedan LT over the first 5 years peaks at $1,650, while fuel costs are estimated at $6,247.
Compared to its competitors, the Malibu's lower maintenance and repair costs further enhance its affordability. This allows owners to save money in the long run, making the Malibu a smart investment for those looking for a reliable and economical vehicle.
Model Variations and Recommendations
There are four trims of the new Chevrolet Malibu available:
- LS
- RS
- LT
- 2LT
Each model offers a distinct set of features and customization options. Each model offers a unique set of features, catering to different preferences and budgets. The LS model, with a starting MSRP of $28,100, provides a solid entry point for buyers.
Malibu RS
The Malibu RS trim adds sporty touches, including black Chevrolet bowtie emblems, chrome grille surround with black grille inserts, and 18-inch aluminum wheels. It also features an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and a rear spoiler, enhancing both comfort and style.
Malibu 2LT
For those seeking the best combination of features and value, the 2LT trim is highly recommended. It comes equipped with 19-inch aluminum wheels, a 6-way power passenger seat, and the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system with Navigation.
Additional features include perforated leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a nine-speaker Bose stereo.
Test Drive a Chevrolet Malibu at Imperial Valley GM Today!
Ultimately, the newer models of the Chevrolet Malibu stands out as a competent and affordable midsize sedan. Its attractive design, comfortable ride, and spacious cabin make it a practical choice for families. The Malibu's reliability and cost-effectiveness make it a strong contender in its segment. You can always finance a Chevrolet Malibu as well to keep your upfront costs low.
Whether you're looking for a reliable family sedan or an economical vehicle, the Chevrolet Malibu offers great value. Its blend of style, practicality, and affordability ensures that it remains a relevant and appealing option for today's car buyers. So, is the Chevrolet Malibu a good car? In a word, absolutely. Contact us and test drive one today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Chevy Malibus last a long time?
Yes, Chevy Malibus are known for their longevity, often lasting just past 150,000 miles with proper maintenance. Their durability and reliability make them a smart investment for Southern California drivers.
Are Chevy Malibus worth it?
Absolutely, Chevy Malibus offer great value with their blend of reliability, fuel efficiency, and modern features. They provide a comfortable and stylish ride, making them a worthwhile investment for THE first 5 years and beyond.
Another vehicle that's well worth your money is the reliable GMC Acadia, offering a perfect blend of versatility, advanced technology, and premium comfort for families and adventurers alike.
Do Chevy Malibus have good resale value?
Yes, Chevy Malibus have a good resale value in California. On average, a Chevrolet Malibu retains about 55% of its value after 5 years, making it a solid investment for those looking to sell or trade in their vehicle down the line.
What is the last year of the Chevy Malibu?
2024 is the last year our OEM will make the Malibu, to redirect resources to Chevrolet Bolt EV manufacturing. That means our 2025 Chevrolet Malibu the last model years you can get!