2020 Chevy Malibu Review

　　

2020 Chevrolet Malibu Review

byCalvin KimVehicle Test Engineer

　　Calvin Kim is an automotive journalist at zzdcar.

　　First, the good news. The 2020 Chevrolet Malibu rides well on the highway and has a roomy cabin fitted with an easy-to-use infotainment system. It is, at its core, a fundamentally solid midsize sedan. However, it also happens to be surrounded by a deep class of rival sedans that outdo it in a few areas.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 Chevrolet Malibu L 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo CVT) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.04 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$118/mo  for Malibu L

　　Malibu L

　　L 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo CVT) - $22,095 MSRPLS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo CVT) (Most Popular) - $23,220 MSRPLS Fleet 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo CVT) - $23,220 MSRPRS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo CVT) - $24,220 MSRPLT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo CVT) - $26,620 MSRPPremier 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) - $33,320 MSRP

　　vs

　　$164/mo

　　Avg. Midsize Car

　　Like its competitors, the Malibu can be equipped with different powertrains. There are two turbocharged four-cylinder engine options: a base 1.5-liter and a 2.0-liter engine. We like the zesty 2.0-liter engine, but the base 1.5-liter engine — the one most commonly found at dealer lots — is sluggish.

　　On the inside, there's roomy seating up front. But there's less rear legroom compared to what you'll find in some other top sedans, and the overall cabin aesthetic is a bit underwhelming. The report on the infotainment system is mixed, too. GM's Chevrolet Link 3 system features useful smartphone integration and big graphics, but its standard display looks lower-res than the competition.

　　Overall, the Malibu is an acceptable choice, especially if you manage to get a great deal or are interested in the hybrid version. But we also suggest shopping some of the other zzdcar' top-rated sedans such as the Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata and Mazda 6.

　　

Which Malibu does zzdcar recommend?

We used to recommend the hybrid as it provided the best combination of features, performance and value. But since Chevrolet discontinued it this year, the next best choice is the Premier. Yes, it's the most expensive version of the Malibu, but its more powerful engine makes daily driving a lot more enjoyable.

　　

2020 Chevrolet Malibu models

The 2020 Chevrolet Malibu is a five-seat, four-door midsize sedan that's available in five trim levels: L, LS, RS, LT and Premier. All but the Premier come with the same 1.5-liter turbocharged engine and CVT automatic combination that sends 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels.

　　The L trim is the base model, but it comes with the bare necessities such as air conditioning and extras such as steering wheel controls, keyless entry and ignition, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.

　　The LS, RS and LT all feature increasing levels of content based off the L model. The LS adds some creature comforts such as noise-reducing glass and OnStar, but it really just paves the way for some option packages. The RS adds convenience amenities such as power-adjustable seats and style accessories such as a rear spoiler and unique grille. With the LT, you'll get satellite radio, front-seat heating, and dual-zone climate control with a vent for rear-seat passengers.

　　The Premier model upgrades to a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine and a nine-speed transmission that produces 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Feature content is similar to the LT model but with the addition of built-in navigation, a nine-speaker audio system, leather seating and a sunroof, among other features.

　　Several driver safety aids are optional on the Malibu, including forward collision mitigation and lane departure warning.

　　

2020 Malibu Highlights

Trim: LLSLS FleetRSLTPremierL

　　

Base MSRP	$22,095
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	32 MPG
Cost to Drive	$118/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	15.7 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles