The 2020 Chevrolet Malibu ranked #11 in Midsize Cars. Currently the Chevrolet Malibu has a score of 6.7 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 24 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Low base price for the class Great fuel economy
Cons Cheap-feeling cabin materials Dull handling Less passenger and trunk space than rivals
Almost nothing! The Malibu received a minor visual update for 2019, so the 2020 Malibu carries over to this year with only a few new colors (Stone Gray and Black Cherry) and new wheels for the RS and Premier trims. Three paint colors available in 2019 are no more, so if you had a strong attachment to or lust for Iridescent Pearl, Pacific Blue, or Sandy Ridge, 2020 just isn't your year.
Pros Handsome (yes, really!) design, lots of tech, great ride and handling for its class.
Cons Poor rear visibility, cheaper models lack features, can't disable auto stop/start.
The 2020 Chevrolet Malibu comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: continuously variable-speed automatic.Several optional packages have been renamed.The Malibu Hybrid has been discontinued.
PROS Spacious interior with lots of front-seat headroom Easy-to-use touchscreen interface
CONS Lackluster acceleration from the base 1.5-liter engine Limited outward visibility Interior looks dated compared to rivals
The 2019 Chevrolet Malibu ranked #16 in Midsize Cars. Currently the Chevrolet Malibu has a score of 7.9 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 22 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Supple ride Spacious seats Easy-to-use infotainment system
Cons Low-rent interior Unsupportive seats
For 2019, the Chevrolet Malibu actually offers all three: a bigger, restyled grille; a new RS model; and an all-new continuously variable automatic transmission. Known internally as VT40, it’s General Motors’ first CVT since 2005. That one, used primarily in Saturn brand vehicles, was problematic and had high failure rates, which led GM to offer an extended warranty.
Pros Comfortable ride CVT can mimic a traditional automatic.
Cons No performance upgrades, a good CVT is still a CVT.
The 2019 Chevrolet Malibu is a likeable sedan, but it requires some compromises when it comes to essential safety tech.
PROS Good looks Excellent performance from turbo engines Thrifty hybrid Excellent tech story
CONS Active safety gear costs too much Hardly engaging to drive Dull interior Light on personality