Pros: Ample power from turbocharged 4-cylinder powertrain; impressively quiet cabin; nice ride and handling balance
Cons: Subpar rear-seat space; uninspiring handling; some dashboard-layout issues
CG Says: After its redesign for 2013 and a significant freshening for 2014, the Chevrolet Malibu sees just one change of note for 2015: the addition of 4G LTE Internet connectivity with a Wi-Fi hotspot to the OnStar communications system. Malibu is dynamically as good as or better than most competitors, and it ranks at or near the top of the class for ride quality, refinement, quietness, and interior design. The main weak spot is rear legroom–despite Chevrolet’s efforts to improve it last year. Malibus with the smooth 2.5-liter engine deliver decent performance; the very refined turbo adds substantial muscle but doesn’t feel significantly sportier overall. This car is a solid effort, but it faces a class full of strong competitors. Malibu deserves a serious look, but be sure to check out the other midsize sedans too.
| Class | Midsize Car |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door sedan |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Chevrolet |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | LS: $22,340 1LT: $23,610 2LT: $25,470 3LT w/ Turbo: $27,005 LTZ: $28,195 LTZ w/ Turbo: $30,355 |
| Base Engine 2.5-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 196 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 25 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 36 |
| Optional Engine Turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 259 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 21 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 30 |
