Pros: Ample power from turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder powertrain; good rear-seat space; nice ride and handling balance
Cons: Steering lacks feel; some high-tech features only available on top trim levels
CG Says: Malibu is redesigned for 2016. Riding a new platform, Malibu is longer with improved rear-seat legroom—yet is said to be nearly 300 pounds lighter. Three powertrains are offered, all using 4-cylinder engines. The base engine is now a 1.5-liter turbo rated at 163 horsepower, and it’s mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. It includes a stop/start system that aids city fuel economy. Upper-line models get a 2.0-liter turbo rated at 250 horsepower mated to an 8-speed automatic. Due later in the year is a Hybrid model with total system horsepower (gas and electric) of 182 horsepower, and it carries impressive EPA figures of 48 city/45 highway/47 combined. Ride quality is quite good. Handling is fine, though the steering is very light and almost devoid of feel. The new Malibu is now a strong competitor in the fiercely competitive midsized-sedan market.
| 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 | L: $21,625 LS: $23,120 1LT: $25,020 2LT: $28,620 Premier: $30,920 Hybrid: $27,770 |
| Base Engine Turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 163 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 27 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 37 |
| Optional Engine Turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 250 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 22 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 33 |
| Optional Engine 1.8-liter 4-cylinder/electric |
| Horsepower 182 |
| Std. Transmission single-speed |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 48 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 45 |
