2016 Chevrolet Malibu

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.

The Facts
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

2016 Chevrolet Malibu
2016 Chevrolet Malibu
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