2017 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: The 2017 Chevrolet Malibu gets a new 9-speed automatic transmission for its topline Premier model. All Malibus, except the base L model, now have standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Teen Driver safety technology. The 2LT model has been dropped. The Malibu midsize sedan was redesigned for 2016. Three powertrains are offered, all using 4-cylinder engines. The base engine is 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. Topline Premier has a 2.0-liter turbo rated at 250 horsepower mated to a 9-speed automatic. The Hybrid model has a total system horsepower (gas and electric) of 182, and it carries impressive EPA figures of 47 city/41 highway/44 combined. Available safety features include low-speed automatic braking, front pedestrian braking, lane-keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear seat reminder. Wireless cell-phone charging is available. Ride quality is quite good. Handling is fine, though the steering is very light and almost devoid of feel. The new Malibu is 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: $21,680
LS: $23,225
1LT: $25,125
Premier: $30,975
Hybrid: $27,875

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)
36

Optional Engine
Turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower
250
Std. Transmission
9-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)
47
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
41

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