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 2021 Chevrolet Malibu loses the base L trim but adds a standard electronic park brake, two new paint colors, and 16-inch alloy wheels on the LT trim. The Malibu’s base powertrain is a 1.5-liter turbo 4-cylinder rated at 163 horsepower paired with a CVT automatic transmission and a stop/start system that aids city fuel economy. Topline Premier has a 2.0-liter turbo four rated at 250 horsepower mated to a 9-speed automatic. 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. Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto functionality and a Buckle to Drive safety feature are both standard. The Malibu has competent road manners, with fine handling and good ride quality. However, the steering is very lightly weighted and almost devoid of feel. Nonetheless, the Malibu’s other virtues shine through, making it 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 | LS: $24,395 RS: $25,395 LT: $27,795 Premier: $34,495 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder (L, LS, LT) |
| Horsepower 163 |
| Std. Transmission CVT |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 29 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 36 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (Premier) |
| Horsepower 250 |
| Std. Transmission 9-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 22 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 33 |
