2016 Chevy Malibu Limited Review
Price Range: $6,998 - $14,998
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Excellent crash test scores
- attractive interior
- quiet, comfortable ride.
Cons
- Snug backseat
- MyLink touchscreen interface can be finicky at times.
What’s new
The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited is a carryover of last year's Malibu but with a few key omissions. The formerly available 2.0-liter turbocharged engine has been discontinued, as have a handful of upscale features like xenon headlights.
Edmunds says
As a carryover 2015 Malibu with less content, the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited is still worth a look for value-minded shoppers, but it's not on the same level as the top midsize sedans.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
34 listings
- $7,997fair price$1,460 below market
- 103,653 miles
- No accidents, 2 owners, taxi vehicle
- 24 City / 34 Hwy MPG
- MBL Auto & TRUCKS (65 mi away)
- Bluetooth
- Power Driver Seat
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- USB Inputs
- Alarm
Close
Located in Woodford, VA
2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LT 4DR SEDAN**WE FINANCE PEOPLE WITH ALL TYPES OF CREDIT** TOTAL PRICES ON VEHICLES FINANCED MAY VARY. EVERYONE IS APPROVED. A...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: No
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
27 Combined MPG (24 City/34 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 1G11C5SA5GU142886
Stock: MB42886
Certified Pre-Owned: No - $7,800fair price$426 below market
- 139,277 miles
- No accidents, 3 owners, rental vehicle
- 24 City / 34 Hwy MPG
- C. Harper Buick GMC (131 mi away)
- Bluetooth
- Power Driver Seat
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- USB Inputs
- Alarm
Close
Located in Connellsville, PA
Clean CARFAX.Certification Program Details: Safe & Economical ----May have dings, dents, and minor scratches---- May require additional repairs not re...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: No
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
27 Combined MPG (24 City/34 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 1G11C5SAXGF147800
Stock: G8222B
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 12-20-2025
Vehicle overview
If you're shopping for a midsize family car, you should know that the field of possibilities just got a little more crowded. That's because the folks at Chevrolet have decided to offer two different takes on their long-running Malibu sedan for the 2016 model year. The one getting all the headlines is the fully redesigned version, of course, which looks to challenge segment leaders head-on. But if value is more important to you than the latest innovations, there's also a carryover of the previous generation that's known as the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited.
The Malibu Limited loses some of last year's more appealing options, most notably the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. What's left is a pleasant enough family sedan with some real strengths, including a quiet interior, a comfortable ride and excellent crash test scores. There are also some downsides, however, including a lack of rear legroom by midsize-sedan standards. Moreover, EPA-estimated fuel economy numbers are lower than the norm for this class.
The 2016 Malibu Limited faces a long list of distinguished rivals. Both the upgraded 2016 Honda Accord and the 2016 Hyundai Sonata deliver better fuel economy along with a much more spacious rear seat. The 2016 Ford Fusion is another strong choice by virtue of its good looks, responsive handling and long list of advanced features. The well-equipped and roomy 2016 Nissan Altima also merits consideration, while the recently revamped 2016 Toyota Camry is yet another entrant that deserves a look. You'll likely be able to get a pretty good deal on a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited, but it may be worth paying a premium to get a little more.
Performance & mpg
Under the hood, all 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited models get a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that generates 197 horsepower and 191 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive are standard.
Fuel economy is an EPA-estimated 27 mpg combined (24 city/34 highway), aided by a stop-start system that automatically turns off the engine when the car comes to a halt.
Safety
The 2016 Chevy Malibu Limited comes standard with antilock brakes, stability and traction control, front knee airbags, front side airbags, rear side airbags and side curtain airbags. Also standard is the OnStar telematics system, which includes automatic crash notification, on-demand roadside assistance, remote door unlocking and stolen vehicle location. A rearview camera is available, as is an Advanced Safety package with forward collision warning, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems.
In government crash tests, the Malibu Limited earned a perfect five stars for overall crash protection, with five stars for total frontal impact protection and five stars for total side impact protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the similar 2015 Malibu its highest possible rating of "Good" in the small-overlap frontal-offset and moderate-overlap frontal-offset impact collision tests. The Malibu also earned a "Good" rating in the side-impact, roof strength and whiplash reduction (seat and head restraints) tests.
Driving
On the road, the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited accelerates adequately for a base four-cylinder midsize sedan. The 2.5-liter engine is a bit less fuel-efficient than most rivals, however. Overall levels of wind and road noise are low, and the suspension adds to this sense of refinement by delivering a smooth ride. Handling is secure but far from sporty, meaning buyers seeking a midsize sedan that's legitimately fun to drive will likely be happier with some competing models.
Interior
Inside the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited you'll find a handsome dashboard, with sweeping lines complemented by satisfactory materials quality. Controls may initially appear a bit complicated, thanks to a handful of similar-looking buttons on the center stack, but things become more intuitive with regular use. Same goes for the available MyLink touchscreen, which offers neat features like smartphone-app integration but can be a bit slow to respond at times.
In terms of accommodations, the Malibu Limited offers good comfort up front, with the optional eight-way power-adjustable seats providing a generous range of positions. The backseat is another story, though, with a shortage of legroom significant enough that rear seat passengers may ask those up front to scoot their seats forward. These tight confines can also make it difficult to fit a rear-facing child seat. Most midsize sedans offer significantly roomier rear quarters.
The Malibu Limited's trunk space is slightly better than average at 16.3 cubic feet. The 60/40-split rear seatbacks also fold down to open up more cargo room.
2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited models
The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited is a midsize sedan offered in three trim levels: LS, LT and LTZ.
The base LS starts with 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, air-conditioning, cloth upholstery, a partial power driver seat with power height adjustment, 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a trip computer, cruise control, OnStar (with 4G LTE and mobile WiFi), Bluetooth phone connectivity and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player.
The LT adds upgraded headlights, body-color heated mirrors with integrated turn signals, ambient interior lighting, floor mats, Chevy's MyLink infotainment system (includes a 7-inch touchscreen, voice controls, Internet radio, smartphone-app integration and voice-to-text messaging capability for certain smartphones), Bluetooth streaming audio, satellite radio, an auxiliary audio input jack and a USB port.
The top-of-the-line LTZ tacks on 18-inch alloy wheels, foglights, remote start, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, eight-way power front seats (with power lumbar), heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Many of the upgraded features are available on lower trim levels via various options packages. Other add-ons (depending on trim level) include a rear spoiler, a power sunroof, a rearview camera, a nine-speaker Pioneer audio system, a 120-volt power outlet and an Advanced Safety package (consisting of forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems).

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Owners' Opinions
What Owners Like
Owners consistently appreciate the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited for its durability and comfort over time. Many report that the car maintains a like-new appearance even after several years on the road, underscoring the vehicle's lasting build quality. The Malibu Limited is praised for its smooth and comfortable ride, making it a preferred choice for long commutes or daily driving. The vehicle's handling is said to be reliable, providing a confident and stable feel on the highway. In terms of practicality, the Malibu Limited’s trunk offers ample space for cargo, which many find useful for family trips or grocery runs. An added bonus is the remote start feature, which owners find particularly convenient during cold mornings as it allows for a comfortable, pre-warmed cabin. Finally, drivers appreciate the fuel efficiency the Malibu Limited provides, with reports of impressive mileage that rivals many other vehicles in its class.
Common Issues
The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited is frequently criticized for its auto stop-start feature, which many find frustrating as it can cause the car to shutdown at stoplights or in traffic unexpectedly. Owners have also reported issues with the MyLink infotainment system, particularly the perplexing behavior of the touchscreen, which can frequently reboot or become unresponsive during use. Transmission troubles have been a concern for some Malibu Limited drivers, as sporadic gear shifts or high RPMs can indicate underlying issues that may require costly repairs if not addressed swiftly. Some drivers also experience electrical problems, such as the radio turning off unexpectedly, which can become an annoyance during regular commutes. Additionally, the car's low stance leads to frequent scraping on speed bumps or steep inclines, which is a recurring discomfort for many owners. The backseat is noted for being particularly snug, often leading to a lack of space for rear passengers or difficulty when installing child seats. Lastly, the Malibu Limited's absence of a backup camera in some trims is a notable shortcoming, especially for those who prioritize modern safety features in everyday driving scenarios.
Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers
The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited often leaves drivers with mixed feelings about their everyday experiences. On the one hand, many owners find the vehicle dependable for daily drives, valuing its comfort and stability on the road. This four-cylinder midsize sedan holds up well for long-term ownership, maintaining a fresh appearance and providing a quiet, smooth ride. Yet, some common annoyances become apparent over time, such as the persistent auto stop-start feature, which can interrupt an otherwise enjoyable driving experience. The infotainment system sometimes presents challenges, as unexpected reboots or sluggish responses can detract from its usefulness. Although it offers valuable features like remote start for convenience, its low clearance can lead to frequent contact with driveways or speed bumps. Despite these concerns, many find the Malibu Limited meeting their needs daily, with some appreciating the spacious trunk and overall fuel efficiency…
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$118/mo for Malibu Limited LS
Malibu Limited LS
vs
$146/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
Reliability
The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and no recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5, ranks it #4 out of 28 among Midsize Cars. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Reliability Rating by RepairPal
4.5 out of 5 stars4.5/5Excellent
#4 out of 28 among Midsize Cars
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
$415/yr
vs. $415/yr
for Average Midsize Car
for Average Midsize Car
Frequency
0.53x/yr
vs. 0.87x/yr
for Average Midsize Car
for Average Midsize Car
Severity
8.7%
vs. 10.2%
for Average Midsize Car
for Average Midsize Car
powered by RepairPal
Recalls
There are no recalls for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu LimitedWarranty
3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 5 years / 60,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 6 years / 100,000 miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 5 years / 60,000 miles
- Free maintenance Warranty
- 2 years / 24,000 miles
Chevrolet Malibu Limited Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(48%)
4(28%)
3(8%)
2(8%)
1(8%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Overall a great car
4 out of 5 starsMichelle, 02/10/2016
2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited LT 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
I am a true Chevy lover. I owned a 2004 Chevy Monte Carlo - regret trading that one in. However I find the 2016 Chevy Malibu Limited is a very reliable vehicle in all seasons. I just purchased it - right as winter started and it does very well in the snow. There are only a few things that I am not happy with - but will continue to drive this. First, the auto stop needs to have an … on/off button It gets very irritating to have the vehicle shut off at almost every stop sign/light/railroad crossing ect. This should be an option - not standard. I understand the point - but it is more irritating than anything. Second - the visors are a little too short/narrow. I am 5'3 so even when I raise the base of the seat up to a comfortable position - once the sun comes in the windshield - it is hard to see. The visors offer very little blockage of the sun. The acceleration could use a little boost, but it is not too bad. Overall i really enjoy the stability of the vehicle and the safety I feel while being behind the wheel even in the snow/ice.
2016 Malibu Limited
5 out of 5 starsJessica Day, 03/02/2016
2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited LT 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
I absolutely LOVE my 2016 Malibu Limited inside and out!!!! We have owned ours for over a month and have absolutely no complaints or concerns except for that we wish Chevy would have put parking sensors on the front bumper. It is a little challenging to make sure you do not hit a curb or another car when parking.
Would Not Buy Again
3 out of 5 starsMatt, 08/04/2018
2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited LTZ 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
Purchased this car after driving a 2001 Toyota Avalon.
This car is very appealing on the surface, however after a year of owning it is a very high maintenance car. Repairs pop up fast and often, and it needs to be perfectly maintained (i.e. needs a specific brand of oil, transmission fluids, etc.) otherwise the cars performance fades quickly. It’s an okay car, but be ready to spend … more on it than the average sedan requires after purchasing. In my opinion, you’re better off paying a higher sticker price on another manufacturer, than going for this car. You get what you pay for, and if I could do it again, I wouldn't buy a chevy, let alone the malibu.
Car has electrical problems, the radio will just turn off randomly, the bluetooth and aux cord features are abysmal, and the car has pretty bad sight lines.
Mechanically, after two years since it was originally put on the road the car has trouble starting, accelerating, and shifting gears (after being at a mechanics and the dealership service for a total of 3 weeks over the course of a month and a half, I was told there are no apparent problems with the car, yet the problems still persist). Additionally, the car is too low - i.e. it scratches on everything (speedbumps, steep hills, driveways, etc.).
Essentially, don't buy this car.
My son loves his 2016 Malibu Limited.
5 out of 5 starsGus, 12/30/2015
2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited LTZ 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
The Malibu limited does everything you want from a good sized car very well. Unusually attractive interior and connective technology for everything. Top Safety ratings at a reasonable price. Good lease!
2016 Malibu Limited Highlights
LS Fleet
| Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $22,565 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 27 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $118/month |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 16.3 cu.ft. |
| Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
| Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Malibu Limited include:
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover11.1%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestGood
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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