Looking for a roomy midsize sedan that's also stylish? The 2017 Chevrolet Malibu might be a good fit. Here's a quick rundown of what we like, what we don't and the bottom line from the Edmunds editors.
Transcript
JOSH SADLIER: This is automotive editor Josh Sadlier with an Edmunds Expert Rundown of the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu. The Malibu is Chevrolet's mid-size sedan. Recently redesigned, the base engine is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. We're not so high on that one. But if you step up to the Premier trim level, get the 2-liter turbo, it's got a lot of power. It's got a new nine-speed automatic for 2017. We're a fan of that one. Overall, the Malibu is pretty rewarding to drive by segment standards. Can handle itself pretty well around turns. Comfortable over bumps. Significant step up from Malibu's past. There's also a hybrid version of the Malibu. Obviously, better fuel economy, but performance does suffer a bit. Step inside the Malibu and you'll find a reasonably capacious back seat. Of course, that's expected for this segment. But you'll have no trouble fitting a couple of six-footers side by side, assuming the people in front are accommodating about it. Interior's quality has certainly improved for this generation. Previously, the Malibu was toward the bottom of the pack in that regard. Now we consider it competitive.The eight-inch touchscreen in the center of the dash is also a high point. It's responsive. It's nice to look at. One of the better ones you'll find in this class. It's not all peaches and cream with the 2017 Malibu. Do have some sparse equipment on base L trim. Not huge fans of the outward visibility. But that's the price you pay for the styling, which kind of reminds us of an Audi A7 if you squint. For more Edmunds Expert Rundowns, click the link to subscribe.
If you're shopping for a midsize sedan, you'll find that now may be the best time ever to consider the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu. Thanks to last year's full redesign, this latest version of the Malibu has ditched its somewhat bland recent past for a much more distinctive present. Key highlights include pleasing driving dynamics (which are downright sporty in the Premier trim), a lively hybrid version, a spacious cabin and (in most trim levels) an easy-to-use infotainment system with a large touchscreen and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone functionality.
There's also the crisp styling, which to our eyes makes the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu one of the sharpest midsize sedans around. The cabin is also well done, with high quality trim and sound ergonomics. Downsides are the thick roof pillars and some shiny trim that can obscure outward visibility.
Behind its aggressive dual-tier grille, the Malibu offers a choice of three engines: two turbocharged four-cylinder engines (1.5L and 2.0L) with 160 and 250 horsepower respectively, and a hybrid powertrain with 182 hp. The smaller turbo-four can feel flat-footed off a stop, but once moving along it effortlessly handles merging, climbing grades and higher speed cruising.
As you might expect, the larger turbocharged engine is considerably swifter. The Malibu Hybrid is the stunner of the lineup, though, with a refined nature and surprisingly quick acceleration to go along with its high fuel economy numbers. EPA estimates range from 26 mpg combined (22 city/33 highway) for the 2.0 turbo to 46 mpg combined (49 city/43 highway) for the Malibu Hybrid.
There are essentially five trim levels in the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu family. The four non-hybrid versions range from the base L up to the loaded Premier. The L isn't exactly a stripped car, as it counts keyless entry and ignition among its standard features, but it is otherwise basic indeed. The Premier trim goes full-on luxury with a heated steering wheel. The well-equipped LS and LT trims, which will likely be the volume sellers, sit between those two. The Hybrid is equipped similarly to the LT. There also are available packages that bring additional tech, comfort and convenience.
Thanks to its refined driving experience, convenient features and roomy cabin, the newest Malibu manages to stand tall in a crowded and competitive segment. When it's time to find the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu that's right for you, Edmunds is ready to help.
2017 Chevrolet Malibu Overview
The 2017 Chevrolet Malibu is offered in the following submodels: Hybrid, Sedan. Available styles include LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), and Premier 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A). Malibu models are available with a 0-liter gas engine, with output up to 0 hp, depending on engine type. The 2017 Malibu comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic, 9-speed shiftable automatic. The 2017 Malibu comes with a 3 yr./ 36000 mi. basic warranty, a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. roadside warranty, and a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. powertrain warranty.
What should I pay for a new 2017 Chevrolet Malibu?
2017 Chevrolet Malibu LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2017 Chevrolet Malibu LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $26040. The average price paid for a new 2017 Chevrolet Malibu LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $8612 below the manufacturer's MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $8612 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $17428.
The average savings for the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 33.1% below the MSRP.
We are showing 1 LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) 2017 Chevrolet Malibu LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2017 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2017 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $24605. The average price paid for a new 2017 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $5183 below the manufacturer's MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $5183 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $19422.
The average savings for the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 21.1% below the MSRP.
We are showing 1 LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) 2017 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2017 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2017 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $24485. The average price paid for a new 2017 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $5171 below the manufacturer's MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $5171 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $19314.
The average savings for the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 21.1% below the MSRP.
We are showing 1 LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) 2017 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2017 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2017 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $24140. The average price paid for a new 2017 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $4964.5 below the manufacturer's MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $4964.5 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $19175.5.
The average savings for the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 20.6% below the MSRP.
We are showing 1 LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) 2017 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
Is the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu a good car? Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2017 Malibu featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process All of our reviews are written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What do people think of the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu? Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2017 Malibu a 3.8 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2017 Malibu.
Vehicle LS Fleet 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Review I'm a full time student and this vehicle made being a student less stressful and much more enjoyable. I owned the vehicle for only a few months when I ended up totaling it sadly. I will be purchasing another one to replace my first and favorite vehicle. I was driving home at 11pm after a busy day of school and errands, as I was driving home there was a pack of deer that sprinted out in front of my vehicle and because I was driving the car I was driving I not only survived but walked away from the crash unharmed, I hit a tree after trying to avoid the deer and also rolled three times. Overall the safety on this car was flawless and because my vehicle came with a five year on-star prescription 9-1-1 was instantly dialed the moment my airbags went off. This style vehicle is not only stylish but safe and I would recommend this vehicle to any and everyone.
2017 Chevrolet Malibu inventory listings Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2017 Chevrolet Malibu for sale near Ashburn VA. There are currently 540 new and 973 used and CPO 2017 Malibus listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as 13997 and mileage as low as 0. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to 8612 on a new, used, or CPO 2017 Malibu available from one of 2632 dealerships in your area.
How can Edmunds help? Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color
Is the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu safe? The 2017 Chevrolet Malibu earned a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and "GOOD" ratings from the IIHS in the following caregories: Side Impact Test, Roof Strength Test, Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint, IIHS Small Overlap Front Test Results, Moderate Overlap Front Test Results, and a JD POWER overall quality rating of 3.0 out of 5. Among Edmunds' many tools and resources for finding your perfect car are detailed safety ratings and analysis from NHTSA, IIHS, and JD Power, including overall ratings, frontal barrier crash ratings, side impact tests and crash ratings, rollover test results, roof strength tests, rear crash protection and head restraint ratings, side barrier ratings, combined side barrier and pole ratings, and more.
MPG
2017 chevrolet malibu LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), 6-speed shiftable automatic, regular unleaded 30 combined MPG 27 city MPG/36 highway MPG
2017 chevrolet malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), 6-speed shiftable automatic, regular unleaded 30 combined MPG 27 city MPG/36 highway MPG
2017 chevrolet malibu Premier 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A), 9-speed shiftable automatic, premium unleaded (recommended) 26 combined MPG 22 city MPG/33 highway MPG
What options are available on the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu?
Available Chevrolet Malibu 2017 Submodel Types: Sedan, Hybrid
Available Chevrolet Malibu 2017 Trims: LT, LS, Premier, LT w/1LT, LTZ, LT1, LS Fleet, LT2, Hybrid, Base, Eco, SS, Fleet, L
Exterior Colors: Silver Ice Metallic, Summit White, Mosaic Black Metallic, Nightfall Gray Metallic, Blue Velvet Metallic, Black Granite Metallic, Cajun Red Tintcoat, Champagne Silver Metallic, Iridescent Pearl Tricoat, Ashen Gray Metallic, Atlantis Blue Metallic, Butte Red Metalllic, Taupe Gray Metallic, Arctic Blue Metallic, Mocha Steel Metallic, Imperial Blue Metallic, Pepperdust Metallic, Sandy Ridge Metallic, Gold Mist Metallic, Crystal Red Tintcoat , Sable Metallic, White Diamond Tricoat, Red Jewel Tintcoat, Black, Crystal Red Tintcoat, Light Driftwood Metallic, White, Golden Pewter Metallic, Amber Bronze Metallic, Sandstone Metallic, Silver Green Metallic, Silver Moss Metallic, Silver Topaz Metallic, Silverstone Metallic, Blue Topaz Metallic, Dark Blue Metallic, Dark Gray Metallic, Dark Tropic Teal Metallic, Galaxy Silver Metallic, Medium Gray Metallic, Monterey Maroon Metallic, Navy Blue Metallic, Autumn Bronze Metallic, Bright White, Dark Green Metallic, Dark Jade Green Metallic, Redfire Metallic, Sandrift Metallic, Sport Red Metallic
