The 2018 Chevrolet Malibu stands out in the midsize sedan field for its sharp looks and mix of appealing qualities. It's loaded with technology and offers a roomy interior. There's also a range of engine choices, including a hybrid option. In this video, we highlight the key features that matter most. From mpg, interior space and technology to design and comfort - these pros and cons will help steer you toward a perfect car.
Transcript
BRYN MACKINNON: I'm Edmond's Editor Bryn MacKinnon, and here's a features rundown of the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu. Among the four trim levels and three power trains, we recommend the Malibu Hybrid LTE. It has a good mix of features, performance, and efficiency. We also suggest adding the optional convenience and technology package. We found the 1.5 liter base engine to be a little weak by comparison and upgrading to the hybrid shouldn't break the bank. We deducted points for the occasionally clumsy transmission that can be sluggish and prone to odd lurches when slowing to a stop. Thick roof pillars and a high rear deck lid can cause some issues for outward visibility. Our rear-view camera is standard on all but the base model Malibu. The standard Malibus have almost 16-cubic feet of trunk space which is about average for the class. Unfortunately, the hybrid is reduced to 11.6 cubic feet, but there is still a rear seat pass through for longer items. The rear seats can accommodate taller passengers, but the sloping roof line can make it feel a little confining back there. The interior is pleasantly modern, but materials quality is only about average for the class. We caution against the lighter colored dashboards as they can cause some distracting reflections. The Chevy MyLink system gets high marks for its ease of use as well as the inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You also get a Wi-Fi Hotspot. The front seats are firm, yet comfortable with plenty of lateral support. They're also very spacious with little fatigue to report after several hours behind the wheel. Chevy Malibu's top competitors include Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Mazda 6. Bottom line-- since it's completely redesigned for the 2016 model year, the latest Chevrolet Malibu is very competitive in the midsize sedan category. Some rivals might boast better driving dynamics or more features for the money. But the Malibu provides a solid and stylish all-around package. [MUSIC PLAYING]
Midsize sedan shoppers should definitely consider the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu. It's been a standout in the class since its full redesign two years ago, a complete reversal from just a few years ago. Chevrolet's redesign made the new Malibu a much more stylish car and gave it an appealing cabin with more space than many other sedans. The 2018 Malibu stands apart from most midsize sedans for its entertaining feel on the road that even extends to the frugal hybrid version.
Behind the handsome new front end, the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu has a choice of three engines: two turbocharged four-cylinder engines, a 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter, making 160 and 250 horsepower, respectively, and a hybrid setup that makes 182 hp and an impressive 277 pound-feet of torque. The optional 2.0-liter offers brisk acceleration, but, thanks to its smooth power delivery and comparable handling, we think the Hybrid is the most pleasing version of the Malibu. Even better, it returns 46 mpg combined (49 city/43 highway).
Aside from the Hybrid (which offer similar features and options to the 1LT trim), the 2018 Malibu has four trim levels: L, LS, 1LT and Premier. The base L trim is disappointingly spare, offering little in the way of amenities beyond air-conditioning, cruise control and a push-button start. It has a Bluetooth phone connection, but no Bluetooth audio streaming.
The LS and 1LT trims will be the most popular versions of the Malibu sedan, offering more features at a reasonable price. Both come with Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, and a 7-inch touchscreen display, as well as a rearview camera and more sound insulation to keep the sedan's cabin quiet.
A number of packages are available to upgrade the 1LT with more tech, more active safety features, leather upholstery and a nine-speaker Bose stereo. Like the L, both the LS and 1LT are powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Buyers looking for fuel efficiency and smooth performance should give the Malibu Hybrid a look. It offers the same features as the 1LT and can be upgraded with the same packages.
The 2018 Chevrolet Malibu Premier gets all of the 1LT's standard equipment, along with much of its optional technology and luxury upgrades like an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation and leather seats. It also gets the potent 2.0-liter engine and a nine-speed automatic transmission. It's the priciest version of the Malibu, but it also has a lot to offer.
Thanks to its refined driving experience, convenient features and roomy cabin, the newest Malibu manages to stand tall in a crowded and competitive segment. Make sure to read the full Edmunds review to find the trim that's right for you, and take advantage of our shopping tools to find the best deal on a 2018 Chevrolet Malibu.
2018 Chevrolet Malibu Overview
The 2018 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 2018 Malibu comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic, 9-speed shiftable automatic. The 2018 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 2018 Chevrolet Malibu?
2018 Chevrolet Malibu Premier 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A)
The 2018 Chevrolet Malibu Premier 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $36350. The average price paid for a new 2018 Chevrolet Malibu Premier 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) is trending $5991.8 below the manufacturer's MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $5991.8 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $30358.2.
The average savings for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu Premier 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) is 16.5% below the MSRP.
We are showing 15 Premier 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) 2018 Chevrolet Malibu Premier 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2018 Chevrolet Malibu LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2018 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 $26935. The average price paid for a new 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $7321.8 below the manufacturer's MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $7321.8 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $19613.2.
The average savings for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 27.2% below the MSRP.
We are showing 17 LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2018 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2018 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 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $6964.5 below the manufacturer's MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $6964.5 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $17175.5.
The average savings for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 28.9% below the MSRP.
We are showing 34 LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2018 Chevrolet Malibu LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2018 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 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $8840 below the manufacturer's MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $8840 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $17200.
The average savings for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 33.9% below the MSRP.
We are showing 13 LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2018 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2018 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 $24720. The average price paid for a new 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $3500 below the manufacturer's MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $3500 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $21220.
The average savings for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 14.2% below the MSRP.
We are showing 12 LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2018 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2018 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 $24490. The average price paid for a new 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $3350 below the manufacturer's MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $3350 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $21140.
The average savings for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 13.7% below the MSRP.
We are showing 12 LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2018 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2018 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 $24465. The average price paid for a new 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $4594 below the manufacturer's MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $4594 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $19871.
The average savings for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 18.8% below the MSRP.
We are showing 10 LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2018 Chevrolet Malibu LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2018 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 $29830. The average price paid for a new 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $9683.2 below the manufacturer's MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $9683.2 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $20146.8.
The average savings for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 32.5% below the MSRP.
We are showing 9 LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2018 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2018 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 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $7352.5 below the manufacturer's MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $7352.5 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $16787.5.
The average savings for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 30.5% below the MSRP.
We are showing 9 LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
Is the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu a good car? Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2018 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 2018 Chevrolet Malibu? Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2018 Malibu a 4.5 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 2018 Malibu.
Vehicle LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Review I traded my '14 for an '18, total redesign, much more roomier... especially in the back seat. Here's the rundown: Pros: It's roomy and comfortable, gives a smooth, quiet ride, has plenty of room in the back seat and trunk, has the features you need on the LS model...without the stuff you don't need ( example:. It has tilt and telescoping wheel, back up camera, OnStar, Bluetooth, internet access, USB ports), Android Auto, auto stop feature, push button start, 6-way adjustable seats, great mileage....so far, averaging 28 MPG. Cons:. Base engine built for economy, not speed---you won't be winning any red light races, no glove box light, cubbies are weirdly shaped, telescoping wheel does not come out far enough, cup holders small and not adjustable, no vanity mirror lights, no rub strip trim along the doors--- car will get dings easily. Minor stuff, but overall, I highly recommend this car, especially for what you get for the price.
2018 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) 2018 Chevrolet Malibu for sale near Ashburn VA. There are currently 546 new and 983 used and CPO 2018 Malibus listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as 16777 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 2018 Chevrolet Malibu. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to 10713 on a new, used, or CPO 2018 Malibu available from one of 2630 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 2018 Chevrolet Malibu safe? The 2018 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 4.5 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
2018 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
2018 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
2018 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 2018 Chevrolet Malibu?
Available Chevrolet Malibu 2018 Submodel Types: Sedan, Hybrid
Available Chevrolet Malibu 2018 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, Imperial Blue Metallic, Mocha Steel Metallic, Pepperdust Metallic, Sandy Ridge Metallic, Crystal Red Tintcoat , Sable Metallic, White Diamond Tricoat, Gold Mist Metallic, Red Jewel Tintcoat, Light Driftwood Metallic, White, Crystal Red Tintcoat, Black, Golden Pewter Metallic, Silver Topaz Metallic, Silverstone Metallic, Amber Bronze Metallic, Sandstone Metallic, Silver Green Metallic, Silver Moss 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
