2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan
What’s new
- Refreshed for 2019
- New transmission for turbo 1.5-liter engine
- New front and rear styling
- Upgraded infotainment system
- Part of the ninth Malibu generation introduced for 2016
Pros
- Spacious interior with lots of front-seat headroom
- Hybrid trim offers high efficiency and brisk acceleration
- Easy-to-use touchscreen interface
Cons
- Lackluster acceleration from the base 1.5-liter engine
- Limited outward visibility
- Interior looks dated compared to rivals
2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan pricing
in Ashburn, VA
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There are no consumer reviews for the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu.
Features & Specs
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Malibu safety features:
- Forward Collision Alert
- Warns the driver of potential obstacles ahead. (Automatic braking is available as an optional extra.)
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Informs the driver of vehicles in perpendicular motion behind the car when reversing.
- Pedestrian Detection
- Warns the driver of pedestrians in the roadway and automatically applies the brakes if the driver does not take action.
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Chevrolet Malibu vs. the competition
2019 Chevrolet Malibu
2019 Chevrolet Impala
Chevrolet Malibu vs. Chevrolet Impala
The Chevy Impala is one size up from the Malibu, meaning it has both a roomier interior and a more spacious trunk. An optional V6 is available, which delivers smooth power. Some buyers might prefer the V6 to the Malibu's upgraded four-cylinder. The Impala is a little harder to park and costs several thousand more than the Malibu.
Chevrolet Malibu vs. Chevrolet Cruze
The Chevy Cruze is a size smaller than the Malibu, falling into the compact sedan category. The smaller footprint means there's less rear legroom. It's less expensive than the Malibu, and feels a bit cheaper on the inside, but it also returns better fuel economy. In midlevel trim levels, you won't miss out too much on extra features, but the Malibu's top trim has more standard and optional equipment. The Cruze offers a hatchback body and diesel engine option that are not available on the Malibu.
Chevrolet Malibu vs. Ford Fusion
The Ford Fusion is a competitive midsize sedan with great handling and a more engaging overall driving experience. There are more standard safety features, and Ford's Sync 3 system is just as easy to use as Chevy's infotainment. The Fusion also offers its own hybrid and PHEV powertrains for better fuel efficiency. The Fusion is also available with all-wheel drive to tackle inclement weather.
2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan for Sale
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First Drive: 2019 Chevrolet Malibu CVT
More efficiency, same car
byThe 2019 Chevrolet Malibu receives a light refresh, including a few appearance tweaks and some upgraded technology features. But the real news is the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that now comes paired with the base 1.5-liter engine.
What's the Big Deal?
Well, the Malibu is the first CVT-equipped Chevy for sale to the public (the CVT was already available in some fleet vehicles), and CVTs themselves are a big deal because they tend to deliver more mpg, though typically at the cost of some responsiveness. While we don't have official EPA estimates for the 2019 Malibu yet, Chevy says we'll see a distinct improvement in fuel economy. For that reason alone, we're likely to see this CVT spread to more of Chevy's consumer lineup.
In some ways, the new transmission actually improves drivability. It does a better job taking advantage of the 1.5-liter's modest 163 horsepower, providing a stronger feeling of acceleration without the old six-speed's need to swap cogs. There's still some of that characteristic "rubber-band" feeling to the transmission's response, however, and if you suddenly ask for a lot of acceleration, there's a distinct pause before the engine and transmission get their story straight and start delivering. This lag can be problematic during passing or evasive maneuvers.
It's worth noting that the 250-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that's standard on the Premier trim carries over its nine-speed automatic transmission. We're unlikely to see higher-output engines paired with the CVT in the near future. The nine-speed is generally well-behaved when paired with more powerful engines, and shoppers who care about adding grunt to their driving experience will likely appreciate the more traditional feel of a responsive automatic running through its gears.
So What Else Is New?
Not a lot changes on the surface. Chevy's midsize sedan looks a little sleeker on the outside, with reshaped light clusters front and rear along with new bumpers. There's a new RS trim with dark chrome accents and dual exhaust tips, but no added power. This midlevel trim is set to go against playful rivals such as the Accord Sport, with a comparable price point and level of equipment.
Inside, you'll find the same comfy seats, good rear legroom and composed ride. This is the kind of car that's easy to spend time sitting in. Notably, the infotainment unit has been upgraded, with a new 8-inch touchscreen unit standard across the range. This is Chevy's Infotainment 3 system, which provides quicker response times and crisper graphics, along with standard Android Auto/Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth audio streaming that can connect to two devices simultaneously. Thankfully, it's just as easy to use as the outgoing interface.
The upgraded tech is nice to have, as is the now-standard backup camera, but without broader changes the Malibu's interior shows its age. Competitors have moved ahead in leaps and bounds in terms of their interior design and materials quality. Stacked up against the freshly redesigned Accord and Camry and the updated Mazda 6, the Malibu feels older and chintzier.
On the road, we were pleasantly surprised to be reminded that the Malibu is a competent handler. It corners with enough athleticism to challenge most of the midsize field. The steering is very light and a bit numb, which is fine for city duty but somewhat of a disappointment when you get out on a back road and realize the Malibu actually has a little hustle.
The Bottom Line
The 2019 Malibu should start arriving in dealerships this November, and we'll get a chance to see how the public feels about the new transmission. As a replacement for the base engine's old six-speed unit, it certainly has its advantages. Overall, though, the Malibu remains a midpack competitor despite the expected boost in mpg. A more comprehensive overhaul is in order if it's going to go toe to toe with class leaders.
The 2019 Chevrolet Malibu receives an upgraded infotainment system and a new RS trim that includes some sporty appearance cues. The big news, though, is the migration of the base transmission from a six-speed automatic to a CVT automatic, which boosts combined EPA mileage by 2 mpg. Unfortunately, driver aids and active safety features are not standard equipment and are only available as options on higher Malibu trim levels, which is uncommon for the segment.
Behind the handsome front end, the 2019 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, the 2019 Malibu has five trim levels: L, LS, RS, LT and Premier. The base L trim is a bit sparse, but does offer excellent standard infotainment: an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The LS and LT trims will be the most popular versions of the Malibu sedan, offering more features at a reasonable price, while the RS presents some sporty design cues and a few nice upgrades such as a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.
Buyers looking for fuel efficiency and a smooth performance should give the Malibu Hybrid a look. It offers the same features as the LT and can be upgraded with the same packages.
The 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Premier gets all of the LT's standard equipment, along with much of its optional technology and luxury upgrades such as an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation and leather seats, which are also ventilated. It's the only trim to offer optional adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. 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 has some nice luxuries.
In short, the Malibu is a comfortable sedan that makes long road trips easy to tolerate and comes standard with excellent infotainment features. 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 locate the best deal on a 2019 Chevrolet Malibu.
2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan Overview
The 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan is offered in the following styles: L 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo CVT), Premier 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A), RS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo CVT), Hybrid 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid DD), LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo CVT), and LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo CVT).
What do people think of the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan and all its trim types. 0 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 2019 Malibu Sedan.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan and all model years in our database. Our rich analysis includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2019 Malibu Sedan featuring deep dives into trim levels including L, Premier, RS, etc. with careful analysis around pricing, features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving and performance. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Read our full review of the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan here.Our Review Process
This review was 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's a good price for a New 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan?
2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan Premier 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A)
Available Inventory:We are showing 2 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan Premier 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo CVT)
The 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $27,380. The average price paid for a new 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo CVT) is trending $4,337 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $4,337 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$23,043.
The average savings for the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo CVT) is15.8% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 47 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan LT 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo CVT) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo CVT)
The 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $24,035. The average price paid for a new 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo CVT) is trending $4,011 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $4,011 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$20,024.
The average savings for the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo CVT) is16.7% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 27 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan LS 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo CVT) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on new cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedans are available in my area?
2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan Listings and Inventory
There are currently 259 new 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedans listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $23,995 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of used car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap used cars 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 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $4,691 on a new, used or CPO 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan available from a dealership near you.
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan for sale near you.
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Find a new Chevrolet Malibu for sale - 3 great deals out of 24 listings starting at $12,978.
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Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including all models of the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan and all available trim types: L, Premier, RS, etc. Rich, trim-level features & specs and options data tracked for the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan include (but are not limited to): MSRP, available incentives and deals, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (interior and exterior color, upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, cruise control, parking assistance, lane sensing, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy and MPG (city, highway, and combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (interior cabin space, vehicle length and width, seating capacity, cargo space). Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds expert review, safety rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2019 Chevrolet Malibu?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Chevrolet lease specials
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2019 Chevrolet Malibu Information
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