2021 Chevy Malibu Review

The Chevrolet Malibu has been around in various forms, as well as various levels of success, since 1964. The 2021 Malibu, somewhat surprisingly, is now Chevy's only sedan. Everything else, from the smaller Cruze to the bigger Impala, has been put out to pasture.

A well-equipped Malibu Premier with the upgraded turbocharged engine is likable enough. The problem is that any other Malibu trim — which would be most of them you find on a dealer lot — isn't going to be competitive against other midsize sedans. The base engine lacks power, and Chevy doesn't add the latest advanced driver safety aids as standard equipment as most automakers do these days. The Malibu's interior design and materials could also use a thorough redo.

Unless you can get a great deal on a Malibu, we'd suggest going with a more appealing rival sedan such as the Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Kia K5, Mazda 6 or Toyota Camry.

The Malibu midsize sedan available in five trim levels: L, LS, RS, LT and Premier. Two engines are available. Most Malibus come with a turbocharged 160-hp four-cylinder connected to a continuously variable automatic transmission. For the Premier trim, Chevy fits a bigger turbocharged four-cylinder engine that's good for 250 hp. It's connected to a nine-speed automatic transmission. All Malibus are front-wheel-drive. Highlight features include: