Wonderfull 2016 Chevrolet Malibu

Testers say the redesigned 2016 Chevrolet Malibu is a strong contender with class leaders thanks to its spacious seats, user-friendly infotainment system and good trunk space.

Performance Summary

The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu features a turbocharged four-cylinder base engine, and a larger turbocharged four-cylinder engine is optional. Automotive writers say the base engine is strong enough for day-to-day driving, but most prefer the added power of the larger engine. An automatic transmission is standard.

The Malibu gets an EPA-estimated 27/37 mpg city/highway with the base engine, which is good for the class. It also comes standard with a stop/start feature that increases fuel economy by shutting off the engine when the car comes to a stop. Test drivers note that the Malibu rides comfortably and delivers composed handling, though some point out that class rivals are more athletic.

Interior Summary

Some critics think the 2016 Malibu's interior is handsome and filled with high-end materials. Others complain that the materials in lower trims seem cheap and that the cabin looks too busy. They appreciate the comfortable front seats and add that the rear seats offer as much or more room than many notable rivals. The Malibu's trunk space is above average for the class.

Standard features in the Malibu include push-button start and a six-speaker audio system. Available features include a power sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, a nine-speaker Bose audio system, dual USB ports, satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, a rearview camera, front pedestrian alert, forward collision warning, front and rear parking sensors, blind zone alert, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, rear cross traffic alert, adaptive cruise control and Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment system with an 8-inch touch screen, voice recognition, Bluetooth audio streaming, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. OnStar with 4G LTE and a built-in Wi-Fi hot spot is also available. Most reviewers agree that the infotainment system is user-friendly.

• "We've just driven the all-new 2016 Chevrolet Malibu, and it is simply excellent, the strongest contender GM has had in this segment in many, many years." 
• "Its sleek looks might be the best in its class, resembling the larger Chevy Impala in all the right ways. But there's more than that pretty face. The new Chevy Malibu boasts a comfortable and modern interior with a big back seat and high-tech features. … There are three engine choices, including an all-new 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder and a hybrid with a Volt-derived powertrain. Put it together, and it's a formidable contender against the likes of the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata and Kia Optima."
• "Good as the new Malibu is, it's up against stiff competition that is likewise both good and up to date. What Chevy's sedan brings to the party are some interesting high-tech features others lack, though it's disappointing that many aren't available until you spring for the next-to-top trim level, and even then they're optional." 
• "Fully redesigned, the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu makes its presence felt with standard turbocharged power, an optional hybrid version and much sleeker styling inside and out. The family sedan segment is so competitive that it's hard to pick a winner, but the new Malibu is now in the conversation." 

Other Cars to Consider

The  impresses reviewers with its powerful turbocharged engine options and athletic handling. They say it has a quiet, smooth ride, a stylish cabin and spacious seating in both rows.

Test drivers praise the  for its outstanding outward visibility, spacious seating and stylish cabin built with high-quality materials. Some reviewers also mention that the Accord's optional V6 feels more potent than the Malibu's optional 2.0-liter turbocharged engine.

Details: 2016 Chevrolet Malibu

The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu seats five and comes standard with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. A turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that is paired with an eight-speed automatic is available. Front-wheel drive is standard. The Malibu comes in five trims: L, LS, 1LT, 2LT and Premier. The  is reviewed separately. Chevrolet completely redesigned the Malibu for the 2016 model year.

Review Last Updated: 2/17/16 by U.S. News Best Cars

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