2018 Chevrolet Malibu

Known as a dependable family car, the Malibu has great fuel economy, a spacious backseat, and excellent crash test ratings. The Malibu is a traditional four-door sedan, currently in its ninth generation and with over 10 million sold over the history of its line. Relatively lightweight and boasting new fuel injector technology, the car runs 27/36 mpg, one of the best averages for its size. For a little more money, the new hybrid option easily beats out competitors in fuel efficiency. The 2018 Malibu has changed its design very little over previous years’, except for its larger fuel tank that will keep drivers on the road even longer. The cabin is spacious and comfortably seats five, though the trunk may not hold larger suitcases. The Malibu earned a perfect rating on its crash and safety tests, making it one of the safest cars to drive.

The Malibu is one of the most affordable cars in its class, but owners might want to spring for more. While the base car has few coveted features, for as little as $1500 more, owners get an infotainment system, smartphone integration, Wi-Fi hotspot, and more to keep passengers entertained on the road. In addition, parents will appreciate the new teen driver feature that allows them to actually see their kids’ driving stats.

While it may not be the absolute best midsize car that money can buy, the Malibu is probably the most bang for your buck in its class. The 2018 Ford Fusion, for example, may perform better and hold more but in terms of safety, reliability, and affordability, the Malibu has it beat. Those looking for a sportier option may want a Fusion, Camry, or Optima, but the Malibu beats them in most other categories that count.

No. Since the model’s relaunch in 1997, the Malibu has strictly been a front-wheel drive sedan. In fact, not one of the midsize cars in Chevrolet’s popular lineup offers all-wheel drive. Buyers looking for AWD options should like at Chevy’s sport utility vehicle options, such as the Traverse, or look at sedan competitors with an AWD option, like the Ford Fusion or Subaru Legacy.

One advantage to changing little in the last two years is being able to judge the 2018 by looking at previous years’ models. The Malibu ninth generation is holding up well and earned a “Better than Most” score from JD Power in predicted reliability. In addition, 2016 and 2017 Malibus are reselling very near their MSRP. To top it off, new Malibus come with a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Malibus are one of the most reliable four-door sedans.