Chevrolet Malibu (2025)
Comfortable, roomy, fuel-efficient transportation with dated technology and leisurely performance.
The 2025 Chevrolet Malibu is the automotive equivalent of a dependable flip phone: straightforward, comfortable transportation for commuters, small families, and sedan loyalists who want to avoid SUV bulk and complexity. Its quiet, cushioned ride, roomy back seat, practical trunk, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are consistently supported by reviewers and owners. Chevrolet’s efficiency pitch holds up reasonably well at roughly 30 mpg combined, though newer hybrids do better. The 1.5-liter turbo and CVT are smooth but slow, while dated materials, limited safety tech, and no spare tire temper the bargain. It makes the most sense with incentives, and its overall appeal rests on comfort, space, simplicity, and price.
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Benefits
Cushioned seats and a composed, quiet ride make commuting and highway miles easier.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keep calls, music, and directions simple without cables.
Spacious rear seating and a large trunk comfortably handle family errands, luggage, and passengers.
The turbo engine uses regular fuel efficiently, helping routine commutes go farther between fill-ups.
Trade-Offs
Gentle acceleration can make highway merges and passing feel longer than expected.
Pressing hard for acceleration makes the CVT drone, adding noise during merges and uphill driving.
The small screen and dated controls make maps and menus less comfortable to read quickly.
Without standard blind-spot alerts, busy-lane changes require extra checking before moving over.
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Publications
2 LEADING PUBLICATION REVIEWS
Car and Driver views the 2025 Malibu as a comfortable, sensible sedan that falls short of its newer rivals. Its attractive styling, supportive front seats, spacious cabin, large trunk, user-friendly infotainment, and composed ride give it genuine everyday appeal, while its aggressive pricing strengthens the case for buyers on a budget. The turbocharged 1.5-liter engine delivers smooth, steady acceleration and respectable highway fuel economy, but it is notably slow, and the 30-mpg combined estimate trails key competitors. The dated interior, weaker outward visibility, limited standard driver-assistance technology, and missing all-wheel-drive option further expose its age. With the Malibu ending production unchanged, Car and Driver’s recommendation is practical rather than passionate: the LT trim is the best choice, but a lightly used example may offer better value.
By Kristin Shaw
Kelley Blue Book views the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu as a sensible but increasingly dated choice. Its comfortable ride, predictable handling, roomy rear seat, respectable 15.7-cubic-foot trunk, and user-friendly wireless smartphone integration remain genuine strengths. The Malibu is also relatively affordable, returns a decent 30 mpg combined, and includes thoughtful features such as Teen Driver and Buckle to Drive. However, its 163-horsepower engine is the weakest in the class, acceleration is leisurely, resale values are poor, and rivals offer more power, newer interiors, hybrids, or all-wheel drive for similar money. The small 8-inch screen and disappointing IIHS side-impact result reinforce its age, even though it carries a five-star NHTSA rating. With Chevrolet ending production after 2025, KBB’s tone is fond but hardly enthusiastic: the RS is worth considering at the right price, especially for straightforward transportation, but spending more makes fresher competitors increasingly appealing.
By Colin Ryan
YouTube
8 LEADING EXPERT & INFLUENCER REVIEWS
Shooting CarsZack Pradel is warmly impressed by the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu, while mourning its quiet demise. He appreciates its comfortable ride, easy-to-read gauges, roomy rear seat and trunk, heated and ventilated seats, sunroof, and straightforward Apple CarPlay/Android Auto setup. The 1.5-liter turbo and CVT feel adequate rather than exciting, and the aging design and lack of meaningful updates are obvious. Ultimately, he views the Malibu as a competent, practical sedan that works well as transportation, but feels disappointed Chevrolet let a once-important nameplate fade away without a proper sendoff.
Gold PonyGold Pony is clearly positive about the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu, especially its styling, comfort, value, and fuel economy. The test drive found acceleration adequate for highway merging, firm, confidence-inspiring brakes, pleasant ride quality, manageable road noise, and a surprisingly upscale-feeling LS interior. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, remote start, a roomy trunk, and strong rear visibility add practical appeal. Still, the Malibu feels dated, with halogen lighting on lower trims, only front-wheel drive, a single turbo-CVT powertrain, mediocre base-audio clarity, and no hybrid option. Gold Pony ultimately likes it, while wishing Chevrolet had modernized it before ending production.
Shooting CarsZack Pradel is warmly impressed by the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu, while mourning its quiet demise. He appreciates its comfortable ride, easy-to-read gauges, roomy rear seat and trunk, heated and ventilated seats, sunroof, and straightforward Apple CarPlay/Android Auto setup. The 1.5-liter turbo and CVT feel adequate rather than exciting, and the aging design and lack of meaningful updates are obvious. Ultimately, he views the Malibu as a competent, practical sedan that works well as transportation, but feels disappointed Chevrolet let a once-important nameplate fade away without a proper sendoff.
Gold PonyGold Pony is clearly positive about the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu, especially its styling, comfort, value, and fuel economy. The test drive found acceleration adequate for highway merging, firm, confidence-inspiring brakes, pleasant ride quality, manageable road noise, and a surprisingly upscale-feeling LS interior. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, remote start, a roomy trunk, and strong rear visibility add practical appeal. Still, the Malibu feels dated, with halogen lighting on lower trims, only front-wheel drive, a single turbo-CVT powertrain, mediocre base-audio clarity, and no hybrid option. Gold Pony ultimately likes it, while wishing Chevrolet had modernized it before ending production.
Shooting CarsZack Pradel is warmly impressed by the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu, while mourning its quiet demise. He appreciates its comfortable ride, easy-to-read gauges, roomy rear seat and trunk, heated and ventilated seats, sunroof, and straightforward Apple CarPlay/Android Auto setup. The 1.5-liter turbo and CVT feel adequate rather than exciting, and the aging design and lack of meaningful updates are obvious. Ultimately, he views the Malibu as a competent, practical sedan that works well as transportation, but feels disappointed Chevrolet let a once-important nameplate fade away without a proper sendoff.
Gold PonyGold Pony is clearly positive about the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu, especially its styling, comfort, value, and fuel economy. The test drive found acceleration adequate for highway merging, firm, confidence-inspiring brakes, pleasant ride quality, manageable road noise, and a surprisingly upscale-feeling LS interior. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, remote start, a roomy trunk, and strong rear visibility add practical appeal. Still, the Malibu feels dated, with halogen lighting on lower trims, only front-wheel drive, a single turbo-CVT powertrain, mediocre base-audio clarity, and no hybrid option. Gold Pony ultimately likes it, while wishing Chevrolet had modernized it before ending production.
Shooting CarsZack Pradel is warmly impressed by the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu, while mourning its quiet demise. He appreciates its comfortable ride, easy-to-read gauges, roomy rear seat and trunk, heated and ventilated seats, sunroof, and straightforward Apple CarPlay/Android Auto setup. The 1.5-liter turbo and CVT feel adequate rather than exciting, and the aging design and lack of meaningful updates are obvious. Ultimately, he views the Malibu as a competent, practical sedan that works well as transportation, but feels disappointed Chevrolet let a once-important nameplate fade away without a proper sendoff.
Gold PonyGold Pony is clearly positive about the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu, especially its styling, comfort, value, and fuel economy. The test drive found acceleration adequate for highway merging, firm, confidence-inspiring brakes, pleasant ride quality, manageable road noise, and a surprisingly upscale-feeling LS interior. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, remote start, a roomy trunk, and strong rear visibility add practical appeal. Still, the Malibu feels dated, with halogen lighting on lower trims, only front-wheel drive, a single turbo-CVT powertrain, mediocre base-audio clarity, and no hybrid option. Gold Pony ultimately likes it, while wishing Chevrolet had modernized it before ending production.
Social
1 INFLUENCER REVIEW
Bank Seized Cars For SaleBank Seized Cars For Sale gives the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu RS a measured, mildly skeptical assessment. The Nightshade color, 18-inch machined alloy wheels, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and practical USB-A/USB-C ports are appealing, but the final-year sedan feels dated with its base infotainment system and black-cloth cabin. The 1.5-liter turbo engine and CVT provide ordinary specifications, while missing heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and wireless charging are clear omissions. Rear passengers get a 12-volt outlet but no connectivity, an “odd choice” that captures the reviewer’s lukewarm impression.
Forum Reviews
CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 1 FORUM
Redditors are mixed but slightly positive on the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu, valuing comfort and affordability more than excitement. Owners appreciate its roomy cabin, attractive styling, fuel economy, smooth cruising, and potential longevity with maintenance. Several buyers consider it a sensible sedan, especially when discounted or backed by a warranty. Still, skepticism centers on the aging design, dated interior and technology, limited engine choices, mediocre acceleration, and uneven reliability or fuel-economy reports. Some strongly prefer Honda or Toyota for long-term dependability, while others defend the Malibu—particularly versions with the stronger 2.0-liter engine.
Many comments
In-Depth Review
Highlights
- •Quiet Comfortable RideDesigned for relaxed, low-noise commuting.
- •Roomy Rear SeatingRoomy rear seat supports family travel.
- •Wireless Phone IntegrationPromoted as seamless cable-free connectivity.
- •Practical Trunk SpaceLarge cargo area handles everyday luggage.
Considerations
- •Leisurely AccelerationPassing and merging take extra planning.
- •Aging Cabin TechnologySmall screen and dated materials show age.
- •Limited Safety CoverageBlind-spot alerts vary by configuration.
- •No Spare TireFlat tires may require roadside assistance.
The 2025 Chevrolet Malibu is a value-focused sedan from a brand better known for practical, mainstream transportation. As its final gasoline model year, it serves commuters, small families, and sedan loyalists who want a conventional car rather than an SUV, with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine and CVT aimed at smooth everyday travel—not thrills. Expert and owner impressions point to a quiet, comfortable ride, useful efficiency, and generous passenger space, while newer Camry, Accord, and hybrid rivals generally offer quicker performance and fresher technology. The following sections examine how its acceleration, handling, fuel use, rear-seat room, safety equipment, and 15.7-cubic-foot trunk affect real-world ownership. If simple, affordable transportation sounds right, review the details closely—the Malibu may be a sensible old-school sedan, but even a “flip phone” deserves a careful signal check.
Cabin Space
The Malibu works well as an everyday family sedan because its roomy rear seat gives passengers useful legroom and its controls are easy to understand. The five-seat cabin feels comfortable for commuting, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make the basic 8-inch infotainment system more useful than its age suggests. Higher trims can add heated and ventilated front seats, but rear amenities are sparse. The dated materials and technology are noticeable, yet passenger space remains a genuine practical strength.
Ride And Handling
Comfort is the Malibu’s strongest driving trait. Its cushioned ride and supportive seats absorb daily road imperfections well, and reviewers describe the cabin as quiet and relaxed during cruising. Steering is generally easy and predictable, with the LT Redline earning praise for sharper response and surprisingly nimble handling. The trade-off is limited excitement, plus larger 19-inch wheels can add road noise. User feedback broadly supports the comfortable character, but this remains a calm sedan rather than a sporty one.
Fuel Economy
The Malibu delivers practical, if not class-leading, efficiency. Chevrolet’s turbocharged engine uses regular gasoline and is rated around 28 mpg city and 36 mpg highway, with combined estimates near 30 to 32 mpg depending on the source and configuration. That helps keep routine commuting affordable, and reviewers generally consider highway economy respectable. However, newer Camry, Accord, and hybrid competitors can travel farther on a gallon, so the Malibu’s efficiency supports its value without making it a segment leader.
Safety Equipment
The Malibu has a solid baseline, but its safety technology varies by trim. Standard lane departure warning and steering assist, a rear-seat reminder, and the reported five-star overall NHTSA rating provide useful reassurance. However, the rating should not obscure weaker details, including a disappointing IIHS side-impact result and limited standard driver assistance. Blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert are available rather than universally included, so buyers should verify equipment carefully. Safety-conscious shoppers may find newer rivals more comprehensively equipped.
Engine Performance
The Malibu’s 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder is tuned for commuting rather than excitement. Its 163 horsepower and 249.47 Nm of torque work smoothly with the CVT, and reviewers generally find highway merging adequate, but acceleration remains leisurely at roughly 8.5 seconds from 0–60 mph. Hard acceleration can produce noticeable CVT drone, while one test found a slight delay as boost arrives at highway speeds. The straightforward powertrain suits relaxed drivers, though quicker rivals feel more confident when passing.
Trunk Usability
The Malibu’s 15.7-cubic-foot trunk is one of its most useful features. It provides practical room for groceries, luggage, and small-family errands, while the conventional sedan shape keeps loading straightforward. Reviewers consistently praise the cargo area, and the spacious rear seat means the car serves both passenger and carrying duties well. The missing spare tire is an important ownership drawback, however, since a flat may require relying on tire sealant or roadside assistance. Overall usability is strong for this class.
Conclusion
The Malibu’s final chapter reads like a sensible daily commuter rather than a dramatic farewell: its 1.5-liter turbo and CVT deliver adequate but leisurely acceleration, while the cushioned ride, predictable handling, and quiet cabin earn praise from experts and owners alike. Fuel economy is useful for routine travel, though newer hybrids go farther on a gallon. Its roomy rear seat and 15.7-cubic-foot trunk make it genuinely practical for small families, and wireless smartphone integration helps offset aging cabin technology. Safety is acceptable, with lane-assistance features and a five-star NHTSA rating reported, but available—not standard—blind-spot monitoring and a weaker IIHS side-impact result deserve attention. Choose it for comfort, space, straightforward controls, and a discounted price; skip it if you want quick performance, cutting-edge tech, or maximum safety coverage. It earns a measured recommendation as affordable, uncomplicated transportation—not a segment leader.
Feature Scores
This reflects reviews and ratings from established critics, journalists, and users who have evaluated the item. Their opinions provide a comprehensive assessment.
Performance
Engine Power
3/5
Acceleration
2/5
Reliability & Durability
3/5
Handling & Ride Comfort
4/5
Braking Performance
4/5
Value
Purchase Price Competitiveness
4/5
Cost of Ownership
3/5
Resale Value
2/5
Feature Value
4/5
Design
Exterior Styling
4/5
Interior Ergonomics
4/5
Cargo Space
4/5
Infotainment Quality
4/5
Health
Cabin Air Quality
TBD
Material Toxicity
TBD
Safety
Crashworthiness
4/5
Active Safety Systems
3/5
Visibility & Lighting
3/5
Child Occupant Protection
3/5
Sustainability
Fuel Efficiency
4/5
Tailpipe Emissions
3/5
Recyclability
TBD
Manufacturing Footprint
TBD
Experience Style
Driver Engagement
3/5
Customization Options
3/5
Ease of Use
4/5
Ownership Convenience
4/5
Specifications
This section outlines the product's key facts, covering essential features, details, dimensions, materials, and any unique characteristics that define its functionality and usability.
Performance
Value
Design
Safety
Sustainability
Experience Style
Frequently Asked Questions
7 Questions
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Answer to find your best matches.
