Chevy Malibu vs Impala: Which Wins?
Picking between the Chevy Malibu and Impala can be tough. Each car has its perks aimed at different desires. This face-off covers key factors like power, safety, perks, and price.
You’ll figure out which sedan fits your life best by the end. Let’s dive deep into what each model brings to the table.
The Impala’s stronger V6 and V8 engines mean quicker getaways, but the Malibu wins on saving gas for daily drives.
We’ll also check out their features, from cushy seats to cool tech, and safety scores to see how secure they are. Plus, we’ll compare their prices, whether you’re buying new or used.
This guide aims to help you spot which Chevy sedan suits you best. We’re starting with the Chevy Malibu. So, let’s get going.
Introduction
When you’re thinking about buying a new car, you might compare the Chevy Malibu and Impala.
This chevy malibu vs impala review will show you what’s important about each model. This way, you can choose based on performance, comfort, cost, and safety.
Both the Chevy Malibu and Impala have their good points. The Malibu is more compact and saves on gas.
But, the Impala offers more room and power. This article will give you all the details you need. You’ll be able to make a smart choice between them.
Overview of The Chevy Malibu
The Chevy Malibu is a dependable midsize sedan that mixes price with high efficiency. Owners like its modern look and useful features.
It stands out in its category. Learning about the Chevy Malibu’s key points and specs can help you see if it’s right for your next vehicle.
Key Features of The Chevy Malibu
The Chevy Malibu shines with its tech and comfort. It comes with great standard features. These include:
- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for easy phone use
- A roomy and comfy interior, perfect for everyday drives
- Top-notch safety options for more protection
Chevy Malibu Specs and Performance
The Chevy Malibu’s performance is notable because of its efficient engine. It has 160 horsepower for quick responses. Plus, its specs have:
| Engine Type | Horsepower | Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5L 4-cylinder | 160 hp | 32 MPG |
These Chevy Malibu specs show a car that’s good for daily use and saves money with its fuel efficiency. Its 8.2 quality rating places the Malibu high in the midsize car category.
Overview of The Chevy Impala
The Chevy Impala is a top choice for those who love big cars. It offers a comfy ride with a spacious inside. The cabin’s design features top-notch materials that make traveling a joy.
For safety, the Impala is packed with features like lane departure warnings and collision alerts. This makes every trip safe and sound.
Key Features of The Chevy Impala
Key features of the Chevy Impala include:
- Plenty of room for all passengers, ensuring a comfortable ride
- Top-of-the-line audio options for superior sound quality
- An easy-to-use modern infotainment system
Chevy Impala Specs and Performance
The Chevy Impala offers strong performance thanks to its 305-horsepower base engine. However, it’s less fuel-efficient, with an average of 16 MPG.
Despite this, it has a high quality rating of 8.6. This rating highlights its comfort and satisfaction levels among similar cars.
Chevy Malibu vs Impala: Price Comparison
Comparing prices between the Chevy Malibu and Impala shows big differences. These differences match various budgets and tastes.
If you look at both new and used prices, along with ownership costs, you can choose wisely.
New and Used Prices
The used car market offers a mix of prices for the 2020 models of these two cars. The Chevy Malibu’s price range from $13,982 to $22,899 makes it a great deal for used car shoppers.
On the other hand, the Impala’s price ranges from $15,994 to $26,933. If buying new, the Malibu starts at a lower price compared to the Impala, which may sway your decision.
Cost of Ownership
Looking at the full cost of owning a car is key. For example, Malibu’s average yearly repair cost is about $532, while the Impala’s is roughly $568.
This difference in maintenance expenses makes the Malibu a more cost-effective choice over time.
| Model | Used Price Range | New MSRP | Average Annual Repair Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chevy Malibu | $13,982 – $22,899 | Starting from $22,500 | $532 |
| Chevy Impala | $15,994 – $26,933 | Starting from $31,000 | $568 |
Performance Comparison: Chevy Malibu and Impala
The Chevy Malibu and Impala both have their own strong points. By looking at their engine power, fuel efficiency, and how they handle, you can pick the one that fits what you need.
Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency
The Chevy Malibu shines when it comes to saving gas. It can get up to 32 MPG on the highway, which is great for daily driving.
The Chevy Impala, however, packs more punch with 305 horsepower. But, this power makes it use more gas, which might not be ideal for saving money on fuel.
Driving Dynamics and Handling
The Malibu is quick and easy to handle, perfect for city streets and tight spots. Its lightness makes it easy to drive in traffic.
The Impala, though, feels more solid on open roads. It’s bigger and has a stronger engine, giving you a smoother ride at high speeds.
| Aspect | Chevy Malibu | Chevy Impala |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Efficiency (Highway) | Up to 32 MPG | Approx. 28 MPG |
| Horsepower | 160 HP | 305 HP |
| Driving Feel | Nimble and agile | Robust and confident |
| City Driving Suitability | Excellent | Good |
| Highway Driving Suitability | Good | Excellent |
Interior Space and Comfort
When looking at the Chevy Malibu and Impala, a few things change the game. Knowing how the Malibu differs from the Impala helps you choose the right car for you.
Passenger Space Overview
The Chevy Malibu has 102.9 cubic feet inside, which is roomy for its class. The Impala is a bit bigger, with 105 cubic feet.
Many say that the Malibu, though smaller, has plenty of legroom in the back. This is great for families or people who often have others riding along.
Trunk Space Comparison
Trunk size matters too. With 18.8 cubic feet, the Impala’s trunk is larger than the Malibu’s, which is 15.8 cubic feet.
If you need more space for luggage or groceries, the Impala wins. This shows the main differences between the Malibu and Impala you should think about.
Safety Ratings and Features
When comparing the Chevy Malibu and Impala, both show good safety ratings. But, they have some differences. Knowing how each car does in safety tests can help you decide which to buy.
NHTSA and IIHS Ratings
The NHTSA and IIHS give important safety information. The Chevy Impala gets a perfect 5-star rating from NHTSA.
This shows it’s very safe and protective. On the other hand, the Chevy Malibu has a 4.3-star rating. It’s safe but not as much as the Impala.
Standard and Optional Safety Features
The Chevy Malibu and Impala come with many safety features to keep passengers safe. Here are some safety parts in the Malibu:
- Advanced airbags
- Traction control
- Stability control
The Impala adds more safety options like:
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane-keeping assist
- Adaptive cruise control
If you value safety most, comparing these features shows the Impala has more advanced tech.
Reliability and Maintenance
Learning how reliable your vehicle is helps you make a smart choice about owning it. The Chevy Malibu and Chevy Impala are both reliable cars. They give you peace of mind while driving.
Reliability Ratings For Chevy Malibu
The Chevy Malibu has a reliability score of 8.2 out of 10. This shows it’s well-made and doesn’t have many big problems.
People like how it drives every day without needing a lot of repairs. This makes the Malibu known for being dependable.
Reliability Ratings For Chevy Impala
The Chevy Impala, however, has a slightly higher reliability score of 8.5 out of 10. This means it might be a bit more reliable than the Malibu.
But, the cost to keep both cars running is about the same. This makes them both good for those watching their budget.
The Impala and the Malibu are both less likely to need big repairs often. This is something to think about when looking at Chevy Impala’s reliability compared to Malibu’s.
Resale Value and Depreciation
Knowing the resale value of a car is key for smart financial planning. The Chevy Malibu and Chevy Impala show how depreciation affects their worth over time.
Depreciation Rates For Chevy Malibu
The Chevy Malibu tends to hold its value better than many others. It drops about 43.7% of its worth in five years.
This makes the Malibu a solid choice for those thinking about selling later on.
Depreciation Rates For Chevy Impala
On the other hand, the Chevy Impala loses value faster, with a 51.3% drop in five years.
This quicker fall in value means its long-term cost-effectiveness is not as strong, especially for reselling.
| Vehicle Model | Five-Year Depreciation Rate | Value Retained |
|---|---|---|
| Chevy Malibu | 43.7% | 56.3% |
| Chevy Impala | 51.3% | 48.7% |
User Reviews and Satisfaction
Learning from users sheds light on the Chevy Malibu and Impala. The feedback highlights their distinct strengths.
Many say the Chevy Malibu offers great value and reliability. It’s seen as an economical pick for everyday use. Owners like its smooth ride and how it saves gas.
Owner Feedback on Chevy Malibu
Fans of the Chevy Malibu praise many features. They talk about:
- Impressive fuel economy for long trips.
- A comfortable interior for both the driver and passengers.
- Advanced tech that improves driving.
These points lead to high praise in chevy malibu user reviews, with reliability often highlighted.
Owner Feedback on Chevy Impala
Impala users focus on the car’s spaciousness and luxury. They mention:
- Lots of space inside, perfect for big families or groups.
- Comfort on long drives, making trips easier.
- Easy handling for a stress-free drive.
The chevy impala user reviews commonly praise these aspects. They show how the Impala excels in offering a smooth and comfortable ride.
Final Verdict: Which is Better?
Choosing between the Chevy Malibu and Impala depends on what you value more. If saving on gas is a priority, the Malibu is a standout choice.
It’s great for everyday use and long trips. If you need more room and comfort, the Impala shines. It’s perfect for family trips and carrying lots of stuff.
Both cars are safe and reliable. But, the best option depends on your needs. Think about your budget too. The cost of owning a car and its resale value are important.
These things can affect how happy you are with your car over time. So, consider what you really need from a car.
This will help you decide. If you want good mileage, go for the Malibu. If space is key, choose the Impala. Each car has its own advantages.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Chevy Malibu and Impala depends on what’s important to you. The Malibu is great for those who care about saving money and keeping their car’s value.
Even if it’s a bit behind the Impala in quality, it’s still good for everyday driving. The Impala, however, is for those who want more power and space.
It has a strong engine and lots of room, making it perfect for comfortable drives. Its reliability and safety features make it a top choice for families.
In the end, it’s all about what matches your driving needs and what you value most.
Whether it’s the cost-effective Malibu or the roomy Impala, picking the one that fits your life will make you happy in the long run.
FAQs
What are the key differences between the Chevy Malibu and Impala?
The main differences are size, performance, and features. The Malibu is midsize, focused on saving gas and being affordable. The Impala is bigger, offers more room, and stronger performance.
Which car has better fuel efficiency, the Malibu or the Impala?
The Chevy Malibu is more fuel-efficient, getting about 32 MPG in total. On the other hand, the Impala gets around 16 MPG because it has a stronger engine.
How do the safety ratings compare between the Malibu and Impala?
The Chevy Impala has a top safety rating of 5 stars from the NHTSA. The Malibu scores 4.3 stars. Moreover, the Impala comes with advanced safety options that the Malibu doesn’t have.
What is the price range for new and used models of both vehicles?
For used cars, a 2020 Chevy Malibu costs between ,982 and ,899. The Impala’s price ranges from ,994 to ,933. New Malibus are generally cheaper than new Impalas.
Which car is more reliable according to ratings?
Both cars have similar reliability scores, with the Malibu rated at 8.2 out of 10 and the Impala at 8.5. The Malibu usually needs fewer and less serious repairs.
How do the trunk sizes compare between the Malibu and Impala?
The Chevy Impala has more trunk space, 18.8 cubic feet, than the Malibu, which has 15.8 cubic feet. This makes the Impala better for those who need more room for their stuff.
Which vehicle retains its value better over time?
The Chevy Malibu holds its value better over five years, losing about 43.7% compared to the Impala’s 51.3% depreciation. This makes the Malibu a smarter choice for those thinking about resale value.
