Overview

What's New for 2023

The 2023 Chevrolet Malibu is available in four trim levels: LS, RS, 1LT, and 2LT. The 1LT is the popular model, and it gets our recommendation as well. We'll explain why.

LS

Priced at $25,795 (including a $1,095 destination fee), the entry-level LS includes 16-inch alloy wheels, a capless fuel fill, automatic on-off headlights, a six-speaker audio system, six-way manually adjustable driver and front passenger seats, a 60/40-split folding rear seat, keyless entry, and keyless start. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

RS

The RS ($26,795) gives the sedan a performance-oriented look even though it's still powered by the base engine, not the more powerful 2.0-liter turbo. Outside it has a dual-outlet exhaust, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a black Malibu badge. The Chevy "bowtie" badges are black, too. Interior updates are highlighted by an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

1LT

The LT ($29,195) is the first of two luxury-oriented Malibu models. It's equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, body-color exterior mirrors, LED daytime running lights, and LED taillights. Inside it features dual-zone automatic climate control, heated seats, and remote start. We prefer this trim for its low cost and high content level.

2LT

Priced at $32,595, the 2LT is the most well-equipped of the lineup. It has 19-inch aluminum wheels, body-colored mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators, and a dual-pane sunroof. The infotainment offers navigation and a nine-speaker Bose audio system.

The Chevrolet Malibu boasts a large interior that is right in line with its competitors. It can transport a family of five in simple comfort. There is plenty of head-, shoulder, hip, and legroom for adults throughout the cabin. The interior is attractively styled and well-trimmed. The top-of-the-line 2LT has an abundance of premium-looking soft-touch materials. Lower models get cloth-covered seats instead of synthetic- or leather seats.

The Malibu provides generous trunk space, although it is not markedly larger than its competitors. With 15.7 cubic feet of capacity, five passengers will have plenty of room to stow their luggage. With its split-fold rear seat, the Malibu can accommodate larger items.

The 2023 Chevrolet Malibu has not yet been officially rated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), but the nearly identical 2022 Malibu received four out of five stars. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) rated the Malibu Good in five crashworthiness categories and Poor in the updated side collision test.

The Malibu offers several active safety and driver-assist features, though many are in optional packages. The Driver Confidence I package (available on the LS, RS, and LT trims) includes rear park assist, lane-change alert with blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. The more sophisticated Driver Confidence I & II package (available on LS, RS, and LT models) adds automatic headlights, lane-keeping assist, lane-departure warning, following distance indicator, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. The Enhanced Driver Confidence package (available on the 2LT) adds adaptive cruise control, automatic parking assist, enhanced automatic emergency braking, and an electronic parking brake.

While not leading edge, the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu is roomy and comfortable, and it has plenty of trunk space. Its infotainment system is high-tech and easy to use. Numerous electronic driving aids are available, but many are optional and only available on upper-level models. Some are only available on the top 2LT trim. Other good midsize-sedan choices include the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Hyundai Sonata, all of which also offer hybrid-powered versions.

Chevrolet Malibu vs. Honda Accord

Chevrolet Malibu vs. Hyundai Sonata

Chevrolet Malibu vs. Toyota Camry