The Malibu’s primary competitors are the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry and Nissan Altima. Notably absent from the group are cars like the Ford Fusion and Dodge Avenger/Chrysler Sebring, which the Malibu handily outclasses. It makes a strong case for itself at the front of the class, and is good enough that the differences will likely come down to consumer preference rather than objectively measurable advantages in any one direction or the other. The only major advantage any of its competitors has is the Accord’s newfound size, which makes for a notably roomier cabin than the Malibu, and a larger and more usable cargo area.
Specifications
Test Vehicle: 2008 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ Price Range: $19,995 - $26,995 Engine Size and Type: 3.6-liter V-6 Engine Horsepower: 252 hp Engine Torque: 251 lb.-ft. Transmission: six-speed automatic Curb Weight, lbs.: 3,649 EPA Fuel Economy (city/highway): 17/26 Observed Fuel Economy: 22.4 Length: 191.8 in. Width: 70.3 in. Wheelbase: 112.3 in. Height: 57.1 in. Leg room (front/rear): 42.2 in./37.6 in. Head room (front/rear): 39.4 in./37.2 in. Max. Seating Capacity: 5 Max. Cargo Volume: 15.1 Competitors: Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion, Dodge Avenger, Chrysler Sebring, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Mercury Milan, Mazda 6, Mitsubishi Galant, Pontiac G6, Saturn Aura, Subaru Legacy, Volkswagen Passat
