2017 Chevrolet Malibu: Reviews, Prices, Ratings and Specs (2024)

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We almost always recommend against Chevrolets in base-level trim, and the Malibu is no exception. The midlevel LT model represents the best value. Coming close is the more costly Premier edition, because it adds quite a hefty selection of notable features. You might want to consider the Premier as an alternative to sedans from more expensive near-luxury brands.

Prices for the Chevrolet Malibu start at $22,555 (including $875 in destination charges) for the base L trim, but most buyers will likely choose the mid-level 1LT for its $26,000 starting price and standard features that include:

• 17-inch alloy wheels
• Rearview camera
• Bluetooth audio and phone capability
• Standard 7-inch or optional 8-inch touchscreen infotainment
• LED daytime running lights
• Heated power outside rearview mirrors with integrated turn signals

All models other than the base L trim come with a standard rearview camera. But the Malibu's advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking and Chevrolet's new "Front Pedestrian Alert" system are only available as options on the top two trim levels – the LT and Premier.

The 2017 Chevrolet Malibu is available with three engines. Most of the lineup is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that's paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Premier trim gets a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder and a nine-speed automatic, while the Hybrid trim returns with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder, a pair of electric motors, and a 1.5-kilowatt-hour battery pack.

• Other than on long grades and some highway passing, it's easy to mistake the 1.5-liter turbo for a bigger engine.
• With plenty of low-end torque, the 2.0-liter turbo easily takes the place of a V6 in the Malibu lineup. For 2017, this engine is paired with a new nine-speed automatic transmission.
• The Malibu Hybrid weighs just 100 pounds more than the 2LT, so it feels nearly as nimble. The only downside is a little less trunk space.

• The suspension isn't particularly performance-tuned and favors comfort over any serious edge.
• The 1.5-liter runs out of steam at just 5,200 rpm. Rev it any higher and it just makes more noise – not more speed.
• The gasoline engine in the Hybrid is noisier than in the non-hybrid models.

• Spacious for a mid-size sedan with a lower dash that helps open up the cockpit.
• Most adults will find the Malibu's seats supportive for all-day drives.
• Thoughtful touches include console padding at the knee and more bolstering and length in the seats.
• Active noise cancellation and generous sound deadening make for a mostly quiet ride.

• Cloth seats aren't terribly nice.
• A swoopy roofline limits rear headroom for taller passengers.
• Base models are trimmed in cheap-looking nylon cloth.
• Non-hybrid models get 15.8 cubic feet of cargo space, while Hybrid Malibu only has 11.6 cubic feet due to the placement of batteries.