Name: 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
Brand: Chevrolet

Chevrolet Malibu

EPA MPG: 26 mpg

Owner Reported MPG:

EPA MPG: 26 mpg

Owner Reported MPG:

RECALL ALERT: There are 6 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 6 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

Owner Reports

Owner Satisfaction Owner Satisfaction

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2003

2004

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2008

2009

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2020

2021

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2023

2024

Driving Experience

Comfort

Value

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Chevrolet vs. Other New Car Brands

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2009 Midsized cars Ratings

2009 Chevrolet Malibu

$3,400 - $5,425

EPA MPG 26 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2009 Chrysler Sebring

$3,200 - $4,275

EPA MPG 25 mpg

Road test

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2009 Dodge Avenger

$3,525 - $3,775

EPA MPG 19 mpg

Road test

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2009 Ford Fusion

$4,525 - $5,325

EPA MPG 24 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2009 Honda Accord

$6,225 - $6,975

EPA MPG 24 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2009 Hyundai Genesis

$5,300 - $5,325

EPA MPG 21 mpg

Road test

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2009 Hyundai Sonata

$4,725 - $5,475

EPA MPG 26 mpg

Road test

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2009 Kia Optima

$4,800 - $5,025

EPA MPG 26 mpg

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2009 Mazda 6

$5,225 - $5,275

EPA MPG 24 mpg

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2009 Mercury Milan

$4,300 - $5,225

EPA MPG 27 mpg

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2009 Mitsubishi Galant

$4,025 - $4,775

EPA MPG NA

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2009 Nissan Altima

$4,325 - $5,400

EPA MPG 29 mpg

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2009 Pontiac G6

$3,625 - $5,325

EPA MPG 18 mpg

Road test

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Owner Satisfaction

2009 Saab 9-5

$4,650 - $5,825

EPA MPG 22 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2009 Saturn Aura

$3,800 - $4,700

EPA MPG 26 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2009 Subaru Legacy

$4,500 - $7,675

EPA MPG 23 mpg

Road test

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Owner Satisfaction

2009 Toyota Camry

$6,350 - $7,325

EPA MPG 39 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2009 Toyota Camry Hybrid

$6,350 - $7,325

EPA MPG 34 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2009 Volkswagen CC

$3,850 - $4,475

EPA MPG 22 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2009 Volkswagen Passat

$3,650 - $4,225

EPA MPG 25 mpg

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Model History

2016-

Current Generation

Completely redesigned for 2016, the Malibu is much sleeker than the boxy sedan it replaced. A new 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine became the base engine, improving fuel economy to 29 mpg overall. A 2.0-liter turbo four cylinder remained the up level engine choice until it was dropped in 2023, and was mated to a new eight-speed automatic. The hybrid powertrain is all new, with dramatically improved fuel economy. Rear-seat room is also much improved, while the car's composed and compliant ride and quiet cabin remain. For 2019, the 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is paired to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Chevrolet dropped the hybrid model for 2020. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity was new for 2021. For 2023, forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection became standard. Blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning became optional. Updates for 2024 included standard rear park assist, which provides alerts identifying nearby objects behind the vehicle. 2025 is the final model year for the Malibu.

2013-2015

2013 Redesign Year

The V6 engine option was dropped, but the normally aspirated and turbocharged four-cylinder engines are quiet and refined in operation. The rear seat is tight, but the LT model is nicely equipped overall. We suggest opting for leather seats, as the standard cloth seats have scratchy fabric and so-so cushion support. Also skip the Eco model; you can get the same fuel economy for much less money. The 2014 models have slightly more rear-seat room. Changes for 2015 include a standard built-in Wi-Fi hotspot.

2008-2012

2008 Redesign Year

A 2008 redesign made the Malibu quieter, more responsive, and gave it a more comfortable ride. We considered it to be among the best family sedans. The interior is significantly upgraded, with better materials and improved fit and finish. A mild-hybrid powertrain was also offered for this model year. Stability control became a standard Malibu feature for 2009.

2004-2007

2004 Redesign Year

Available as a sedan or four-door hatchback, the 2004 Malibu is a solid, well-rounded competitor, with good fuel economy from the available V6, as well as responsive handling and a supple ride. Look for one with side-curtain airbags. This version of the Malibu scored a Poor in IIHS crash tests without them.

1997-2003

1997 Redesign Year

Although it has changed little since its 1997 introduction, the Malibu still provides good basic transportation and holds its own among low-priced V6 sedans. It costs less than a four-cylinder-equipped Honda Accord or Toyota Camry, but lacks the refinement of those models. Handling is fairly nimble, but tire grip gives out easily at the limits. The standard 3.1-liter, 170-hp V6 gets the job done but isn't very refined. The ride is compliant though a bit jiggly. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly. The interior is roomy, with a rear seat that's actually more comfortable than the one in the larger Impala. The front seats are fairly comfortable, and the controls are logical. Many interior fittings feel insubstantial and cheap.

Chevrolet Malibu

2009 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

Crash and Rollover Tests

Crash and Rollover Tests

Chevrolet vs. Other New Car Brands

Owner Reports

Chevrolet vs. Other New Car Brands

Chevrolet vs. Other New Car Brands

Crash and Rollover Tests

2009 Midsized cars Ratings