Rumors that the Chevy Malibu is going to be discontinued aren’t quite true. It’s back for the 2024 model year, and many people are shocked that it’s still in production. So, what does the new-ish (kind of) Chevy Malibu have to offer to car shoppers, and what does its potential future hold?

The Chevrolet Malibu isn’t overly powerful

There aren’t a ton of sedans left on the market, as Ford has scrapped all of its options, so this may be part of the reason why the Chevy Malibu is still on the market. If you buy one, however, don’t expect a ton of power.

Chevrolet’s Pressroom reports the 2024 model comes equipped with a 163 hp 1.5L Turbo 1-4 engine, which is paired with a continuously variable transmission. The Malibu gets a combined 30 mpg.

There isn’t a ton of room, which isn’t shocking, as this is a sedan. The 2024 model offers 102.9 cu.-ft. of passenger volume, and 15.7 cu.-ft. of cargo volume.

Teen driving mode comes standard, as well as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. Most safety features are not standard, but you can choose to add automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.

What makes the Chevy Malibu an attractive option for shoppers is the price. It has an MSRP range of $25,795 to $32,595. For families who need a new car, but can’t afford a luxury vehicle, the 2024 Malibu is an attractive option. Should you be interested in buying the 2023 model, however?

Are there any real changes on the 2024 Chevrolet Malibu?

When you compare the 2024 and the 2023 Malibu, there aren’t a ton of changes. In fact, Edmunds points out there are no major changes at all. Autoblog agrees, and goes on to point out that it’s not a big deal.

The biggest change is the base trim now costs $100 more. It starts at $26,195, as compared to $26,095 for the 2023 model. The Dark Ash Metallic and Riverside Blue Metallic exterior colors were retired in favor of the Lakeshore Blue Metallic.

Other changes include body-colored mirrors on the LS trim. Sadly, the LS is losing a 16-inch compact spare and emergency tool kit, and this will be replaced with a tire inflator kit. Given all this, you may be better off buying the 2023 model.

Where does the Chevy Malibu go from here?

We’re not quite sure what happens next for the Chevy Malibu. There are many rumors swirling around, and no one seems to be on the same page about the possible future of the Malibu. 

On the other hand, Car and Driver is reporting that there is a new Ultium-based EV coming to China, which could eventually make its way to the U.S. When this happens, it will take the Malibu’s place as Chevy’s sedan option. Autoblog seems to agree with Car and Driver, as it pointed out that Automotive News believes the Malibu will finally meet its end in 2026. 

So which rumor is true? We have no idea. What we do know is that there has been a recent increase in sales that may help sway Chevrolet to keep producing the Malibu. Considering that its sales have surged 200% in recent months, this may be exactly the ammunition needed to keep the Malibu around for at least a few more years.