Contrary to swirling cancellation rumors, the 2024 Chevy Malibu has remained relevant, albeit with an uncertain future. Though it receives minor updates and is competitively priced for the 2024 model year, it faces fierce competition in the midsize sedan segment. 

This article will explore the specifications, features, pricing, and other essential details of the 2024 Chevy Malibu. Additionally, we will compare it to four notable rivals in the market: the Hyundai Sonata, Kia K5, Nissan Altima, and Subaru Legacy. 

The 2024 Chevy Malibu

The 2024 Chevy Malibu brings a familiar design and a comfortable cabin. It offers seating for up to five passengers and boasts a spacious trunk. Under the hood, it comes equipped with a standard 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 160 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque.

The Malibu features an 8-inch infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various safety features such as forward collision warning with automatic braking and lane-keeping assist. The starting price for the 2024 Chevy Malibu is expected to be around $26,195.

It comes in four models, the LS, the RS, LT, and 2LT. The LS model is the base model and comes with some pretty standard equipment, including remote engine start, cruise control, and keyless entry and ignition. The RS has a sportier look and 18-inch aluminum wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and rear spoiler.  

According to Edmunds, the most popular model is the LT. It has heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and heated outside mirrors. The 2LT includes all of the above, adding leather seats, an upgraded infotainment screen with navigation, and wireless device charging.

Now, let’s take a closer look at its competitors

• Hyundai Sonata:

The Hyundai Sonata is a stylish and well-rounded midsize sedan that offers comparable features to the Malibu. It comes with a choice of engines, including a base 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, or if you need more power, you can go with the sportier N-Line that comes with a 2.5-liter turbo. With its attractive starting price of around $25,250 and a choice of eight trims, the Sonata offers great value for money.

• Kia K5:

The Kia K5 is a sporty and dynamic midsize sedan with a starting price of $25,390. It offers two engine options, including a base 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and there is also an all-wheel drive option. The K5 GT has a 2.5L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine and delivers 290 hp and 311 lb.-ft. of torque that can achieve 0-60 mph in as low as 5.7 seconds. It has an 8-speed dual-clutch auto transmission, sport-tuned suspension, 19-inch alloy wheels, and gloss black machine finish.

• Nissan Altima:

In many aspects, the Chevy Malibu and Nissan Altima are nearly identical. The Altima has a starting at $25,490, more advanced electronics, and is available with all-wheel drive. Furthermore, the Altima’s turbocharged engine upgrade outperforms the Malibu in terms of performance. The Malibu, on the other hand, offers greater rear passenger and cargo capacity, so if that’s what you’re looking for in a midsize sedan, the Chevy is worth considering over the Nissan.

• Subaru Legacy:

The Subaru Legacy starts at $24,895 and is a standout option for those seeking all-weather capability and safety. It comes equipped with standard all-wheel drive, making it a reliable choice for various driving conditions. The Legacy offers two engine choices: a base 2.5-liter four-cylinder and an available 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It features a comfortable and spacious interior, a user-friendly infotainment system, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation System3 on its top-tier models.

Is the Malibu going to get a refresh?

GM Authority announced Chevy’s commitment to keep the Malibu for at least one more generation in late December 2022. Because the majority of Chevrolet’s next-generation vehicles are expected to hit the market in 2025, the 2024 Chevy Malibu is a carryover. The ninth-generation sedan received its most recent update for the 2019 model year. GM has reduced trim levels and introduced a few more basic safety features since then.

However, it is due for a facelift so that consumers may get a next-generation upgrade for the year 2025.

While the 2024 Chevy Malibu receives minor updates and boasts an attractive price, it faces tough competition in the midsize sedan market. Rivals such as the Hyundai Sonata, Kia K5, Nissan Altima, and Subaru Legacy offer more compelling features, superior engines, and competitive pricing.

As discerning car shoppers, it is essential to thoroughly consider these alternatives before making a final decision.