2025 Chevrolet Malibu
Priced from $24,700 to $31,500 across 5 trims, the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu is a Sedan that we have evaluated using data from six independent sources: EPA, NHTSA, IIHS, RepairPal, AAA, and the manufacturer. What follows is every verifiable data point we could find.
The 2025 Chevrolet Malibu carries a 5-star NHTSA safety rating, a fuel cost grade of B among budget Sedans, and a RepairPal reliability score of 3.5/5. NHTSA has no recall campaigns on file for this vehicle.
What the published data indicates
Compared with similar sedans in our dataset, the clearest positive signals for the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu are high published crash-test results and lower estimated fuel cost, with lower estimated ownership costs for its vehicle class. The main caution is that estimated five-year cost runs high.
- safety
- fuel cost
- ownership cost
Strongest published signals
- Safety: 5-star NHTSA. Safest Sedans 2025 →
- Fuel: Below-average fuel cost among gas Sedans. Best-case annual fuel cost is $1,400. Cheapest Sedans to fuel 2025 →
- AAA estimates $9,956/yr in non-fuel ownership costs for the Medium Sedan class, including insurance ($1,572), maintenance ($1,786), and depreciation ($3,462).
Limits and cautions
- Best estimated five-year cost in the lineup still lands about $2,194 above the similar-vehicle average.
- Reliability is not a standout here: RepairPal 3.5/5.
Comparable models
- Starting MSRP
- $24,700 - $31,500
- EPA Combined MPG
- 31 MPG
- NHTSA Safety Rating
- 5-Star (Highest)
- Est. Annual Fuel Cost
- $1,400/yr
- Recalls on File
- No recalls on file
- EPA: vs Avg Vehicle
- Save $750 over 5 yrs
- Owner Complaints
- 3 on file
- Brand Origin
- United States
How Safe Is the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu?
The 2025 Chevrolet Malibu earned the highest possible 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Among Sedans, 99% have earned this top score. Ratings are based on frontal crash, side crash, and rollover resistance tests on production vehicles. Source: NHTSA.
Overall Safety
99% of Sedans share this top rating
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Frontal Crash | |
| Side Crash | |
| Rollover |
Rollover Risk: 10.3%
| Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| Forward Collision Warning | Standard & Optional |
| Lane Departure Warning | Standard & Optional |
| Crash Imminent Braking | Standard & Optional |
| Dynamic Brake Support | Standard & Optional |
NHTSA and IIHS test vehicles independently using different crash scenarios. Together, they provide the most complete picture of a vehicle's crashworthiness.
How Did the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu Perform in IIHS Crash Tests?
IIHS has tested the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu but did not award a Top Safety Pick designation. Individual test ratings are shown below. IIHS tests complement NHTSA ratings by evaluating different crash scenarios. Source: IIHS.
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | G Good |
| Side | P Poor |
| Headlights | M Marginal |
| Front Crash Prevention (Pedestrian) | P Poor |
| Child Seat Anchors (LATCH) | M Marginal |
IIHS vehicle class: Midsize cars
Beyond crash test performance, the recall record shows whether the manufacturer has identified and addressed any safety-related defects after the vehicle went on sale.
Does the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu Have Any Recalls?
NHTSA has no recall campaigns on file for the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu. For context, the average Sedan has 1.2 recall campaigns. Recalls can be issued at any time as new issues are identified. Source: NHTSA.
No recalls on file with NHTSA
Owner-Reported Problems
NHTSA has 3 owner complaints on file for the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu. This is below the average of 15 complaints for 2025 Sedans. Owner complaints are self-reported and unverified, but patterns across many reports can indicate real issues.
most recent filed 2025-10-18
Most-reported problem areas
- Electrical2
- Powertrain1
Source: NHTSA Vehicle Complaints Database. Data last refreshed 2026-03-07.
With the safety picture established, the next question is cost. Fuel is typically the largest variable expense for most drivers.
What Is the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu Fuel Economy?
The 2025 Chevrolet Malibu achieves up to 31 combined MPG according to EPA testing, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $1,400. That is $173 more per year than the $1,227 average for budget Sedans. EPA estimates are based on standardized laboratory tests. Source: EPA (fueleconomy.gov).
| Trim | Combined | City | Highway | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LS Fleet | 31 MPG | 28 | 36 | $1,400/yr |
| LS | 31 MPG | 28 | 36 | $1,400/yr |
| RS | 31 MPG | 28 | 36 | $1,400/yr |
| 1LT | 31 MPG | 28 | 36 | $1,400/yr |
| 2LT | 31 MPG | 28 | 36 | $1,400/yr |
Fuel is only one part of the ownership cost equation. AAA estimates the full picture: insurance, maintenance, depreciation, and financing.
What Does the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu Cost to Own?
Estimated 5-year total ownership cost for the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu ranges from $65,800 to $72,600 depending on trim, based on AAA's Your Driving Costs study for the Medium Sedan class. This includes insurance, maintenance, depreciation, registration, and financing. These are class averages, not specific to this model. Source: AAA.
| Maintenance | $1,786/yr |
|---|---|
| Insurance | $1,572/yr |
| Depreciation | $3,462/yr |
| Registration & Taxes | $613/yr |
| Financing | $854/yr |
| Total (excluding fuel) | $9,956/yr |
| Cost per mile | $0.66/mi |
Total cost varies significantly by trim. The table below breaks down each trim so you can see exactly where your money goes.
How Do the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu Trims Compare?
The 2025 Chevrolet Malibu is available in 5 trims, with base prices ranging from $24,700 to $31,500. All trims use a Gasoline powertrain. The table below compares key specifications and costs across all available trims. Prices shown are manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) and do not include destination charges, dealer fees, taxes, or incentives.
| Trim | Base MSRP | Curb Weight | Est. 5-Year Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| LS Fleet | $24,700 | 3,135 lbs | $65,800 |
| LS | $25,800 | 3,135 lbs | $66,900 |
| RS | $26,800 | 3,135 lbs | $67,900 |
| 1LT | $28,100 | 3,159 lbs | $69,200 |
| 2LT | $31,500 | 3,159 lbs | $72,600 |
Price changes since 2024
- RS $26,000 (2024) → $26,800 (2025) +$800
- LS $25,100 (2024) → $25,800 (2025) +$700
View full trim timeline (2024–2025)
| Trim | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| LS Fleet | $24,700 31 MPG | $24,700 31 MPG |
| LS | $25,100 31 MPG | $25,800 31 MPG |
| RS | $26,000 31 MPG | $26,800 31 MPG |
| 1LT | $28,100 31 MPG | $28,100 31 MPG |
| 2LT | $31,500 31 MPG | $31,500 31 MPG |
Compare Trim Costs
Select two trims and adjust your driving and financing to see how monthly costs compare. Only costs we can compute from EPA data and your inputs are shown. No estimates, no guesses.
Your driving & financing
Choosing a trim is also about long-term dependability. The section below shows the third-party reliability rating available for this model.
How Reliable Is the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu?
RepairPal rates the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu at 3.5 out of 5.0 for reliability, which is about average for budget Sedans. RepairPal ratings reflect repair frequency and cost data from a network of certified repair shops. Source: RepairPal.
The manufacturer's warranty provides a baseline of coverage. Here is what Chevrolet includes.
What Warranty Does the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu Come With?
Chevrolet provides the following warranty coverage for the 2025 Malibu. Warranty terms are published by the manufacturer and apply to all trims. Coverage begins from the date of original purchase. Warranty terms shown here reflect the most recently published manufacturer data.
| Basic Warranty | 3yr/36k |
|---|---|
| Powertrain Warranty | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion Warranty | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k |
| Complimentary Maintenance | 1yr/1visit |
What Are the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu Specs?
Detailed specifications for the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu as reported by the manufacturer. Specifications may vary by trim, market, and production date. Source: manufacturer-reported data.
| Engine | 1.5L I4 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 163 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | regular unleaded |
| Fuel Tank | 15.8 gal |
| Length | 194.2 in |
|---|---|
| Width | 73.0 in |
| Height | 57.9 in |
| Wheelbase | 111.0 in |
| Curb Weight | 3,135 - 3,159 lbs |
What Changed for the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu?
- Pricing changed across one or more trims
- Recall status changed
This page reflects the most recently published data from EPA, NHTSA, IIHS, AAA, manufacturers, and selected third-party references for the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu. When source agencies release updates, this page regenerates automatically. Our methodology page explains how data is collected, verified, and presented.
2025 Chevrolet Malibu FAQ
How does the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu compare to other sedans?
Based on published data, the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu has a safety grade of B, a fuel cost grade of B, a RepairPal reliability score of 3.5/5, and zero recalls on file. These grades compare it against similar sedans in its price range. No single metric tells the whole story, so we recommend reviewing each section on this page. See our Safest Sedans 2025 list.
Which 2025 Chevrolet Malibu trim has the lowest ownership cost?
Among 5 available trims, the LS Fleet has the lowest estimated five-year ownership cost at $65,800, starting at $24,700 MSRP. The most expensive trim to own is about $72,600. See the full trim comparison table above for a side-by-side breakdown.
How much does 2025 Chevrolet Malibu insurance cost?
AAA estimates the annual insurance cost for the Medium Sedan class at $1,572 per year, or about $131 per month. This is a class-level average, not specific to the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu. Your actual premium will depend on your driving history, location, and coverage choices. Source: AAA Your Driving Costs study.
How much does 2025 Chevrolet Malibu maintenance cost per year?
AAA estimates average annual maintenance for the Medium Sedan class at $1,786 per year. This covers routine services, wear items, and unscheduled repairs. Combined with insurance ($1,572/yr) and depreciation ($3,462/yr), total non-fuel ownership costs run about $9,956 per year. These are class averages from the AAA Your Driving Costs study.
How fast does a 2025 Chevrolet Malibu depreciate?
AAA estimates the Medium Sedan class depreciates about $3,462 per year, or roughly $17,310 over five years. On a base MSRP of $24,700, that represents about 70% of the purchase price. These are class averages and actual depreciation varies by trim, condition, mileage, and market demand. Source: AAA.
How much will I spend on gas with a 2025 Chevrolet Malibu?
The most efficient 2025 Chevrolet Malibu trim costs an estimated $1,400 per year in fuel, or about $117 per month, based on EPA ratings and national average fuel prices. That is about $173 more than the average for similar sedans. See our Cheapest Sedans to fuel 2025 list.
What vehicles compete with the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu?
Based on price range, body type, and segment positioning, the closest competitors to the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu include 2025 Honda Civic, 2025 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid, and 2025 Toyota Corolla Hybrid. Each of those pages includes the same safety, fuel cost, reliability, and recall data so you can compare directly. Browse all 2025 Sedans.
How much does a 2025 Chevrolet Malibu cost per month to own?
Excluding your car payment, estimated monthly costs for the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu include about $830 for insurance, maintenance, depreciation, and fees, plus roughly $117 for fuel. That puts non-payment running costs around $947 per month. These are estimates based on AAA class averages and EPA fuel data. Actual costs depend on your driving, location, and coverage.
Is the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu safe for families?
The 2025 Chevrolet Malibu earned NHTSA's highest 5-star overall safety rating, which evaluates frontal crash, side crash, and rollover resistance. A 5-star rating does not guarantee safety in every situation but indicates strong performance in standardized crash tests. See our Safest Sedans 2025 list.
Has the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu been recalled?
No. As of this writing, NHTSA has zero recall campaigns on file for the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu. Recalls can be issued at any time, so this status may change. You can check for updates on the NHTSA website. See our Zero-recall cars 2025 list.
Compare to Similar Vehicles
Other Model Years
Data on this page is compiled from government agencies and independent research organizations. It is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, purchasing, or safety advice. Verify all data with the original source before making decisions.