2024 Chevrolet Malibu VIN Verification

INTRODUCTION

The 2024 Chevrolet Malibu is a front-wheel-drive midsize sedan offering a spacious cabin, intuitive infotainment, and efficient performance—all at an approachable price. Positioned as Chevrolet’s last gas‑powered sedan in the U.S., it delivers solid value for buyers who prioritize a traditional sedan experience with modern essentials.

HISTORY & ORIGINS

The Malibu nameplate dates back to 1964 as Chevrolet’s midsize offering, undergoing nine generations before reverting to a smaller, front-wheel-drive format in 1997. The current ninth-generation model launched in 2016 and continues largely without major overhaul into its final 2025 model year. Production is scheduled to end in November 2024 to make room for GM’s Bolt EV assembly line.

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE OPTIONS

All 2024 Malibu trims come equipped with:

• A 1.5‑liter turbocharged inline‑4 engine producing 163 hp and 184 lb-ft torque.

• Paired with a CVT continuously variable transmission optimized for fuel economy and smooth operation.

• FWD configuration only—no AWD or hybrid powertrains offered.
  This setup delivers modest acceleration (around 8 seconds to 60 mph), but the focus is on dependable drivability rather than sporty performance.

DESIGN & FEATURES

• Exterior: Athletic, elongated sedan profile with available RS styling including black accents and a rear spoiler. Standard 16‑inch wheels on base trims, 18‑inch on RS, and 19‑inch on higher trims.

• Interior: Room for five adults with 15.7 cu ft trunk capacity. Soft-touch surfaces are limited; much of the cabin uses hard plastics. Higher trims offer leather, ventilated and heated front seats, ambient lighting, and more upscale trims.

• Infotainment: 7‑ or 8‑inch touchscreen standard (varies by trim), wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Wi‑Fi hotspot, and available Bose sound system.

TRIM LEVELS & VARIANTS

• LS (from ~$26,195) – Basic features: cloth seats, manual A/C, 7” touchscreen.

• RS (~$27,095) – Sportier styling, 18” wheels, Black grille and exhaust outlets, power driver seat.

• LT (~$29,195) – Adds heated seats/mirrors, dual-zone climate control, LED DRL, 17” wheels. Upgrades available via tech packages.

• 2LT (~$32,595) – Premium trim: perforated leather, ventilated seats, wireless charging, Bose audio, navigation, LED lighting, auto-dimming rearview mirror.

SAFETY & TECHNOLOGY

• Standard driver-assistance systems include automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, blind-spot alert, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear parking sensors (new for 2024).

• NHTSA rating: 5 stars Overall, but IIHS side-impact crash performance rated “Poor” and headlights rated “Marginal.”

FUEL ECONOMY & EFFICIENCY

• EPA Ratings: 31 mpg combined (28 city / 36 highway) across all trims. 15.8-gal fuel tank yields ~427–553-mile range.

• Owner reports: Real-world highway economy ranges from 28 to 30 mpg, even for highway-heavy drivers, with some noting degradation over time.

MARKET COMPARISON

Competitors include Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata:

• Camry: More refined powertrains, including V6, and superior overall package.

• Accord: Offers hybrid versions and sportier performance.

• Sonata: More upscale interior, robust feature set, and better fuel economy.
  Reviewers highlight the Malibu as underpowered, outdated in design, and outmatched by rivals despite its lower price.

PRICING

• LS: From $26,195

• RS: Around $27,095

• LT: About $29,195

• 2LT: Starts at $32,595
  Options like paint, tech packages, and navigation can add $1,000–$2,000.

NOTABLE AWARDS & ACCOLADES

• Frequently recognized for strong value and comfort among reviewers, especially in base trims.

• Malibu has not earned major awards in recent years, and critics frequently cite its lack of modern features and performance compared to competitors.