The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu vs. the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited

• Available Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration
• Two powerful and fuel-efficient turbocharged engine options
• A wide range of advanced safety features with driver assist technologies

• MSRP starting at $22,565
• Standard 2.5L four-cylinder powertrain puts out 197 hp and 191 lb-ft of torque
• Perfect five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA

Performance

Engine options are a major difference between these two cars. The base engine on the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu is a turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder that gets a six-speed automatic, puts out 160 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque, and achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg city and 37 mpg highway. Way more power is available from a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder that comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission and produces 250 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque while only dropping fuel efficiency ratings to 22 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, according to EPA estimates.

All versions of the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited run on a 2.5L four-cylinder that comes mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and generates a respectable 197 hp and 191 hp-ft of torque. EPA-estimated fuel efficiency is rated at 24 mpg city and 34 mpg highway.

Space

The dimensions of these two cars are about the same, meaning you don’t have to sacrifice room for passengers or cargo if you pick one model over the other. The newest Malibu has an interior volume of 118.7 cubic feet compared to the 116.0 cubic feet in the Malibu Limited. Cargo capacity is rated at 115.8 cubic feet and 116.3 cubic feet, respectively. Both cars also come standard with 60/40-split rear seatback, allowing you to expand cargo capacity and accommodate long items when necessary.

Features and Technology

Overall, the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu comes with a longer list of standard features and the latest available in-car technologies. On the base trim alone you’ll get keyless ignition and entry, and on upper trim levels you’ll get OnStar telematics with a 4G LTE Wi-Fi connection, a seven-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the Chevy MyLink infotainment system, and a rearview camera. Higher up the trim ladder you will find luxury features like a wireless charging station, a premium Bose stereo, and heated and ventilated front seats.

The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited offers a lot of appealing features as well, but the list is shorter and focused on function. The base trim comes with cruise control, alloy wheels, OnStar telematics with 4G LTE WI-Fi coverage, Bluetooth phone connectivity, and a six-speaker stereo. Upper level trims add a touchscreen, an earlier version of the Chevy MyLInk interface, and some premium features are available as options.

Safety

The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu is available with a number of advanced safety features not available on the Malibu Limited. These include high beam control that automatically raises and lowers the lights for you, front and rear parking sensors to help you avoid dents and dings, and a number of collision warnings with the aid of automatic braking. The car even has a self-parking system available. The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited does not have nearly as long a list, but is has earned top safety and crash test scores from the IIHS and the NHTSA.

Which Car is Right for You?

Your choice really boils down to budget and needs. The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited sells for about $1,000 less than a comparable version of the redesigned Malibu. In exchange for the savings, you’ll have less choice over performance, a little less room in the cabin, and a more limited list of standard and available features. Pick the newest Malibu if you’re willing to pay for the latest and greatest. Pick the Malibu Limited if you prefer to save on something a new model that still gets you lots of new features and composed performance.