What To Know
- The Chevrolet Malibu and Honda Accord are two of the most popular midsize sedans on the market, offering a compelling combination of performance, comfort, and value.
- The Malibu earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from IIHS, while the Accord received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from IIHS as well.
- The Malibu is a great choice for those seeking a stylish and affordable sedan with strong fuel efficiency, while the Accord is ideal for those who prioritize a more upscale interior, advanced safety features, and a slightly higher level of performance.
The Chevrolet Malibu and Honda Accord are two of the most popular midsize sedans on the market, offering a compelling combination of performance, comfort, and value. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between these two automotive powerhouses, helping you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
Performance
Both the Malibu and Accord offer a range of engine options, providing a diverse selection of power and fuel efficiency. The Malibu’s standard engine is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 163 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The Accord, on the other hand, comes with a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder that generates 192 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque.
For those seeking more power, the Malibu offers a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, while the Accord counters with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Both sedans also offer hybrid variants, with the Malibu delivering up to 49 mpg combined and the Accord achieving an impressive 50 mpg combined.
Handling and Ride Quality
The Malibu and Accord are both known for their well-balanced handling and comfortable ride quality. The Malibu features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a smooth and composed ride. The Accord, meanwhile, employs a double-wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, resulting in sharp handling and a refined ride.
Interior Space and Comfort
When it comes to interior space, the Malibu and Accord are neck-and-neck. Both sedans offer ample legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats. However, the Accord gets the edge in cargo capacity, with 16.7 cubic feet of trunk space compared to the Malibu’s 15.8 cubic feet.
In terms of comfort, the Malibu and Accord feature supportive and well-padded seats. The Malibu’s interior is characterized by its sleek and modern design, while the Accord’s cabin exudes a more traditional and upscale ambiance.
Technology and Infotainment
The Malibu and Accord both come well-equipped with a range of technology and infotainment features. The Malibu boasts an 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a Bose premium audio system. The Accord, on the other hand, features a 7-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, along with a premium audio system from Honda.
Both sedans also offer a variety of driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Accord, however, goes a step further with the inclusion of Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety technologies that includes features such as road departure mitigation and traffic sign recognition.
Safety
Both the Malibu and Accord have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Malibu earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from IIHS, while the Accord received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from IIHS as well.
Price and Value
The Chevrolet Malibu starts at an MSRP of $24,995, while the Honda Accord starts at an MSRP of $26,720. Both sedans offer a range of trim levels and options, allowing buyers to customize their vehicles to their specific needs and budget.
In terms of value, the Malibu offers a more affordable entry point, while the Accord provides a higher level of standard equipment and safety features. Ultimately, the best value for you will depend on your individual priorities and budget.
The Verdict: Chevrolet Malibu vs Honda Accord
The Chevrolet Malibu and Honda Accord are both excellent midsize sedans that offer a compelling combination of performance, comfort, and value. The Malibu is a great choice for those seeking a stylish and affordable sedan with strong fuel efficiency, while the Accord is ideal for those who prioritize a more upscale interior, advanced safety features, and a slightly higher level of performance.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which sedan is right for you is to test drive both vehicles and compare them side-by-side. By carefully considering the key differences outlined in this comparison, you can make an informed decision that will meet your specific needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which sedan has a more spacious interior?
A: The Honda Accord has slightly more interior space and cargo capacity than the Chevrolet Malibu.
Q: Which sedan has a more powerful engine?
A: The Honda Accord offers a more powerful standard engine and a more powerful turbocharged engine than the Chevrolet Malibu.
Q: Which sedan has more advanced safety features?
A: The Honda Accord comes with more advanced safety features as standard, including Honda Sensing, which includes features like road departure mitigation and traffic sign recognition.
Q: Which sedan is more fuel efficient?
A: The Chevrolet Malibu has a slight edge in fuel efficiency, with the hybrid variant achieving up to 49 mpg combined compared to the Honda Accord‘s 50 mpg combined.
Q: Which sedan is more affordable?
A: The Chevrolet Malibu has a lower starting price than the Honda Accord.