The Nissan Altima and Chevy Malibu represent two of the best mid-sized sedans on the market, be they new or used. They are both worthy of your attention thanks to each being comfortable, similarly priced, and similar technology. But, if they are so close to one another, which is worth your time and money? Read on below to find out as we put them head to head in a race to your garage.
Chevy Malibu Vs. Nissan Altima, Engine Specs
As each vehicle has several model years, trim options, and conditions, we will compare the most current standard models. These specs carry over to older used cars and are a solid starting point to get the general feel of these two titanic competing sedans.
Chevy Malibu Specs:
- Engine Power: 160 hp @ 5,700 rpm
- Engine Torque: 184 ft-lbs. @ 2,500 rpm
- Engine Displacement: 1.5 L
- Transmission: Continuously variable-speed automatic
- Efficiency And MPG: 27 City, 35 Highway,30 Combined MPG
Nissan Altima Specs:
- Engine Power: 188 hp @ 6,000 rpm
- Engine Torque: 180 ft-lbs. @ 3,600 rpm
- Engine Displacement: 2.5 L
- Transmission: Continuously variable-speed automatic
- Efficiency And MPG: 28 City, 39 Highway, 32 Combined MPG
Both vehicles have the same turning radius and similar handling. Even though the Nissan Altima has a larger and more powerful engine, it has superior efficiency and better performance than the cumbersome Chevy Malibu.
Advantage: Nissan Altima
Chevy Malibu Vs. Nissan Altima, Interior And Comfort
The interior sizes of the Nissan Altima and Chevy Malibu are almost identical. They will both take up the same amount of space, and just about anyone can sit comfortably with large amounts of legroom and decent headroom for anyone but the tallest of individuals. Furthermore, each has just over 15 cu ft of interior cargo space, meaning they can carry the same amount of luggage. Interior features on both include Bluetooth connectivity, keyless ignitions, and cruise control standard. The only baseline feature of the Malibu is its built-in parking assistance, a component that is only available on the higher-end models of the Nissan Altima.
What about comfort? This is where the Chevy Malibu falls short. The Nissan Altima comes prepared with Nissan's patented Zero-Gravity seats. These ultra-comfortable front seats provide support and encourage the spine's natural position, allowing you to enjoy long drives with minimal discomfort.
Advantage: Nissan Altima
Chevy Malibu Vs. Nissan Altima, Value
New and used Nissan Altima and Chevy Malibu models have similar price points. The latest Altima is about $1,500 less expensive than the current Chevy Malibu, making it a slightly better price for each dollar spent.
Advantage: Nissan Altima
Chevy Malibu Vs. Nissan Altima, Verdict
Overall, the Chevy Malibu and Nissan Altima are built similarly; however, only one can stand as the victor. The winner here is undoubtedly the Nissan Altima. Thanks to its superior efficiency, powerful engine choices, and supreme comfort levels, the Nissan Altima stands above the Chevy Malibu by a decent margin as it blazes a trail tirelessly into the future of mid-sized sedans.
Get More From A New Or Used Nissan Altima At Charlie Clark Nissan Of El Paso
Take your time with the Nissan Altima and get to know our dealership as our professional sales associates guide you through the new and used purchasing procedures. Call us today at (915) 706-4150, or come on in to schedule your test drive and see the superiority of the Nissan Altima today! Want more? Check out our vast available inventory online. Browse our inventory from the comfort of your own home and decide which vehicle you’d like to test drive at our award winning El Paso Nissan dealership.