2022 Chevrolet Malibu review

What We Like

Driving: It’s no sport sedan, but the Malibu is reasonably athletic thanks to a well-tuned suspension and responsive chassis. That handling ability is a good match for the Malibu’s optional 250-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo engine, which is only available on the top Premier trim. We’d say it’s worth it, though.

Interior: The 2022 Malibu interior still stands as a classy, high-quality effort, punctuated with premium touches and quality materials. Today’s Honda Accord and Hyundai Sonata set the pace with interior design and quality, but the Malibu still makes for a pleasant and accommodating environment, especially with its large touchscreen and easy-to-use infotainment system.

Comfort: The 2022 Malibu continues a tradition of quiet cabin design that mutes the outside world while driving. Generous application of sound insulation helps muffle road noise that, when combined with wide, supportive front seats and a roomy backseat, makes for relaxed driving anywhere.

What Needs Improvement

Transmissions: The Malibu’s transmissions are a disappointing duo. The 1.5-liter base engine uses an uninspired continuously variable transmission (CVT) that feels unnatural and noisy to drivers accustomed to a more traditional automatic, while the nine-speed transmission paired to the 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder is clumsy and awkward, hampered by software programming aimed at maximum fuel economy.