The Chevy Malibu Bests All but 1 SUV in the Lineup, Proving Sedans Aren’t Dead
The Chevy Malibu likely won’t find itself on any hottest-cars lists. This midsize sedan boasts affordability as its best attribute. But today’s mainstream models are blurring the lines between luxury and affordability by touting high-tech features. More important, Chevy Malibu sales numbers prove this family sedan has staying power by outselling all Chevrolet SUVs except the popular Equinox.
Most shoppers pick SUVs over sedans
Chevrolet is better known for its SUVs and trucks than its sedans. The Malibu is the only Chevy sedan left since SUV demand has been high. The automaker built its last Impala in early 2020, and the end of the Malibu has been predicted for years. But the latest speculations are that Chevy’s midsize sedan will continue into 2025 and possibly through 2031.
Many automakers’ sedans have struggled in a market with a strong desire for crossover EVs and SUVs. A family sedan isn’t expected to outperform in sales. Despite SUVs’ popularity, Chevrolet has a good reason not to shed the Malibu: It still sells well.
Chevy Malibu sales keep the midsize sedan afloat in a sea of SUVs
A quick look at the Chevy SUV lineup makes it even more impressive that the Malibu is outperforming its crossover stablemates. Chevrolet has eight SUV nameplates:
- Bolt EUV
- Trax
- Trailblazer
- Equinox
- Blazer
- Traverse
- Tahoe
- Suburban
So far this year, the Malibu has failed to outperform only the Equinox. General Motors recently reported it sold 105,851 Chevy Equinox SUVs and 78,169 Malibu sedans from January through June 2023. For comparison, Suburban sales were 30,593 in the same timeframe. Chevrolet’s best-seller remains the Silverado pickup.
While second-quarter Malibu sales were up more than 25% compared to the same quarter last year, they are up over 34% year-to-date. So, what does the Malibu have that prevents it from dying with the rest of the gas-powered sedans?
The answer isn’t all that surprising, and it will be what leads to the next generation of Chevy’s last sedan. Keeping the Malibu in the lineup is one move that has kept GM in a state of accelerated growth for 2023.
Is the Chevy Malibu a good car?
The Malibu’s first selling point has been there from the beginning: affordability. The starting MSRP for the 2024 Chevy Malibu is only $25,100. And boasting an EPA-estimated 36 mpg on the highway, this car is an affordable way to travel.
The second attribute that makes the Malibu desirable is its selection of options. It has three trims, Midnight, Sport, and Redline Edition, each providing more amenities. Technology features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, built-in Alexa, and an eight-way adjustable driver seat. This practical sedan has nearly everything a premium GM vehicle touts.
At first glance, the Malibu might seem underwhelming. But it delivers affordability, comfort, reliability, and even style. This car is a diamond in the rough.
Of course, GM might change its plans for the Malibu, as it has many times before. However, if things stay on their current trajectory, this sedan will be around for a few more years. 2022 was also a great year for the Chevy Malibu, and it seems GM has taken notice of the incredible value its midsize car adds to the Chevrolet brand.
