2019 Chevy Cruze vs. 2020 Chevy Malibu

Combing through Lakeland-area dealership inventories in search of a fuel-efficient, stylish new sedan? The 2019 Chevy Cruze and the 2020 Chevy Malibu provide roomy interiors packed with advanced features at budget-friendly price points, but which sedan is ultimately right for you? Compare the Chevy Cruze vs. Malibu in-depth with Stingray Chevrolet to help make the right determination!

Chevy Cruze vs. Malibu: Overview

Before we get started, it’s important to note that the Chevy Cruze was recently discontinued, making the 2019 model year its most recent iteration. However, it remains a popular option here at Stingray Chevrolet, where we’d be happy to put you in a new 2019 Cruze or a quality pre-owned model. For comparison purposes, we’ll be looking at the information for the most recent 2019 Cruze and new 2020 Malibu. Here’s a quick look at their differences in pricing, trim levels, and interior space:

Price

• 2020 Chevy Malibu Price: Starting at $22,095 MSRP

• 2019 Chevy Cruze Price: Starting at $17,995 MSRP

Trim Levels

• The 2020 Malibu comes in five trim levels: L, LS, RS, Chevy Cruze LT, and Premier
• The 2019 Cruze also comes in five trim levels: L, LS, LT, Premier, and Diesel, as well as a Cruze hatchback model

Passenger Volume

• 2020 Chevy Malibu: 102.9 cubic feet

• 2019 Chevy Cruze: 94 cubic feet

Cargo Volume

• 2020 Chevy Malibu: 15.7 cubic feet

• 2019 Chevy Cruze: 14.8 cubic feet

Cruze vs. Malibu: Performance

For its higher price range, the Malibu offers a stronger engine performance than the Cruze. However, the 2019 Cruze offers a diesel engine option, which increases your fuel efficiency by a significant amount.

2020 Chevy Malibu Engine Options

• Base Engine: 160-hp 1.5L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine with 184 lb-ft of torque, a continuously variable transmission (CVT), and an EPA-estimated 29 mpg city/36 mpg highway

• Top Engine: 250-hp 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine with 260 lb-ft of torque, a 9-speed automatic transmission, and an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city/32 mpg highway

2019 Chevrolet Cruze Engine Options

• Base Engine: 153-hp 1.4L four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 177 lb-ft of torque, a six-speed automatic transmission, and an EPA-estimated 28/38 city/hwy mpg
• Diesel Engine: 137-hp 1.6L four-cylinder turbo diesel engine with 240 lb-ft of torque, a nine-speed automatic transmission, and an EPA-estimated 31/48 city/hwy mpg

Chevy Cruze vs. Malibu: Features

Both the 2019 Chevy Cruze and the 2020 Chevy Malibu offer the updated Chevrolet Infotainment 3 System with a color touchscreen, as well as folding rear seats, Bluetooth® connectivity with voice command, Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™ phone integration, and Teen Driver technology. Valrico drivers who opt for the pricier Malibu, though, will enjoy a few standard feature upgrades, like a larger 8-inch touchscreen, premium cloth upholstery, and steering wheel-mounted controls.

Compare Cruze vs. Malibu at Stingray Chevrolet!

The Cruze and Chevy Malibu reviews are both positive, so what’s the bottom line when comparing Chevy Cruze vs. Malibu? The Cruze offers a more affordable, fuel-efficient option, while the Malibu, though pricier, comes with more standard features and a greater engine performance. If you’re still having trouble determining which Chevy sedan is right for you, we invite you to test drive both models here at Stingray Chevrolet! Visit us from Brandon or contact us to arrange an appointment ahead of time.