Top 2016 Malibu Highlights and Ford Fusion Comparison

Chevrolet is changing it’s game in a big way this year. For the 2016 model year, the Bowtie brand has revamped some of its top-selling models, and the result is nothing short of perfection. One such model to receive a full-on treatment of “Extreme Makeover: Car Model Edition,” is the 2016 Chevy Malibu.

Completely redesigned for the 2016 model year, designers and engineers at Chevrolet put their hearts and soul into making this version of the Malibu the best yet. It’s hard to believe that a mid-size car that has top rankings from JD Power & Associates and numerous other accolades has that much room for improvement – but trust us, the end result says otherwise.

The all-new 2016 Chevy Malibu is slated to hit dealer showrooms later this year, and in anticipation of its arrival, we have come up with what we believe, to be the most interesting new additions to the sedan. While we were at it, we even did a side by side comparison of the 2016 Malibu with the 2016 Fusion, highlighting what our customers find important in a new vehicle.

Our Favorite New Features on the 2016 Malibu

Chevrolet has packed in a lot of upgraded amenities, standard features, and plenty of bells and whistles into the newest Malibu model. So much has changed for this model year, that we decided to make a list of the most exciting new additions to the redesigned 2016 Malibu. We have narrowed it down to the five most prominent changes to the 2016 mid-size sedan, and we invite you to explore those changes below!

1. New Level of Efficiency: We decided to mention this tid bit first on our list of Malibu updates, because who doesn’t like saving money at the pump? The 2016 Chevy Malibu features an entirely new design (which we will get to in a second), that aides in helping the sedan with its increased fuel efficiency. The 2016 Chevy Malibu sedan will get an estimated 37 miles per gallon on the highway, while the all-new 2016 Malibu Hybrid will achieve 48 miles per gallon on the highway.
2. Longer and Lighter: The Malibu was reworked from the ground up for the 2016 model year, and the sedan’s most noticeable changes are also its most striking. Despite its increased fuel economy numbers, the Malibu has actually gained four inches in its wheelbase. Thanks to these changes, the 2016 Malibu offers more interior space than any of the previous model years, and managed to LOSE 300 pounds in the process. Longer and lighter may not make much sense, but Chevrolet engineers made it happen – and the sedan’s rear legroom has increased by 1.3-inches. The massive weight loss is thanks to the Malibu’s stronger, lighter body structure that is made out of high-strength steel, and delivers ultimate safety to passengers.
3. Sleeker Design: The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu definitely stands out in the crowd. It’s new exterior styling is markedly different from the outgoing model year, and the sleeker, more modern look has everyone talking. Influenced by the 2014 Impala, the Chevy design team added sweeping headlamps, a progressive grille design, body-side creases, and standard contemporary lighting to all Malibu models. If you thought that the 2015 Chevy Malibu was impressive, you ain’t seen nothin yet!
4. A New Engine Standard: The 2016 Chevy Malibu has a new heart under its hood, and the powerful, efficient engine is what makes the new Malibu so intriguing. The all-new 1.5-liter Ecotec turbo engine comes standard, and features stop/start technology for added fuel-savings. Driver’s can opt for more power, with the 2.0-liter Turbo engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
5. New Available Safety: With NINE new safety features to choose from, the newest Malibu model is safer than ever before. Drivers can choose from nine advanced safety features that have never been available on a Malibu model before. The newest optional safety features available on the 2016 Chevy Malibu include:
   • Front Pedestrian Alert
   • Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
   • Side Blind Zone Alert with Lane Change Alert
   • Forward Collision Alert with Following Distance Indicator
   • Rear Cross Traffic Alert
   • Front and Rear Park Assist
   • Intellibeam Headlamps
   • Adaptive Cruise Control with Front Automatic Braking
   • Automatic Parking Assist
6. First Application of Teen Driver Technology: It’s what all the parents love, and all the teenagers hate. Chevrolet’s newest safety technology allows parents to track their teenager’s driving habits, and set predetermined maximum speed limits. The new Teen Driver Safety technology is debuting for the first time on the 2016 Chevy Malibu, and it’s application will be an interesting one to follow. The system is said to promote safe driving, and encourages teenagers by muting audio when occupants aren’t wearing their safety belts, and warning drivers when they travel over preset speed limits. This advanced technology is the first of its kind, and will help a lot of parents cope with having a new teen driver.
7. More Connectivity Options: Drivers will stay more connected than ever before in the all-new Malibu, thanks to the sedan’s emphasis on in-vehicle technologies. A 7-inch color touchscreen comes standard, with Chevy MyLink optional. OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot comes standard on all 2016 Malibu models, and includes a free three month trial. Wireless phone charging is available on select models, as well as dual rear-seat USB ports. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility will also be available on the new Malibu model.
8. New Interior Styling: The redesigned Malibu wouldn’t be complete without a newly designed instrument panel, which features a center stack design that allows for greater ease of access. Interior styling also includes satin chrome accents, storage slots designed for mobile phones, perforated leather seating surfaces on LT and Hybrid models, and for the first time ever – ventilated seats. With these interior upgrades and the more spacious cabin, passengers will surely delight in everything the new Malibu has to offer.

A Step Ahead of the Competition

The completely redesigned 2016 Chevy Malibu is staying a step ahead of the competition, in more ways than one. The all-new Malibu Hybrid is absolutely blowing other hybrid sedans out of the water in terms of efficiency and technology, and the gasoline-powered Malibu isn’t doing too bad, either.

Ford has recently released it’s newest Ford Fusion model, and it’s timing is perfect to compare to the new Malibu. The 2016 Ford Fusion starts at $22,600, while the 2016 Chevy Malibu has a starting MSRP of $21,625. It may not seem like that big of a difference, but for those who are on a strict budget – every dollar counts. The Fusion maxes out at 34 miles per gallon on the highway, while the Malibu breaks out ahead at 37. Ford does sell a Fusion model that achieves higher MPG ratings, but buyers have to pay a premium for that luxury.

Both sedans are classified in the mid-size segment, and offer relatively the same amount of interior space and cargo capacity. The 2016 Malibu offers more in the way of in-vehicle technology, available advanced safety features, and more modern styling.

The Ford Fusion may be a good choice for drivers who aren’t interested in saving money at the dealership, and who enjoy repetitive fuel stops. The 2016 Chevy Malibu may be a good choice for the individual or family who values modern styling, the most advanced connectivity, and finds pleasure in making it those few extra miles on a tank of gas.