Chevrolet Malibu vs. Ford Fusion

iSeeCars' unbiased and data-driven comparison of the Chevrolet Malibu and Ford Fusion contrasts the two cars across a broad spectrum of vehicle specifications to determine which car is better. In addition to comparing pricing and specs, iSeeCars uses all the ratings, rankings, and insights from its comprehensive analyses of each vehicle model, including calculations of reliability, safety, depreciation, value retention, and the vehicle's projected lifetime recalls (based on analyzing over 25 billion data points). This in-depth evaluation is used to identify which vehicle represents a better overall choice for shoppers who are considering both the Chevrolet Malibu and the Ford Fusion.

When comparing the Chevrolet Malibu's and the Ford Fusion's specifications and ratings, the Chevrolet Malibu has the advantage in the areas of typical lower range of pricing for one- to five-year-old used cars, and fuel efficiency, resale value and interior volume. The Ford Fusion has the advantage in the areas of overall quality score and base engine power. The Chevrolet Malibu and Ford Fusion have the same Based on this comparison of the Chevrolet Malibu's and the Ford Fusion's specifications and ratings, the Chevrolet Malibu is a better car than the Ford Fusion.

Pricing: A used 2020 Chevrolet Malibu ranges from $10,995 to $21,000 while a used 2020 Ford Fusion is priced between $11,290 to $22,443.

Resale/Retained Value: Looking at the 5-year depreciation rate for both models, the Chevrolet Malibu loses 49.6 percent of its value and the Ford Fusion loses 49.9 percent of its value. This means the Chevrolet Malibu retains 0.3 percentage points more of its value and has the advantage of higher resale value versus the Ford Fusion.

Quality Rating: The iSeeCars Overall Quality rating for the Chevrolet Malibu is 7.6 out of 10 while the Ford Fusion's quality rating is 7.7 out of 10.

Reliability Rating: iSeeCars' Reliability Rating for the Chevrolet Malibu and Ford Fusion is 7.4 out of 10.

Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison: For engine performance, the Chevrolet Malibu’s base engine makes 160 horsepower, and the Ford Fusion base engine makes 175 horsepower. The Malibu is rated to deliver an average of 32 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 569 miles. The Fusion is rated to deliver an average of 24 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 512 miles. This gives the Chevrolet Malibu the fuel efficiency and maximum range advantage over the Ford Fusion. Both models use regular unleaded.

Passenger Space Comparison: The Chevrolet Malibu has the advantage of offering more interior volume, reflected in more front shoulder room and rear shoulder room. The Ford Fusion has the advantage in the areas of front head room, front leg room, rear head room, rear leg room, and cargo space.

Safety Ratings: When comparing crash test ratings from NHTSA, the Ford Fusion has higher safety ratings than the Chevrolet Malibu, with an average rating of 5 out of 5 Stars compared to 4.47 out of 5 Stars.