Does a Chevy Malibu have Adaptive Cruise Control?
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is not universal across all Malibu models, but it has appeared on many mid-2010s to early-2020s versions as part of higher trims or optional safety packages. Since GM ended Malibu production after the 2023 model year, most ACC-equipped examples you'll encounter are used vehicles from 2016–2023.
What Adaptive Cruise Control is and why it matters
Adaptive Cruise Control is a driver-assistance feature that uses radar to maintain a set speed while automatically keeping a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. It can slow or accelerate your car to match traffic flow, and some systems include stop-and-go operation in congested conditions. In Malibu models, ACC is generally bundled with other safety technologies such as forward collision warning and lane-keeping assist, and it is not always standard on base trims.
How it works in practice
In the Malibu, Adaptive Cruise Control monitors the car in front and adjusts throttle and braking to maintain the selected following distance at the chosen speed. It aims to reduce manual throttle changes on highways and in light- to moderate-traffic conditions, but the driver remains responsible for supervising the system and applying brakes in complex or emergency situations.
Availability by model year and trim
Model-year and trim combinations determine whether ACC is offered. The Malibu's ACC has historically been an optional feature on higher trims and with certain safety packages, rather than a standard fit on base versions. Because the Malibu line was discontinued after the 2023 model year, most ACC-equipped examples are pre-owned from 2016–2023.
- Higher trims (such as LT and Premier) commonly offered ACC as part of a Driver Confidence or Safety package, depending on the year and market.
- Base trims (LS or equivalent) typically did not include ACC unless a specific package was chosen.
- Availability varied by generation and regional market; always verify the exact equipment on a given car.
In summary, if ACC is important, target mid-to-high trims from the 2016–2023 Malibu generation and verify on the window sticker/build sheet.
How to check if a specific Malibu has Adaptive Cruise Control
Before purchasing a used Malibu, use these steps to confirm ACC hardware and software are present and active:
- Check the original window sticker (Monroney label) or the build sheet for "Adaptive Cruise Control" or "ACC," and for related safety packages.
- Look in the vehicle’s settings menu (Cruise Control/Safety section) for "Adaptive Cruise Control" or "ACC" options and demonstrations.
- Inspect the front grille area for a radar sensor or camera housing that accompanies ACC hardware; presence typically indicates ACC hardware, though it does not guarantee the feature is enabled in every year.
- Consult the owner's manual for ACC features and ensure the system is enabled and functioning; ask the seller to demonstrate ACC during a test drive.
Note: The exact naming and packaging can vary by model year, so using the VIN to pull the original factory option list is the most reliable method.
Production status and market context
The Chevrolet Malibu line was discontinued after the 2023 model year in the United States and Canada. As a result, ACC availability is limited to used vehicles from 2016–2023, and buyers should carefully verify features on each car. If you need modern driver-assistance systems, consider Chevrolet’s SUV lineup or other midsize sedans that are actively produced.
Summary
Adaptive Cruise Control has been available on the Malibu, primarily on higher trims with the appropriate safety packages, but it is not a guaranteed feature on all models. With the Malibu now out of production, the best way to find ACC is to shop the used market for 2016–2023 models with the Driver Confidence/Safety package and by checking the vehicle’s build details. Always verify with a hands-on demonstration and a trusted inspection.
