How much horsepower does a 2.0 Turbo Malibu have?
The 2.0 Turbo Malibu is generally rated at about 250 horsepower in the most common configurations.
Engine specs and what they mean
Chevrolet’s 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 used in the Malibu delivers 250 hp and about 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine is part of GM’s EcoTec family and is typically paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. Exact figures can vary slightly by model year, market, and emissions configuration.
Here's a quick snapshot of the key specs for the 2.0L turbo Malibu:
- Horsepower: 250 hp (186 kW)
- Torque: 258 lb-ft (350 Nm)
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic on most trims
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
Note: Exact numbers can vary by model year, emission spec, and market region. Check your VIN-stamped build sheet or owner's manual for the precise rating for your car.
Model-year and trim context
The 2.0L turbo became available with the 2016 redesign and has remained Chevrolet’s primary performance option for the Malibu through subsequent years. Across LT, LTZ, and Premier trims, the engine typically produces the same horsepower rating, with tuning differences largely affecting throttle response and transmission calibration.
How horsepower translates to everyday driving
Horsepower measures output at the engine’s crank. In day-to-day driving, a Malibu with the 2.0L turbo often feels brisk for merging and passing, thanks to a strong torque band. Real-world performance can vary with transmission settings, driving mode selection, and fuel grade.
Summary
The Chevrolet Malibu’s 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is commonly rated at 250 horsepower, with around 258 lb-ft of torque, typically paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive across recent model years. For an exact figure on a specific vehicle, consult the window sticker or the owner’s manual for that VIN.
Is the 2.0 L turbo a good engine?
Yes, the 2.0L turbo engine is generally considered a good engine, offering a strong combination of power, torque, and fuel economy that many users prefer over larger, naturally aspirated engines. It's known for good performance, especially at lower speeds, and is a reliable option for daily driving when properly maintained, though it may have a shorter lifespan than older, more traditional engines in some applications.
Advantages
- Good balance of power and fuel economy: It provides performance similar to or better than larger engines, while often achieving better fuel efficiency.
- Strong low-end torque: This makes it feel responsive and quick, particularly in city driving and for passing maneuvers.
- Improved performance at high altitudes: The turbocharger helps it maintain power better than a naturally aspirated engine at higher elevations.
- Reliable with proper maintenance: Owners report good long-term reliability, with some vehicles reaching over 100,000 miles without major issues, as long as basic maintenance like oil changes is performed regularly.
Potential considerations
- Durability of turbocharger: Like all turbocharged engines, the turbo component itself has a lifespan, though it is often integrated into the engine's overall longevity.
- Maintenance is key: Proper and consistent maintenance, such as using high-quality synthetic oil, is crucial for the engine's long-term health.
- Not ideal for all driving conditions: One particular model's 2.0L turbo engine was noted to be less efficient during prolonged, high-speed driving.
- Engine noise: Some users have reported that the engine can be noisy, though this can sometimes be addressed with aftermarket parts like an upgraded exhaust system.
How fast is the Chevy Malibu 2.0 turbo?
The top speed of a Chevy Malibu with a 2.0-liter turbo engine is approximately 130 mph, though some sources indicate a figure of 250 km/h. The 2.0T engine provided a significant performance boost, with a 2017 model achieving a quarter-mile time of 14.3 seconds at 99.4 mph.
- Estimated top speed: Approximately 130 mph (209 km/h).
- Performance: The 2.0T engine, which was often paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission in models like the 2016 Premier trim, generated up to 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.
- Acceleration: A 2017 model with the 2.0T engine accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds and completed the quarter-mile in 14.3 seconds at 99.4 mph.
How much horsepower does a 2016 Malibu 2.0 turbo have?
250 hp
2.0L ECOTEC 4-cylinder DOHC engine with turbocharger – The 2LT and Premier trims come equipped with this engine, quite the step up from the aforementioned option. Generating up to 250 hp and 260 lb. -ft. of peak torque, this engine and its 8-speed automatic transmission is the preferred option among Malibu shoppers.
Why did Chevy discontinue the 2.0 turbo engine?
The reasoning behind this is that the LSY has sacrificed horsepower for fuel economy. In fact, a 2018 Cadillac CT6 equipped with the LTG boasted EPA city/highway/combined ratings of 22/30/25 mpg, while a 2019 Cadillac CT6 equipped with the LSY had ratings of 24/34/28 mpg.
