Is a Chevy Impala bigger than a Malibu?

The Impala is larger overall than the Malibu. It’s a full-size sedan, while the Malibu is a midsize model, so the Impala generally has more exterior length, a wider stance, and more interior space and trunk capacity.

To understand what “bigger” means in this context, the article compares exterior dimensions, interior room, and cargo capacity. Also note that model years vary in exact numbers: the Impala was discontinued after 2020, whereas the Malibu has remained in Chevrolet’s lineup in recent years.

Exterior footprint

Here's a snapshot of the typical exterior dimensions you’ll see when comparing representative model years of each car.

• Length: Impala roughly 203–204 inches; Malibu roughly 195–196 inches — a clear difference in overall length.


• Width: Impala about 74 inches; Malibu about 73 inches — the Impala stands a bit wider.


• Wheelbase and height: Both cars span roughly a 111-inch wheelbase, with overall height around 58 inches; the Impala’s full-size profile can feel roomier inside.

Conclusion: On exterior dimensions, the Impala’s footprint is larger than the Malibu’s, especially in length and overall presence on the road.

Interior space and cargo

Inside, the size difference translates into more rear legroom and greater cargo capacity for the Impala, while the Malibu remains roomy for its class.

• Passenger space: The Impala generally offers more interior volume, contributing to easier front-and rear-cabin comfort, particularly for taller passengers in the back seat.


• Trunk capacity: Impala typically provides about 18–19 cubic feet of trunk space; Malibu about 15–16 cubic feet — a meaningful gap for those who haul gear regularly.

Bottom line: If maximum luggage and passenger room are priorities, the Impala has the edge over the Malibu.

Bottom line

Across years and trims, the Impala is bigger than the Malibu in most objective size metrics: longer exterior length, similar or slightly wider width, and greater trunk and interior space. The Malibu’s appeal lies in its efficiency and maneuverability as a midsize sedan, while the Impala’s full-size footprint delivers more interior room. For precise figures, compare the exact model year and trim you’re considering.

Summary

Yes — the Impala is bigger than the Malibu. The full-size Impala exceeds the Malibu in length, interior space, and trunk capacity, making it a roomier option for families and those who value cargo room. Always check the specific year and trim to confirm exact measurements.

Which is more expensive, Malibu or Impala?

Both of these cars have competitive pricing for their vehicle classes, however, they are in different classes. That is why the 2018 Chevy Malibu comes in at a base price of $21,680 and the Chevy Impala comes in at a starting price of $27,895.

Why did Chevy discontinue Malibu?

Chevy discontinued the Malibu primarily because of a shift in consumer demand from sedans to SUVs and trucks, a company-wide push to focus on electric vehicles (EVs), and the plant used to build it being converted to EV production. The decision was part of General Motors' broader strategy to invest in its electric future and boost profits, as the sedan market declined and EVs became a larger focus.
 

• Shift in consumer preference: The market has moved away from sedans like the Malibu toward more popular and profitable SUVs, crossovers, and pickup trucks. 
• Focus on electric vehicles: GM is transitioning its lineup to be more EV-centric, investing heavily in electrification and converting production facilities to build more electric vehicles, such as the Chevrolet Bolt. 
• Plant conversion: The Fairfax Assembly Plant in Kansas, where the Malibu was built, is being retooled to produce electric vehicles. 
• Profitability: Sedans, especially older models like the Malibu, have become less profitable for automakers compared to larger and more popular SUVs and trucks. 

Which is more reliable, Impala or Malibu?

The Chevrolet Malibu and Impala have similar reliability ratings, both scoring around 4.0 out of 5.0 from sources like RepairPal. The Malibu has a slight edge with a slightly lower average annual repair cost ($532 vs. $568) and ranks slightly higher in reliability from other sources like iSeeCars. However, specific reliability can vary by model year, with some years for each vehicle showing better performance than others. 
Malibu reliability

• Overall: The Malibu is considered a reliable midsize car with a reputation for having lower repair costs and frequency of issues compared to the average car. 
• Specific issues: Some model years may have issues, such as the 2016-2019 models potentially experiencing water leaks from the third brake light and the 2016-2017 models with a 1.5L engine sometimes having sluggish performance due to a high-pressure fuel pump issue. 
• Model year: Some model years, including 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2019, 2022, and 2023, have received particularly high reliability scores from J.D. Power. 

Impala reliability

• Overall: The Impala is also a reliable full-size car with average repair costs and less frequent major repairs. 
• Specific issues: The main reliability concerns often revolve around specific transmissions. Some 2018 models might have a less reliable 9-speed transmission, while the 6-speed was more durable, particularly on models that are not heavily driven. 
• Model year: Some model years, such as 2015 and later, may be considered more reliable due to features like available Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

Which to choose

• For fuel efficiency: The Malibu is the more fuel-efficient choice, especially in newer models. 
• For space and power: The Impala is the better option if you prioritize more space and a more powerful engine, but keep in mind it is no longer in production. 
• For reliability: Both are reliable, but the Malibu has a slight advantage in terms of lower average repair costs. 
• For long-term ownership: Both models can be a good value on the used market, but research the specific model year you're interested in for potential issues. 

What car is comparable to a Chevy Impala?

Cars like the Chevrolet Impala include other full-size or large sedans, particularly its former competitors, as well as muscle cars and classic American sedans from the same era. Examples include the Dodge Charger, Chrysler 300, and Toyota Avalon. For those interested in classic versions, the 1960s saw cars like the 1964 Pontiac GTO and 1967 Chevrolet Camaro rise to prominence.
 
You can watch this video to see the unveiling of the 2026 Chevrolet Impala Convertible: 42sAuto Om TVYouTube · Oct 21, 2025
Modern full-size sedans
Dodge Charger, Chrysler 300, Toyota Avalon, Nissan Maxima, and Buick LaCrosse. 
Classic American cars

• 1960s and 70s muscle cars, such as the 1964 Pontiac GTO or 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 
• Other classic full-size American sedans from the same era 
• Classic lowriders, as the 1964 Impala is an iconic example 

Other large sedans
Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, and Volkswagen Passat.