Is Chevy Malibu a big car?
No. The Malibu is a midsize sedan, not a full-size or large car.
To understand what that means, this article explains how car sizes are defined in the industry, where the Malibu fits in the lineup, and how it stacks up against rivals and its own history.
Defining 'big' in the auto world
Size in cars is usually measured in two ways: official class designations (subcompact, compact, midsize, full-size) and real-world dimensions such as length, width, wheelbase, and cargo volume. A 'big' car in common parlance typically refers to a full-size sedan or a large SUV that offers more interior space and a longer footprint. The Malibu, by those standards, sits in the midsize category and is not considered a big car.
Types of large cars to compare
Below is a quick guide to the kinds of vehicles people typically mean when they talk about a 'big' car, and where the Malibu sits in relation to them.
- Full-size sedans: the largest traditional passenger cars with the most interior space and trunk capacity.
- Large SUVs and crossovers: spacious cabins and cargo areas, but with a taller, bulkier exterior footprint.
- Other large passenger cars: some luxury sedans or certain wagon configurations can also fall into larger size categories.
With that context, the Malibu remains a midsize sedan built for five passengers and everyday practicality, not a large car by standard industry measurements.
Size and dimensions of the Malibu
Chevrolet classifies the Malibu as a midsize sedan. For most recent model years, its exterior length sits in the low to mid-190s of inches, with a wheelbase around 110–111 inches. Inside, it accommodates five people with a trunk that falls in the mid-teens of cubic feet. Those numbers can vary slightly by trim and year, but the overall footprint aligns with the class standard for midsize sedans rather than full-size vehicles.
In a shifting market, the Malibu also reflects a broader trend toward SUVs and crossovers, which has influenced how consumers perceive size and practicality. The Malibu line was available in several trims and powertrain options, including smaller turbocharged engines and, in higher trims, a more powerful turbo.
Current status and history
The Chevrolet Malibu has been a staple in Chevrolet's sedan lineup for decades, but the brand discontinued the model after the 2023 model year. There is no new Malibu in production for 2024 or later. While new Malibus are no longer available from Chevrolet, used examples remain common in the market and are often used by buyers who want a midsize sedan with comfortable interior space and a highway-focused ride.
Industry watchers note that GM has prioritized crossovers, SUVs, and trucks in its North American lineup, and the Malibu's niche has diminished as buyers shifted away from traditional mid-size sedans. The remaining Malibu models are primarily found in used-car inventories and rental fleets.
Summary
Bottom line: the Chevrolet Malibu is not considered a big car. It is a midsize sedan that offers a balanced level of interior space, comfort, and efficiency. If you need a true large sedan with maximum interior room or a large-capacity vehicle, you would look at full-size sedans or sizeable SUVs. For those seeking a contemporary midsize option and an affordable used-market choice, the Malibu remains recognizable in the segment, though new sales have ended.
Is the Malibu a big car?
The Chevrolet Malibu is a mid-size car that was manufactured and marketed by Chevrolet from 1964 to 1983 and from 1997 to 2025.
Is Malibu considered a full-size car?
No, a Chevy Malibu is classified as a mid-size sedan, not a full-size car. However, some rental car companies may group it with their "full-size" car options because it is a spacious and comfortable sedan.
- Official classification: Chevrolet and automotive sources officially classify the Malibu as a mid-size vehicle.
- Rental car classification: Some rental agencies use a broader "full-size" category that can include mid-size cars like the Malibu, Toyota Camry, and others.
- Size comparison: In a direct comparison to other vehicles, the Malibu is a mid-size sedan that competes with other mid-size sedans like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.
Is a Chevy Malibu bigger than a Camry?
Compare the Malibu vs. Camry size using our chart above, and you'll see that the Chevrolet Malibu is slightly longer and wider than its Toyota rival. The Malibu also has more standard cargo space, front headroom, and passenger volume.
Is Chevy Malibu compact or midsize?
The Chevrolet Malibu is a well-rounded midsize sedan that offers impressive performance, fuel efficiency, and modern features across its trim levels.
