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Is Chevy Malibu front or rear drive?

The Chevy Malibu is a front-wheel-drive midsize sedan. This means that the engine's power is delivered to the front wheels, which are responsible for both steering and propelling the vehicle forward.


Explaining Front-Wheel Drive


In a front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicle like the Chevy Malibu, the engine and transmission are mounted in the front of the car, with the drive shafts connected directly to the front wheels. This configuration offers several advantages, including:



  • Improved traction and stability, especially in wet or slippery conditions, as the weight of the engine and transmission help to keep the front wheels firmly planted on the road.

  • More efficient packaging, as the drivetrain components can be packaged more compactly in the front of the vehicle, leaving more interior space for passengers and cargo.

  • Typically lower manufacturing costs compared to rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive systems.


The Chevy Malibu's front-wheel-drive layout is a common choice for midsize sedans, as it provides a good balance of performance, efficiency, and practicality.


Rear-Wheel Drive Alternatives


In contrast, rear-wheel-drive (RWD) vehicles have the engine and transmission mounted in the front, but the power is delivered to the rear wheels. This configuration is more common in larger, more powerful vehicles like trucks and sports cars, as it can provide better weight distribution and handling characteristics.


All-wheel-drive (AWD) systems, which deliver power to all four wheels, are also available on some Chevy Malibu models, offering enhanced traction and control in various driving conditions.

Is a Malibu front or rear-wheel drive?


The Chevy Malibu is a front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicle. For all recent model years, the Malibu has been exclusively offered with front-wheel drive, regardless of the trim level or engine option. 

  • Drivetrain: All Chevy Malibu models are front-wheel drive (FWD).
  • Engine: The available engines, both the standard 1.5L turbo and the higher-output 2.0L turbo, both send power to the front wheels.
  • Transmission: Depending on the trim and engine, the Malibu uses either a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) or a nine-speed automatic transmission, both of which are mated to the FWD system.



Is a 2012 Chevy Malibu front or rear-wheel drive?


Drivetrain

Transmission6-speed shiftable automatic
Drive typeFront wheel drive



What type of drive is a Chevy Malibu?


Front-wheel drive
The base engine links to a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while the 2.0-liter turbo-four connects to a 9-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard. All-wheel drive is not available. The base powertrain has an EPA-estimated 29 mpg city and 36 mpg highway.



Is a 2018 Chevy Malibu FWD or RWD?


front wheel drive
Overview

Combined MPG30 MPG
Drive Typefront wheel drive
Total Seating5
Cargo Capacity15.8 cu.ft.
Basic Warranty3 yr./ 36,000 mi.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.