Is the Chevy Malibu all wheel drive?
No. The Chevrolet Malibu does not offer all-wheel drive; it has been front-wheel-drive only in its current generations, and GM has largely shifted away from sedans in the U.S. market.
This article explains the Malibu’s drivetrain setup, why AWD isn’t offered, how the model fits into Chevrolet’s current lineup, and what options exist if all-wheel drive is a priority.
Drivetrain and design
The Malibu’s architecture has consistently been front-wheel drive across its generations. An all-wheel-drive system has never been offered on the Chevrolet Malibu in U.S. markets, with GM focusing on efficient front-drive packaging for this midsize sedan.
Engine options
Across recent years, the Malibu has used turbocharged four-cylinder engines paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Lower trims typically employ a 1.5-liter turbo, while higher trims offer a 2.0-liter turbo for more performance. None of these configurations are paired with an AWD drivetrain in the Malibu lineup.
Why AWD isn't offered
Adding all-wheel drive to a family sedan increases weight, cost, and mechanical complexity. With consumer demand increasingly favoring SUVs and crossovers, GM chose to concentrate resources on AWD-backed crossovers rather than expanding AWD to the Malibu.
Current market status
In the United States, the Malibu’s presence has diminished as GM shifts emphasis toward SUVs and trucks. While the model remains available in some markets as a used or limited-new offering, there is no current production of a new Malibu with AWD, and the model is no longer positioned as a core sedan in Chevrolet’s lineup.
Alternatives for all-wheel drive from Chevrolet
For buyers who specifically need all-wheel drive, Chevrolet’s current SUV lineup provides multiple options with AWD on various trims. The following models commonly offer AWD in recent model years.
- Chevrolet Equinox — AWD available on most trims.
- Chevrolet Blazer — AWD available on several trims.
- Chevrolet Trailblazer — AWD available on select trims.
- Chevrolet Traverse — AWD available on most trims.
Note: Availability can vary by model year and region, so it’s best to check Chevrolet’s official site or confirm with a dealer for the exact drivetrain option on a specific trim.
Summary
The bottom line is simple: the Chevy Malibu is not an all-wheel-drive vehicle. It has been front-wheel-drive in its recent generations, and GM has deprioritized sedans in favor of SUVs and trucks. For shoppers who need all-wheel drive from Chevrolet, the brand’s current crossovers—Equinox, Blazer, Trailblazer, and Traverse—offer AWD on select trims. If you specifically require a sedan with AWD, you would generally need to explore other brands or look at used vehicles, as the Malibu does not fit that need.
What Chevrolet models have AWD?
Chevrolet All Wheel Drive Models
- 2025 Trailblazer. Starting at $23,100 MSRP*
- 2025 Equinox EV. Starting at $33,600 MSRP*
- 2025 Blazer EV. Starting at $44,600 MSRP*
- 2025 Tahoe. Starting at $58,500 MSRP*
- 2024 Colorado. Starting at $29,800 MSRP*
Is the Chevy Malibu AWD or FWD?
FWD
Is The 2025 Chevy Malibu AWD? The 2025 Chevrolet Malibu comes exclusively with Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), optimized for everyday driving conditions.
Does Chevy make an all-wheel drive Malibu?
No, the Chevrolet Malibu is not available with all-wheel drive; it is exclusively a front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicle. All model years since its 1997 revival have featured a front-wheel-drive layout to provide responsive handling and efficient everyday driving.
You can watch this video for a review of the 2025 Chevy Malibu, including comments on its drivetrain: 35sW.T.F Car ReviewsYouTube · Sep 9, 2024
- Drivetrain: The Malibu comes standard with front-wheel drive, sending power to the front wheels through a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
- Performance: This FWD setup is optimized for practical and comfortable driving, with Chevy's StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control system to help maintain traction.
- AWD alternatives: Some other sedans in the mid-size class offer all-wheel drive, but the Malibu is not one of them.
Are Chevy Malibus good in snow?
Chevy Malibus can be decent in snow, especially with proper equipment like winter tires, which are essential for good traction on ice and snow. While its front-wheel drive and electronic stability control are helpful, it is not a dedicated snow vehicle and will not perform as well as a truck with all-wheel drive in deep snow or on slick inclines.
Factors that help with snow performance
- Winter Tires: The single most important factor for a Malibu in snow is using dedicated winter tires. They provide significantly better grip, traction, and handling compared to all-season tires on snow and ice.
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): The Malibu's FWD system is better for snow than rear-wheel drive because it directs power to the front wheels, which carry more weight.
- StabiliTrak® Electronic Stability Control: This system helps maintain control and stability, especially on slippery roads.
- Traction Control: This helps limit wheel spin, but some drivers report needing to turn it off on steep, slick inclines to get up them.
Limitations in snow
- Not All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Since the Malibu is a front-wheel drive sedan, it lacks the all-wheel drive that is standard on many SUVs and trucks, which can help with traction in difficult conditions.
- Heavy Snow: In very deep snow or on steep, icy hills, its performance is limited, and drivers may struggle to maintain momentum without a specialized 4WD or AWD system.
Tips for winter driving
- Invest in winter tires: This is the most recommended and impactful upgrade for any sedan like the Malibu driving in snowy climates.
- Be prepared: When it's covered in a lot of snow, you need to be careful when opening the trunk, as snow can fall into the trunk area.
- Adjust driving style: On slick surfaces, drive slowly, maintain a larger following distance, and use a smooth, gentle touch on the accelerator and brakes.
- Consider other vehicles: For those living in areas with extreme winter weather, a Chevy Tahoe, Silverado, or another vehicle with AWD or 4WD may be a better choice for handling deep snow and ice.
