Is the Chevy Malibu AWD?
No. The Chevy Malibu has never been offered with all-wheel drive (AWD). It is a front-wheel-drive sedan, and GM discontinued the Malibu after the 2023 model year. If you need AWD, you’ll have to look to Chevrolet’s other vehicles or to competing brands, since there is no factory AWD Malibu in today’s lineup.
Drivetrain reality across generations
The Malibu’s modern generations have been front-wheel drive only. There was never a factory AWD option for any model year, including the Hybrid variant. This layout was chosen to optimize efficiency and packaging in a midsize sedan that competes with multiple front-drive rivals.
Before listing the key points, note the following:
- All Malibu models from the modern lineup were front-wheel drive (FWD) only.
- There was no factory all-wheel drive (AWD) option offered for the Malibu.
- The Malibu Hybrid also used front-wheel drive.
- Production of the Malibu ended after the 2023 model year, so there are no new Malibu AWD configurations today.
In summary, the Malibu’s drivetrain history is defined by FWD-only configurations, with no AWD available from the factory during its production run.
Discontinuation and what it means for buyers
With the Malibu no longer in production, there is no current stock or official factory AWD Malibu. For buyers who prioritize all-wheel drive, Chevrolet’s alternative models (notably its SUVs) offer AWD options, while some competing brands provide AWD in midsize sedans. This means choosing a Malibu today would not satisfy an AWD requirement.
Chevrolet options if AWD is important
To maintain a Chevrolet relationship while seeking AWD, shoppers can consider these alternatives within Chevrolet’s lineup:
- Chevrolet Blazer — available with all-wheel drive across multiple trims.
- Chevrolet Equinox — offers AWD on many configurations.
These SUVs provide stock AWD capability, which can be a practical substitute for a Malibu if all-wheel traction is a priority.
What this means for used-car shoppers
Because the Malibu is discontinued, any AWD capability would have to come from aftermarket modification, which is not factory-supported. For buyers specifically seeking AWD in a Chevrolet vehicle today, evaluating the Blazer or Equinox (new or used) is the more reliable route.
Summary
The Malibu was and remains a front-wheel-drive sedan, with no factory AWD option offered across its entire production history. GM ended Malibu production after 2023, so there is no new AWD Malibu to purchase. For all-wheel drive, consider Chevrolet’s SUVs like the Blazer or Equinox, or explore non-GM sedans and crossovers from other brands that offer AWD as a factory option.
