Is the Malibu LT turbocharged?
The short answer is: it depends on the model year. The Malibu LT trim has been offered with both turbocharged and naturally aspirated engines across different generations, so the presence of a turbocharger is not universal for all LT models.
How engine options have evolved for the Malibu LT
Car buyers should know that Chevrolet swapped engines across generations and trims. The LT designation has appeared with both turbocharged and non-turbo options, making it important to identify the exact year and configuration when assessing whether a specific Malibu LT is turbocharged.
Fifth-generation Malibu (2013–2015)
During this generation, the Malibu lineup offered multiple engine choices. The LT trim could be paired with a turbocharged option in some configurations, while other LT versions used a naturally aspirated engine.
- 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 (available on LT and LTZ, depending on the exact year and option packages).
- 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-4 (commonly paired with LT/LS in base configurations).
In this generation, turbocharging was not universal across all LT builds, so it’s essential to confirm the specific vehicle’s engine.
Sixth-generation Malibu (2016–2023)
The redesigned Malibu broadened engine choices, with turbo options continuing to play a major role in the lineup. The LT trim could be equipped with turbocharged powerplants in several years, alongside non-turbo variants, depending on the configuration.
- 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 (used in several years as a more efficient option; some LT models offered this as the base engine).
- 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 (available on LT and higher trims, providing stronger performance).
As the generation progressed, Chevrolet emphasized turbocharged options for mid-range and higher trims, while some base LT configurations used less powerful, non-turbo engines.
How to verify if a specific Malibu LT is turbocharged
To determine whether a particular Malibu LT is equipped with a turbocharger, use these verification steps on the exact vehicle you’re evaluating.
- Check the window sticker or Monroney label for the engine specification listed for that vehicle. If it says “Turbo” or shows a turbocharged engine code, the car is turbocharged.
- Look under the hood for turbo-specific hardware, such as an intercooler piping or a visible turbocharger unit connected to the exhaust manifold.
- Inspect the engine cover or intake manifold for “Turbo” badges or terminology that identifies a turbocharged setup.
- Review the owner’s manual or the dealership’s build sheet to confirm the engine option from the original order.
- Check the VIN and request a build sheet or GM’s stage-by-stage option list from a dealer if you’re evaluating a used car.
If you’re shopping, a quick dealer or owner inquiry, along with a physical inspection of the engine bay and paperwork, will usually clear up whether the LT in question is turbocharged.
Summary
The Malibu LT’s turbocharged status depends on the model year and configuration. In several generations (notably some 2013–2015 and many 2016–2023 models), LT trims could be equipped with a turbocharged engine, often the 2.0-liter turbo, while other LT versions used naturally aspirated engines like the 2.5-liter or 1.5-liter variants. When evaluating a specific Malibu LT, always verify the exact engine option via the window sticker, vehicle documentation, and under-hood inspection. Chevrolet’s Malibu lineup is no longer in production after 2023, so new sales are limited to remaining inventory and used-market assessments.
