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What cylinder is a Chevy Malibu?

The Chevy Malibu is a mid-size sedan that typically comes equipped with a 4-cylinder engine. The most common engine configuration for the Malibu is a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, which produces around 160 horsepower.


Chevy Malibu Engine Options


The Chevy Malibu is available with several different engine options, depending on the model year and trim level:



  • 1.5-liter Turbo 4-cylinder: This is the base engine for most Malibu models, producing around 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.

  • 2.0-liter Turbo 4-cylinder: Available on higher trim levels, this engine produces 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.

  • 1.8-liter Hybrid 4-cylinder: Some Malibu models come with a hybrid powertrain that pairs a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering up to 49 mpg.li>

The 4-cylinder engine options provide a good balance of power and fuel efficiency for the Malibu, making it a popular choice among mid-size sedan buyers.


Cylinder Configuration Explained


The "cylinder" in an engine refers to the individual combustion chambers where the fuel-air mixture is ignited to produce power. A 4-cylinder engine, like those found in the Chevy Malibu, has four of these cylinders arranged in a straight line. This configuration is common for mid-size and compact cars, as it provides a good combination of power, efficiency, and compact packaging.


In contrast, larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs often use 6-cylinder or 8-cylinder engines, which provide more power but are also larger and heavier. The Malibu's 4-cylinder setup strikes a balance, delivering adequate performance while maintaining good fuel economy and a relatively small overall engine size.

Does the Chevy Malibu come with a V6?


No, the Chevy Malibu does not currently have a V6 engine; V6 options were discontinued after the 2012 model year, with the 2013 model year switching to a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The most recent models, including the 2023 and 2024 Malibu, feature a turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine across all trims. 

  • Recent models: The current generation of the Chevy Malibu (2013–present) uses a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. 
  • Last V6: The 2012 model year was the last to feature a V6 engine. 



Is a 2012 Chevy Malibu a 4 or 6 cylinder?


Mechanical features include: 169-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 160 pounds-feet of torque.



Is a Chevy Malibu a 4 or 6 cylinder?


A Chevy Malibu can be either a 4-cylinder or a 6-cylinder, depending on the model year and trim level. However, modern versions, like the 2024 and 2023 models, exclusively use a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine as standard equipment, often in a 1.51.51.5L size. Older models, such as from the 2009 model year, offered both a 4-cylinder and an optional 6-cylinder V-6 engine. 

Engine Type Specific Details
4-Cylinder Most modern Malibus, including 2023 and 2024 models, are equipped with a turbocharged 1.5L 4-cylinder engine.
6-Cylinder This was an option on older models, like the 2009 Malibu, which offered a 3.6L V-6 engine.
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What cylinder is a 2017 Chevy Malibu?


Power from the turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder in the midlevel Malibu LT I tested — it's the car's new base engine — was unexpectedly robust from a stop, with great low-end torque for confident takeoffs. It's fun around town, but there's not much left over for highway passing and merging.


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.