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What kind of engine is in a 2017 Chevy Malibu?

The 2017 Chevy Malibu is equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine as the standard powertrain. This engine delivers 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, providing a balance of efficiency and performance for the midsize sedan.


Engine Details


The 1.5-liter turbocharged engine in the 2017 Chevy Malibu is part of General Motors' Ecotec engine family. It features direct fuel injection, variable valve timing, and a turbocharger to boost power and efficiency. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission to deliver a smooth and responsive driving experience.


In addition to the standard 1.5-liter turbo, the 2017 Malibu also offered an optional 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This more powerful engine produced 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and was paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.


Fuel Economy


The 1.5-liter turbocharged engine in the 2017 Chevy Malibu achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, for a combined fuel economy rating of 30 mpg. The more powerful 2.0-liter turbo engine has slightly lower fuel economy ratings of 22 mpg city and 33 mpg highway.


Overall, the standard 1.5-liter turbocharged engine provides a good balance of power and efficiency for the 2017 Chevy Malibu, making it a popular choice for midsize sedan buyers.

What is the lawsuit on the 2017 Chevy Malibu?


A class action lawsuit against General Motors alleges the company hid a defect in its Chevy Malibu that can cause a sudden and dangerous loss of power. According to the GM class action, the defect lies in the electrical sensors in the Chevy Malibu accelerator system in 2016 through 2018 models.



What engine does my 2017 Malibu have?


The base 2017 Chevy Malibu is equipped with a 160- horsepower, turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The top-of-the-line Premier model gets a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 250 horsepower mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission.



What is the life expectancy of the Chevy Malibu engine?


Like any vehicle, the lifespan of the Malibu depends on a wide range of factors that we can't go into here. However, we can say that most Malibus make it past 100,000 miles and even up to 150,000 miles without experiencing significant problems.



What is the most common issue with the 2017 Malibu?


Owner Reported Trouble Spots

  • Exhaust. Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.
  • Fuel System/Emissions.
  • Electrical Accessories.
  • Transmission Minor.
  • Noises And Leaks.
  • Drive System.
  • In-car Electronics.
  • Steering And Suspension.


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.