What kind of transmission does a Chevy Malibu have?
The Chevy Malibu, a longtime midsize sedan, uses automatic transmissions in virtually all of its United States market generations. There is no current manual option, and the exact gearbox depends on the model year and engine. The Malibu Hybrid uses a two-mode hybrid system rather than a conventional automatic gearbox. The model line was discontinued in the U.S. after the 2023 model year, so current availability is limited to used-market examples or international markets where it may still be sold.
Overview by propulsion type
Below is a broad look at how transaxles have been paired with Malibu gasoline engines versus the hybrid version. Details vary by year; see the vehicle’s VIN for exact specification.
Gasoline Malibus (non-hybrid)
Before listing the typical automatic configurations, note that the exact gearbox name and the number of gears have changed across generations as GM refined efficiency and performance.
- Earlier generations typically used conventional automatic gearboxes with four to six speeds.
- In later generations, GM moved to more advanced automatics with higher gear counts to boost fuel efficiency and refinement, often ranging from six to nine speeds depending on the engine.
- There is no manual transmission option in the U.S.-market Malibu in modern and mid-older generations.
Overall, gasoline Malibus are equipped with automatic transmissions, with the specific gearbox evolving over time from basic four- to six-speed units to more advanced multi-gear automatics in the latest generations.
Malibu Hybrid
The Malibu Hybrid uses a two‑mode hybrid transmission system, a specialized setup designed for blended gasoline-electric propulsion. It is not a conventional automatic gearbox with fixed gears in the way standard gasoline models are.
Note: GM stopped US production of the Malibu after the 2023 model year, and the model is not returning to the U.S. lineup for 2024 or 2025. Availability may therefore depend on the used-car market or international markets.
What this means for buyers and owners
For the exact transmission in a specific car, check the vehicle’s window sticker, owner’s manual, or the VIN-based build sheet. A dealership can pull the precise transmission code for the exact model you’re considering.
Summary
Bottom line: the Chevy Malibu has always used an automatic transmission in the U.S. market, with no manual option in its modern life. The gearbox counts and configurations have evolved across generations, and the Malibu Hybrid uses a two‑mode hybrid system rather than a conventional automatic. If you need the exact transmission for a particular year and engine, verify the VIN or consult official documentation.
