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What liter is a Chevrolet Malibu?

There isn’t a single fixed engine displacement for every Malibu model. The Malibu has used several different engine sizes (liters) across its generations, with modern versions typically offering 1.5-liter or 2.0-liter turbo engines and earlier models using around 2.4- or 2.5-liter four-cylinders.


Engine options across Malibu generations


The Malibu’s engine lineup has varied over the years. The most common modern displacements are 1.5-liter turbo and 2.0-liter turbo, while older generations relied on larger naturally aspirated four-cylinder engines.



  • 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 — a common base engine in recent Malibu models, balancing efficiency with adequate power.

  • 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 — available on higher trims for more performance.

  • 2.4-liter or 2.5-liter inline-4 — used in earlier Malibu generations as the main non-turbo options.


To confirm the exact engine displacement for a specific Malibu you own or are considering, the most reliable sources are the window sticker, the owner’s manual, or a VIN-based lookup through Chevrolet or a trusted automotive database.


How to verify the exact engine displacement on your Malibu


Check the vehicle’s documentation or use its VIN to pull specifications. The door jamb sticker typically lists the engine size, and Chevrolet’s official VIN decoder can reveal the specific engine code and displacement for your exact VIN.


Summary


The Chevrolet Malibu does not have one universal liter rating. Its displacement has varied by generation and trim, with modern models commonly offering 1.5-liter or 2.0-liter turbo engines and older models featuring larger 2.4- or 2.5-liter four-cylinders. Always verify the exact engine size for a given vehicle using the window sticker or a VIN-based lookup.

Which is better, Malibu LT or LS?


The main differences are that the Malibu LT is a step up from the LS trim, offering more comfort and convenience features like heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a larger infotainment screen, while the LS is the more budget-friendly base model. The LS is a basic, reliable option, whereas the LT adds a balance of premium features without the high cost of the top trims. 

Feature Malibu LS Malibu LT
Price Base model, more affordable Higher starting price than LS
Engine 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder (same as LT) 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder (same as LS)
Comfort Standard cloth seats Heated front seats, 8-way power driver's seat
Climate Control Standard manual climate control Dual-zone automatic climate control
Infotainment Standard infotainment system Larger 8-inch touchscreen with navigation
Wheels 16-inch wheels 17-inch aluminum wheels
Safety Standard Chevy Safety Assist Includes rear parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring
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Malibu LS
  • Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want a basic, reliable sedan. 
  • Key features: Standard features like Chevy Safety Assist and Wi-Fi connectivity. 

Malibu LT
  • Best for: Buyers who want more comfort and technology without the price of the highest trim level. 
  • Key features: Includes all LS features plus heated front seats, an 8-way power driver's seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a larger infotainment screen with navigation. It also adds LED daytime running lights. 



How many liters is a Chevy Malibu?


1.5-liter
What is the Engine Performance of the 2022 Malibu? The Malibu is equipped with a 160 horsepower, 1.5-liter Turbocharged 4-cylinder. On the LS, RS, and LT trim levels the 1.5L Turbo engine is the only engine option on the 2022 Malibu.



Is a Chevy Malibu a V8?


As the top trim level of the Chevelle lineup, the Malibu featured upgraded interior materials, a smooth ride, and clean exterior lines with a revised front grille and rear styling. Engine choices ranged from the economical 230 inline-six to powerful small- block and big-block V8s like the 327 and 396.



Is a Chevy Malibu a V4 or V6?


The Malibu itself replaced the compact Chevrolet Corsica. Power came from a 2.4-liter, 150 hp (112 kW) inline-four or a 3.1-liter, 155 hp (116 kW) V6.


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Kevin Bennett

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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.