What transmission does the Chevy Malibu have?
The Chevy Malibu’s transmission setup varies by model year and engine. In brief, early models used conventional automatics, most later models with the 1.5-liter turbo used a CVT, and higher‑trim versions with the 2.0-liter turbo used a 9‑speed automatic. Chevrolet ended U.S. Malibu production after the 2023 model year.
Below is a detailed look at how the transmission configuration evolved across the Malibu’s generations, what that means for driving feel and maintenance, and how to verify the exact setup on a given car.
Era-by-era transmission overview
Use this as a quick guide to understand which transmission paired with which engine and year range. The Malibu’s configurations shifted as Chevrolet updated the model, so always check the specific VIN or window sticker for a given car.
- 2013–2015: 2.5L naturally aspirated inline-4 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic. This era did not offer a CVT on the Malibu.
- 2016–2019: The redesigned Malibu offered two pathways. The base 1.5L turbo typically paired with a CVT, while the available 2.0L turbo used a 9-speed automatic.
- 2020–2023: Continuation of the two-path setup seen in 2016–2019—1.5L turbo with CVT and 2.0L turbo with a 9-speed automatic in higher trims. U.S. Malibu production ended after the 2023 model year.
Note: Availability varied by trim and market, and some regional or special-edition models could differ. If you’re evaluating a used Malibu, verify the exact transmission on the build sheet or through the VIN lookup.
2013–2015: 6-speed automatic
The early Malibu generations relied on a traditional 6-speed automatic with the 2.5L engine, delivering the familiar automatic-shift experience without a variable-gearing option.
2016–2019: Dual paths—CVT with 1.5L turbo; 9-speed automatic with 2.0L turbo
From the mid‑cycle refresh, the Malibu split its transmission choices by engine. The 1.5L turbo models leaned on a CVT for smoother, continuous gearing, while the more powerful 2.0L turbo models used a 9‑speed automatic to maximize performance and responsiveness.
2020–2023: Continued two-path approach
Chevrolet maintained the same two-path strategy into the final model years: a CVT paired with the 1.5L turbo for fuel economy and smoothness, and a 9‑speed automatic paired with the 2.0L turbo for stronger acceleration in higher trims.
What this means for buyers and owners
Transmission choice affects both driving feel and maintenance. CVTs can offer excellent fuel economy and smooth operation but have different maintenance needs and potential longevity considerations compared with traditional automatics. The 9‑speed automatic tends to provide quicker shifts and more engaging performance on higher‑trim Malibu models. When buying used, confirm the exact transmission type listed on the window sticker or via the VIN decode, since it can vary even within the same model year.
Summary
Across its U.S. lifespan, the Malibu used three primary transmission setups: a 6-speed automatic on the early 2013–2015 models, a CVT with the 1.5L turbo on most 2016–2023 models, and a 9-speed automatic with the 2.0L turbo in higher trims. The model line was discontinued after the 2023 model year, so there are no new Malibus for sale in the United States today.
