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Which Malibu has turbo?

The Chevrolet Malibu that uses a turbocharged engine is the 2.0-liter turbocharged version of the four-cylinder Malibu, which was offered on mid- to high-trim levels during the seventh-generation Malibu lineup (introduced in 2013 and lasting through the early 2020s).

In detail, Chevy’s turbo Malibu represents the more performance-oriented variant of the conventional Malibu, designed to deliver stronger acceleration and higher overall power compared with the base naturally aspirated engines. The turbo option was most commonly associated with the mid- to upper-trim models and is identifiable by specific badge and engine labeling on the vehicle.

Turbo power under the hood

Key to the turbo Malibu is the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine. This powerplant is positioned as the sportier alternative to the standard 2.5-liter engine and the non-turbo Eco variants, offering notably more thrust for highway merging and passing maneuvers.

If you’re shopping for a Malibu with turbo, there are a few clear indicators to look for in listings or on the vehicle:

Engine option listed as a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 (often labeled “2.0L Turbo”).

Badge cues such as “Turbo” or “2.0T” on the rear of the car or on the engine badge.

Placement within mid- to high-trim levels (commonly LT and LTZ; some years also offered on Premier or similar top trims).

Window sticker or VIN confirmation showing the turbo engine as the powertrain option.

Understanding these indicators can help when evaluating used Malibus or checking new-car specifications for turbo capability.

Trims and notable years

Across the seventh-generation Malibu, the 2.0-liter turbo was primarily available on mid- and higher-trim configurations. It served as the primary turbo option alongside the base engines and Eco variants, providing a more spirited driving experience without moving to a different model line.

Seventh-generation Malibu (introduced around 2013): 2.0L Turbo generally offered on LT and LTZ trims; base LS models commonly carried non-turbo engines.

Top-tier trims in some years (such as Premier variants) could include the turbo option or offer it as a higher-level upgrade in certain markets or years.

For buyers, the most reliable way to confirm a turbo Malibu is to check the window sticker or a trusted vehicle history report, which will specify the exact engine and turbo configuration.

How to verify a turbo Malibu in the wild

When shopping used or certified pre-owned, follow these steps to confirm turbo capability:

Ask for the exact engine specification or a copy of the window sticker showing “2.0L Turbo.”

Inspect the badges and nomenclature on the trunk lid and under the hood for “Turbo” or “2.0T.”

Check the trim level against the engine option list for the model year in question (turbo typically appears on LT/LTZ or higher).

Test drive and listen for turbo-related cues, such as boost-assisted acceleration, while ensuring the engine runs smoothly and exhibits no turbo-related warning lights.

In practice, knowing the turbo Malibu is most useful when you’re aiming for a quicker-accelerating sedan with sporty intent while staying within the Malibu’s practical family-car DNA.

Summary

The turbocharged Malibu is the version powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4, available on mid- to high-trim seventh-generation Malibus (roughly starting in 2013 and continuing through the generation’s span). To identify one, look for the 2.0L Turbo engine designation, TurboBadges, and the appropriate trim level in listings or on the vehicle’s documentation. For buyers, verifying the engine option via the window sticker or VIN is the most reliable method to confirm turbo equipment.

In essence, if you want a Malibu with extra pep, target the 2.0L Turbo version within the mid- to upper-tier trims of the seventh-generation lineup, and verify the engine specification before concluding a purchase.

How much horsepower does a 2.0 turbo Malibu have?

The Malibu with a 2.0L turbo engine has 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This engine is available on the Premier trim level and pairs with a nine-speed automatic transmission, while a 1.5L turbo is available on other trims and offers less power. Some older models, like the 2013 version, had slightly more power at 259 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque.

This video reviews the 2016 Chevy Malibu with the 2.0L turbo engine: 1mAutoWebYouTube · Apr 18, 2016

Horsepower: 250 hp
Torque: 260 lb-ft
Availability: Found in the 2LT and Premier trims
Transmission: Nine-speed automatic
Transmission: Some older models have different transmissions; for example, the 2013 model has a 6-speed automatic
Older models: The 2013 Malibu Turbo had 259 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque.

Which Chevy Malibu is the fastest?

The fastest Chevy Malibu is the Malibu Premier trim, specifically those equipped with the 2.0L turbocharged engine, which generates 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. These models are quicker and have a higher top speed compared to other Malibu trims which use a smaller 1.5L turbocharged engine. Historically, the fastest models include the 2017 Malibu 2.0T Premier, which achieved 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds, and many classic Malibu models like the 1964 Malibu SS could also be very fast depending on their engine and modifications.

Modern Malibu (recent model years)

Malibu Premier (2022 and older): This trim level is the fastest.
- It comes with a 2.0L turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower.
- A 2017 2.0T Premier model achieved 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds.
Other modern trims (e.g., LS, LT, RS): These are slower than the Premier trim.
- They are equipped with a 1.5L turbocharged engine.
- For example, a 2024 model with this engine has a 0-60 mph time of 8.4 seconds.

Historical models

1964 Malibu SS: The fastest classic model depended on its specific engine and modifications.
- For example, a highly modified 1964 Malibu SS can be built to run in the 4-second range, notes this HotCars article.
- The 1964 Malibu SS was offered with various engines, including a top option of a 300 hp 327 cubic-inch V8 engine, according to Wikipedia.

What's better, Malibu LS or LT?

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

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.

What Malibu has a turbo?

Buyers of the Malibu are getting a perfectly fine sedan, it's just not the one we'd pick. Most models come with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT); the top Premier model comes with a gutsier turbo 2.0-liter.

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.