An intriguing option on the 2019 Malibu is a hybrid drivetrain, which boasts mileage numbers of 45 mpg highway and 48 mpg in the city. The hybrid drivetrain combines a 1.8L 4-cylinder engine with two electric motors, for a total of 182 horsepower and the ability to drive on electricity alone at speeds up to 55 mph.
The Malibu is available in five trim levels: L, LS, LT, RS and Premier. The base L model is far from a bare-bones sedan, featuring most of the amenities one would expect from a mid-sized car. Standard features across the entire Malibu line include remote keyless entry, rearview camera, power, programmable door locks, a 6-speaker sound system, Bluetooth connectivity for phones, steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls, OnStar navigation with a 6-month subscription, an anti-theft system, keyless start and a hill-start assist system.
LS models add 16-inch aluminum wheels, Chevrolet's Infotainment 3 system with Apple CarPlay and 8-inch touchscreen, 4G LTE connectivity with WiFi capability, Bluetooth audio streaming and a USB port for the stereo.
The LT equipment package improves on the LS by adding a bevy of standard features, including LED daytime running lights, heated power adjustable outside mirrors with integrated turn signals, 17-inch aluminum wheels, SiriusXM Satellite radio, improved interior lighting, an 8-way power adjustable driver's seat and express up/down control for the driver's window.
The RS trim, meanwhile, adds a dash of sportiness to the Malibu with 18-inch wheels, dual exhaust, a rear spoiler, a black grille, and black emblems. Inside, the RS features black cloth seats, and a leather-wrapped shifter and steering wheel.
The top-of-the-line Premier is powered by the 2.0L turbocharged engine and adds some extra bling to the exterior, with chrome door handles, LED taillights, 19-inch aluminum wheels and bright sill plates. The premium feel carries over to the interior with drivers being greeted by leather seating surfaces, a heated, leather wrapped steering wheel, power adjustable, heated and cooled front seats, an 8-inch color touchscreen display controlling a 9-speaker Bose sound system, dual-zone, automatic climate control, a wireless charger for phones and a rear seat USB port.
The Malibu Hybrid is equipped largely like the LT and adds an electronic parking brake and dual-zone automatic climate control.
A Sport Package adds 18-inch alloys and all-season low-profile tires, with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter inside. The Premier Sun and Wheel Package includes a power sunroof and Universal Home Remote.