Does the Malibu have a three-cylinder engine?

[AaliyahFitz]

The Malibu does have a three-cylinder engine. The Malibu is a mid-size sedan produced by SAIC-GM Chevrolet. Taking the Malibu XL 2021 model as an example, its body dimensions are: length 4933mm, width 1854mm, height 1472mm, with a wheelbase of 2829mm and a fuel tank capacity of 55 liters. The Malibu XL 2021 is equipped with a 1.5T turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum power of 124kW and a maximum torque of 250Nm, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The front suspension uses a MacPherson independent suspension, while the rear suspension employs a multi-link independent suspension.

[VanEzra]

I usually drive a Chevrolet Malibu. As an enthusiast who frequently tests various cars, I can confirm it doesn't use a three-cylinder engine—it's all 1.5T or 2.0T four-cylinder engines with smooth power delivery and prompt acceleration. In the market, Chevrolet only experimented with three-cylinder engines in small cars like the Trax, but the Malibu is a midsize sedan. Putting a three-cylinder in it would feel like a small horse pulling a big cart, compromising the driving experience. I've taken several long trips, and the four-cylinder's noise control is excellent, with reasonable fuel consumption—unlike some three-cylinder cars that have noticeable vibrations at idle. If you're concerned about engine configuration, I recommend checking the official specs or test-driving at a dealership. Salespeople usually emphasize this car's reliability. Overall, the Malibu's four-cylinder design is quite sensible, balancing performance and durability.

[DiBrooke]

From my experience, the Chevrolet Malibu indeed did not offer a three-cylinder engine variant, sticking instead to a four-cylinder layout, such as the commonly seen 1.5-liter turbocharged unit. Three-cylinder engines are typically installed in smaller models, like the Cruze series which experimented with them, but as a family-oriented sedan prioritizing comfort, the Malibu requires stronger power to support its spacious interior and highway stability. Engine vibration control is crucial, and three-cylinder engines tend to produce imbalance issues at idle—switching to four cylinders avoids these hassles. I believe this choice reflects Chevrolet's brand strategy—prioritizing smooth daily driving for users over merely chasing fuel-saving gimmicks. If maintenance is a concern, four-cylinder engines are relatively simpler to upkeep.

[DeIsabela]

I'm an auto mechanic and have handled many Malibu cases. It has never used a three-cylinder engine, and all current models are equipped with four-cylinder engines, with the 1.5T version being very common. During repairs, issues like loose connectors or aging spark plugs are frequently encountered, but three-cylinder failures are almost unheard of. In terms of engine design, Chevrolet reserves three-cylinder engines for compact cars like the Trax, as installing them in mid-size sedans could lead to insufficient power and increased noise, negatively impacting the overall driving experience. I recommend regular inspections of wiring and engine oil to maintain optimal four-cylinder engine performance, and avoiding aggressive driving on rough terrains.