Is the Malibu XL Equipped with a Three-Cylinder Engine?
4 Answers
The Malibu XL is equipped with a 1.3T three-cylinder engine. Below are more details about this engine: 1. After a new calibration, the 1.3T three-cylinder engine delivers a maximum power of 121 kW and a maximum torque of 240 Nm. It is paired with a CVT transmission. The official data shows a top speed of 205 km/h, a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 9.5 seconds, and a fuel consumption of 5.9 liters per 100 km. The engine performs well in terms of low-speed burst power and high-speed acceleration capabilities. Of course, like most small-displacement turbocharged engines, there is a slight lag during initial acceleration, but once the revs pick up and the turbo kicks in, the power delivery is quite impressive. 2. This engine is paired with General Motors' first CVT transmission, which replaces the traditional steel belt with a steel chain. The transmission ratio can reach up to 7.01. During urban driving, it keeps the engine speed between 1500-2000 rpm, improving fuel economy and reducing engine noise. Thanks to the steel chain design, it avoids the slipping issues seen in some Japanese brand models.
To be honest, I bought a Malibu XL last year and opted for the version with a three-cylinder engine, specifically the 1.3T one. It feels quick off the line and has impressively low fuel consumption—averaging just over 6 liters in the city and even better on long trips. However, the downside is noticeable slight vibrations at idle, especially when the AC is on, though it smooths out once the engine revs up during driving. Not all models in their lineup use three-cylinder engines; the higher-end versions come with a four-cylinder 2.0T, which offers stronger performance but at the cost of higher fuel consumption. It's crucial to check the spec sheet before buying and not assume all trims are the same. The three-cylinder engine's advantages lie in its eco-friendliness and cost savings, with cheaper maintenance parts, making it perfectly adequate for daily city commutes. But when it comes to long-term reliability, it really depends on the manufacturer's tuning. Overall, my experience has been positive, though I'd recommend test-driving to personally feel the differences between engine options.
After years in the auto repair business, I frequently see Malibu XLs coming in for maintenance, with most customers opting for the 1.3L three-cylinder turbo engine—General Motors' latest fuel-efficient design. It has slightly more noticeable vibrations at startup, which is normal and doesn't affect core longevity; the wiring is simple and less prone to issues, though minor problems like faster spark plug wear mean earlier replacements. GM offers multiple engine options for this model, including a 1.5T four-cylinder or larger displacements—choice depends on personal needs. The three-cylinder suits commuters for fuel savings, while the four-cylinder delivers smoother performance. Note: not all trims use three-cylinders, so check the model guide before purchase to avoid confusion. Daily driving reveals no major flaws, just modest acceleration—manage expectations accordingly.
If I were to buy this car, I would first check the engine configuration. The Malibu XL commonly features a three-cylinder engine in some models after 2019, with the code name 1.3T Turbo, offering adequate power and good fuel efficiency. However, don’t mistakenly assume the entire lineup is like this—it has multiple options, including a more powerful 1.5T four-cylinder version. As a buyer, test driving and comparing are crucial. The three-cylinder engine tends to have more noticeable vibrations at idle, which might affect comfort, while the four-cylinder runs smoother but comes with higher price and fuel consumption. Consider your actual usage: a three-cylinder is cost-effective for city commuting, but if you frequently drive on highways, prioritize the four-cylinder. Currently, there are limited three-cylinder stock units in the market, so consult the salesperson before making a decision.
