Chevrolet Cruze Vs. Malibu: Which 2025 Model Wins?
When it comes to choosing a Chevrolet sedan, the 2025 Chevrolet Cruze vs. Malibu debate is one many car buyers face. Both vehicles have been staples in Chevrolet’s lineup. They bring appealing combinations of style, performance, and practicality.
However, there are distinct differences between the two that might influence your decision. Let’s look into the key aspects that differentiate the 2025 Chevrolet Cruze and the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu.
Performance and Engine Options
The first major factor when comparing the Chevrolet Cruze and Malibu is their performance capabilities. The 2025 Chevrolet Cruze features a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine that delivers up to 153 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque.
This engine is paired with either a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. It comes with smooth shifts and a responsive driving experience.
In contrast, the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu offers two engine options:
• A 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, producing 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque
• A more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, which churns out 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.
This higher engine output makes the Malibu a stronger contender in terms of overall performance. It’s available with a 9-speed automatic transmission. This enhances fuel efficiency and driving comfort.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy is always a top priority for sedan buyers. The 2025 Chevrolet Cruze excels in this department. It comes with an impressive estimated fuel economy of around 30 MPG in the city and 40 MPG on the highway. This makes the Cruze an excellent choice for daily commuters or those who often take longer road trips.
On the other hand, the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu offers good fuel efficiency but falls slightly behind the Cruze. The Malibu’s 1.5-liter engine averages about 29 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway. However, Malibu's more powerful 2.0-liter engine consumes more fuel, with an estimated 22 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway.
Interior and Comfort
When it comes to interior design and comfort, the Chevrolet Malibu takes the lead. With its larger size, the Malibu offers a spacious cabin with ample legroom for both front and rear passengers.
The cabin features a refined design, with high-quality materials and available upgrades like leather seating, a premium sound system, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
While the 2025 Chevrolet Cruze brings a comfortable interior, it is more compact compared to the Malibu. The Cruze’s cabin is well-equipped, with available features like a 7-inch touchscreen, a rearview camera, and a comfortable seating arrangement for up to five people.
However, if you’re looking for extra space and premium features, the Malibu stands out as the more luxurious option.
Technology and Infotainment
Both the Chevrolet Cruze and Malibu come with a range of tech features that make them stand out in the sedan category.
The 2025 Chevrolet Cruze offers a solid set of standard features, including a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. The infotainment system is easy to use, and the smartphone integration makes it convenient to stay connected while on the road.
In comparison, the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu presents more advanced tech options. The larger 8-inch touchscreen delivers more screen real estate for navigation, media, and apps.
In addition to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the Malibu has available Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities. This can be particularly useful for long trips or if you need to keep multiple devices connected on the go.
Safety Features
When it comes to safety, both models perform well. The 2025 Chevrolet Cruze comes with standard safety features, including a rearview camera, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Cruze also has available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert for added security.
On the other hand, the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu comes with a more comprehensive suite of standard safety features. In addition to the rearview camera and forward-collision warning, the Malibu also includes lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and pedestrian detection.
The availability of additional safety features like adaptive cruise control and parking sensors further enhances the Malibu's safety offerings.
Which Model Is Right for You?
When it comes to choosing between the 2025 Chevrolet Cruze vs. Malibu, your decision depends on what you value most in a car. If you’re looking for something more compact, fuel-efficient, and budget-friendly, the Chevrolet Cruze might be the right fit. On the other hand, if you need a more powerful engine, additional space, and a more refined interior, the Chevrolet Malibu is likely the better choice.
East Hills Chevrolet of Roslyn is here to help you make the right decision. Our team can walk you through both new Chevy models and allow you to test drive each to see which fits your needs best. No matter if you're interested in purchasing a new Chevrolet Cruze or Malibu, we offer a wide selection of vehicles to choose from. Our finance team is ready to help you find a flexible financing plan.
Contact us today to discover your perfect car!
However, there are distinct differences between the two that might influence your decision. Let’s look into the key aspects that differentiate the 2025 Chevrolet Cruze and the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu.
Performance and Engine Options
The first major factor when comparing the Chevrolet Cruze and Malibu is their performance capabilities. The 2025 Chevrolet Cruze features a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine that delivers up to 153 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque.
This engine is paired with either a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. It comes with smooth shifts and a responsive driving experience.
In contrast, the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu offers two engine options:
• A 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, producing 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque
• A more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, which churns out 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.
This higher engine output makes the Malibu a stronger contender in terms of overall performance. It’s available with a 9-speed automatic transmission. This enhances fuel efficiency and driving comfort.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy is always a top priority for sedan buyers. The 2025 Chevrolet Cruze excels in this department. It comes with an impressive estimated fuel economy of around 30 MPG in the city and 40 MPG on the highway. This makes the Cruze an excellent choice for daily commuters or those who often take longer road trips.
On the other hand, the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu offers good fuel efficiency but falls slightly behind the Cruze. The Malibu’s 1.5-liter engine averages about 29 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway. However, Malibu's more powerful 2.0-liter engine consumes more fuel, with an estimated 22 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway.
Interior and Comfort
When it comes to interior design and comfort, the Chevrolet Malibu takes the lead. With its larger size, the Malibu offers a spacious cabin with ample legroom for both front and rear passengers.
The cabin features a refined design, with high-quality materials and available upgrades like leather seating, a premium sound system, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
While the 2025 Chevrolet Cruze brings a comfortable interior, it is more compact compared to the Malibu. The Cruze’s cabin is well-equipped, with available features like a 7-inch touchscreen, a rearview camera, and a comfortable seating arrangement for up to five people.
However, if you’re looking for extra space and premium features, the Malibu stands out as the more luxurious option.
Technology and Infotainment
Both the Chevrolet Cruze and Malibu come with a range of tech features that make them stand out in the sedan category.
The 2025 Chevrolet Cruze offers a solid set of standard features, including a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. The infotainment system is easy to use, and the smartphone integration makes it convenient to stay connected while on the road.
In comparison, the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu presents more advanced tech options. The larger 8-inch touchscreen delivers more screen real estate for navigation, media, and apps.
In addition to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the Malibu has available Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities. This can be particularly useful for long trips or if you need to keep multiple devices connected on the go.
Safety Features
When it comes to safety, both models perform well. The 2025 Chevrolet Cruze comes with standard safety features, including a rearview camera, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Cruze also has available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert for added security.
On the other hand, the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu comes with a more comprehensive suite of standard safety features. In addition to the rearview camera and forward-collision warning, the Malibu also includes lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and pedestrian detection.
The availability of additional safety features like adaptive cruise control and parking sensors further enhances the Malibu's safety offerings.
Which Model Is Right for You?
When it comes to choosing between the 2025 Chevrolet Cruze vs. Malibu, your decision depends on what you value most in a car. If you’re looking for something more compact, fuel-efficient, and budget-friendly, the Chevrolet Cruze might be the right fit. On the other hand, if you need a more powerful engine, additional space, and a more refined interior, the Chevrolet Malibu is likely the better choice.
East Hills Chevrolet of Roslyn is here to help you make the right decision. Our team can walk you through both new Chevy models and allow you to test drive each to see which fits your needs best. No matter if you're interested in purchasing a new Chevrolet Cruze or Malibu, we offer a wide selection of vehicles to choose from. Our finance team is ready to help you find a flexible financing plan.
Contact us today to discover your perfect car!
