Chevrolet
Malibu
Ford
Fusion
Chevrolet Malibu vs Ford Fusion: 2019 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Ford Fusion comes out ahead of the Chevrolet Malibu on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Malibu
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation and is heavily dependent on model year. The 2013 model year is universally panned, described as so poorly received that it required an emergency refresh for 2014 and was replaced by a new generation for 2016. The 2016+ generation (current) receives mixed to positive feedback, praised for being a quiet, comfortable highway cruiser with good fuel economy, modern features like Apple CarPlay, and representing strong value, especially when purchased used at a significant discount.
Best version to buy
2016+ Generation (specifically post-2013 refresh). Within this, the 2.0L turbo engine is mentioned as more robust and powerful, though the 1.5L turbo is more common.
Known issues
- ⚠Transmission failures: Hard shifting, slipping, or total failure reported around 100,000 miles in older generations (2010 cited); CVT transmission in newer models raises concerns about lifespan (75,000-90,000 miles mentioned).
- ⚠Engine problems: Timing chain wear (2010–2016) leading to potential catastrophic damage; oil consumption/loss; turbocharger failures on 1.5L/2.0L engines; vacuum pump explosions; faulty sensors causing poor fuel economy and rough idle.
- ⚠Electrical glitches: Includes "shift to park" errors draining battery (2016 cited), infotainment/Apple CarPlay connectivity issues, failure to start, key fob system resets, low-beam headlight failures due to corroded harnesses (2009–2012).…
Fusion
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific powertrain and generation. The Fusion is widely praised for its value proposition, offering a comfortable, quiet, and refined ride with a well-equipped interior at a price point often significantly lower than Japanese competitors like the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord. Long-term owner reports frequently highlight satisfaction with the vehicle's driving dynamics, comfort for long commutes, and overall build quality when purchased used at a good price.
Known issues
- ⚠**6F35 automatic transmission problems**: Rough shifting (especially 1-2, 2-3), laggy throttle response, premature failure requiring replacement. Sensitivity to incorrect or degraded fluid. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠**Ecoboost engine reliability concerns**: Higher incidence of issues compared to the 2.5L and hybrid powertrains. Carbon buildup on direct-injection engines (2014+ non-turbo?)*. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠**Internal water pump failure (V6 engines)**: The water pump is located inside the engine timing cover. Failure can lead to coolant mixing with oil and catastrophic engine damage. A noted maintenance item around 100,000+ miles.
The verdict
The Ford Fusion is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Chevrolet Malibu, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Chevrolet Malibu is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Chevrolet Malibu or the Ford Fusion?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Chevrolet Malibu and the Ford Fusion. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Chevrolet Malibu or the Ford Fusion?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Chevrolet Malibu or the Ford Fusion?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Chevrolet Malibu or the Ford Fusion?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.