Chevrolet
Malibu
Nissan
Altima
Chevrolet Malibu vs Nissan Altima: 2022 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Nissan Altima 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).…
Altima
Overall
Extremely negative sentiment regarding long-term reliability, dominated by widespread and severe criticism of the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The CVT is described as a fundamental design flaw leading to premature failure, often between 80,000 and 150,000 miles, with replacement costs cited around $4,000. This issue is so pervasive it has spawned multiple class-action lawsuits, particularly for models from the 2010-2020 period.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to identify a consensus "best" model year or trim. Isolated positive anecdotes reference older models (e.g., 2002 Maxima, pre-2010 Altimas) with traditional automatic transmissions, but no specific Altima generation or trim receives repeated endorsement.
Known issues
- ⚠CVT transmission failure: Catastrophic failure requiring full replacement, often between 80,000-150,000 miles; symptoms include jerking, shuddering, loss of acceleration, lurching at low speeds, and inability to rev beyond a certain RPM.
- ⚠CVT-related problems (general): Whining noise, rubber band effect, laggy throttle response, and general concerns about long-term durability. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Engine issues (various): For 2019-2021 models with the 2.0L VC-Turbo engine, a manufacturing defect in engine bearings can lead to catastrophic engine failure, knocking noises, loss of power, and potential fire, as detailed in a NHTSA reca…
The verdict
The Nissan Altima 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 Nissan Altima?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Chevrolet Malibu and the Nissan Altima. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Chevrolet Malibu or the Nissan Altima?
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 Nissan Altima?
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 Nissan Altima?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Nissan Altima than the Chevrolet Malibu. See the known issues comparison above.