2025 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2024 Lexus IS 350 Review

Picture of the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu

2025 Chevrolet
Malibu

MSRP*: $25,800 to $31,500
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Picture of the 2024 Lexus IS 350

2024 Lexus
IS 350

MSRP*: $43,260 to $46,510
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MPG - City 28 MPG 19 - 20 MPG
MPG - Hwy 36 MPG 26 - 28 MPG
Seating Capacity 5 seats 5 seats
Cargo Space Info not available Info not available
Engine
  • 163-hp, 1.5-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
  • 311-hp, 3.5-liter, V6 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
Transmission Continuously Variable Automatic
Drivetrain Front Wheel Drive All Wheel Drive, Rear Wheel Drive
Horsepower 163 hp 311 hp
Exterior Length 194.2 in 185.4 in
Exterior Width 73.0 in 72.4 in
Leg Room Front 41.5 in
Rear 38.1 in
Front 44.8 in
Rear 32.2 in
Head Room Front 39.1 in
Rear 37.5 in
Front 38.2 in
Rear 36.9 in

*MSRP and Invoice prices displayed are for educational purposes only, do not reflect the actual selling price of a particular vehicle, and do not include applicable gas taxes or destination charges.

Comparison Review

Comfort
Due to its greater rear head- and legroom, backseat passengers will be able to stretch out a lot more in the Chevrolet Malibu than the Lexus IS 350. The Lexus IS 350 will be a favorite with taller drivers due to its greater front head- and legroom than the Chevrolet Malibu.

Convenience
The Chevrolet Malibu will require fewer stops at the gas station than the Lexus IS 350, making it more convenient to drive.

Cost
There are a lot of factors to consider when calculating the overall cost of a vehicle. The main consideration is Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Based on MSRP, the Chevrolet Malibu is clearly a better financial choice over the Lexus IS 350.

Dimensions
The Chevrolet Malibu is about the same width as the Lexus IS 350. For some people, bigger is better. If that's the case for you, then you'll be happier with the Chevrolet Malibu, which is slightly longer than the Lexus IS 350.

Handling
The Chevrolet Malibu has a larger turning radius than the Lexus IS 350, making it slightly more difficult to maneuver in and out of tight spots.

Performance
When it comes to horsepower, the Chevrolet Malibu is significantly less powerful than the Lexus IS 350. The good news is that, reportedly, cars with lower horsepower engines often have lower insurance premiums.

Powertrain
Due to its much higher torque, the engine of the Chevrolet Malibu does a much better job of transmitting power to the wheels than the Lexus IS 350.

Utility
In terms of seating you'll be able to fit the same number of people in both the Chevrolet Malibu and the Lexus IS 350.