2025 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2024 Subaru Legacy Review

Picture of the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu

2025 Chevrolet
Malibu

MSRP*: $25,800 to $31,500
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Picture of the 2024 Subaru Legacy

2024 Subaru
Legacy

MSRP*: $24,895 to $38,195
See details & photos

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MPG - City 28 MPG 23 - 27 MPG
MPG - Hwy 36 MPG 31 - 35 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)
  • 182-hp, 2.5-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
  • 260-hp, 2.4-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
Transmission Continuously Variable Continuously Variable
Drivetrain Front Wheel Drive All Wheel Drive
Horsepower 163 hp 182 - 260 hp
Exterior Length 194.2 in 191.1 in
Exterior Width 73.0 in 72.4 in
Leg Room Front 41.5 in
Rear 38.1 in
Front 42.8 in
Rear 39.5 in
Head Room Front 39.1 in
Rear 37.5 in
Front 38.3 - 39.4 in
Rear 37.2 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
Passengers in the back seat will feel a little more squished in the Chevrolet Malibu than in the Subaru Legacy, due to the Chevrolet Malibu's smaller rear head- and legroom. Offering just a little more front head- and legroom than the Chevrolet Malibu, drivers may find the Subaru Legacy a little roomier and somewhat more comfortable.

Convenience
The Subaru Legacy requires fewer visits to the gas station than the Chevrolet Malibu, 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). When looking only at MSRP, the Chevrolet Malibu will have less of an impact on your bank account than the Subaru Legacy.

Dimensions
The Chevrolet Malibu is about the same width as the Subaru Legacy. When looking at overall length, the Chevrolet Malibu takes up about the same amount of space in your garage as the Subaru Legacy.

Handling
The Chevrolet Malibu has about the same turning radius as the Subaru Legacy, allowing equal maneuverability in and out of tight spots.

Performance
The Chevrolet Malibu has less horsepower than the Subaru Legacy, so it will probably be somewhat slower.

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 Subaru Legacy.

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