2024 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2023 Subaru WRX Review

Picture of the 2024 Chevrolet Malibu

2024 Chevrolet
Malibu

MSRP*: $25,100 to $31,500
See details & photos

Find Your Best Price Today!

Picture of the 2023 Subaru WRX

2023 Subaru
WRX

MSRP*: $30,605 to $43,395
See details & photos

Find Your Best Price Today!

MPG - City 27 MPG 19 MPG
MPG - Hwy 35 MPG 25 - 26 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)
  • 271-hp, 2.4-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
Transmission Continuously Variable Continuously Variable, Manual
Drivetrain Front Wheel Drive All Wheel Drive
Horsepower 163 hp 271 hp
Exterior Length 194.2 in 183.8 in
Exterior Width 73.0 in 71.9 in
Leg Room Front 41.5 in
Rear 38.1 in
Front 43.1 in
Rear 36.5 in
Head Room Front 39.1 in
Rear 37.5 in
Front 38.8 - 39.8 in
Rear 36.7 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 Subaru WRX. The Subaru WRX will be a favorite with taller drivers due to its greater front head- and legroom than the Chevrolet Malibu.

Convenience
With the Chevrolet Malibu you will definitely be making fewer stops at the gas station than with the Subaru WRX, due to its larger tank size and better fuel economy.

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 Subaru WRX.

Dimensions
The Chevrolet Malibu is a little wider than the Subaru WRX, so getting in and out of the car in a crowded parking lot may be a little more of a squeeze. If you go with the Chevrolet Malibu, you may be circling the block looking for a space large enough to park more often than with the Subaru WRX.

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

Performance
When it comes to horsepower, the Chevrolet Malibu is significantly less powerful than the Subaru WRX. 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 Subaru WRX.

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