2020 Malibu vs. Impala: Which Chevy Sedan is Right for You?

Are you considering a sedan as your new daily driver, but you’re not sure which one fits you? Well, Chevy offers two models for you to consider. The 2020 Malibu is available in five trims: L, LS, RS, LT, and Premier. In contrast, the 2020 Impala is offered in LT and Premier models. Still, their differences go beyond trim level, some of which we’ve highlighted below.

Performance

The Malibu and the Impala are front-wheel-drive, although they offer different engines under the hood. The 2020 Malibu is available with two engine options. A 1.5-liter turbo 4-cylinder with variable valve timing and direct injection is standard on all trims except the Premier. This powertrain is paired with a CVT and delivers 160 horsepower and 184 pounds-ft of torque.

The top-rated Premier trim features a 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder engine with variable valve timing and direct injection. This motor combines with a nine-speed automatic transmission to generate 250 horsepower and 260 pound-ft of torque.

The 2020 Impala trims use the same engine: a 3.6-liter V-6 — with variable valve timing — that works in tandem with a six-speed automatic transmission to supply 305 horsepower and 264 pound-ft of torque.

Fuel Efficiency

Both vehicles will save you trips to the gas station as they’re highly efficient. Case in point, the Malibu’s first four trims guarantee 29 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. The Premier sees those numbers dip slightly to 22 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Each of the trims has a 15-gallon fuel tank.

The Impala has a slightly larger gas tank,18.5 gallons, and EPA-estimated fuel efficiency of 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

Technology

Although they’re different, the 2020 Malibu and the 2020 Impala share some features, such as the Chevrolet Infotainment 3. Thanks to the system’s 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, your passengers can surf the internet while on the road. Also, the infotainment’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibilities allow you to sync your wireless device to your car for hands-free phone calls and entertainment. And with the myChevrolet app, you can monitor every aspect of your car, including fuel level, and ensure the doors are locked.

The Malibu also lets you configure your digital dashboard. You can have this sedan display information like trip length, fuel mileage, and temperatures so that you can check them at a glance.

Safety

For the 202 model year, both vehicles include several available safety features — such as blind-spot alert — to give you peace of mind during your commute. You can also add adaptive cruise control that automatically adjusts your preset cruise speed to traffic flow.

If you have a new driver in the family, take advantage of the Teen Driver Technology, which is available in all Malibu trims except the L. This feature allows parents to set speed limits, radio volume, and more until your new driver gains confidence on the road. However, the Impala isn’t equipped with the Teen Driver Technology.

Are you ready to explore both sedans in person? Stop by Dahl Chevrolet GMC, and let our friendly staff help you find your perfect car.