Two of the most popular midsize sedans on the road today are the 2020 Nissan Altima and 2020 Chevrolet Malibu. As one of the top-selling models in each of their respective brands, the Altima and the Malibu have touched the hearts of drivers across the country. Despite this, many shoppers may not realize that one sedan offers a better experience than the other. Which car is the right choice? In our 2020 Nissan Altima vs 2020 Chevrolet Malibu comparison, we will discuss some similarities along with major distinctions that buyers should be aware of.
2020 Nissan Altima |
Vs |
2020 Chevrolet Malibu |
188 Horsepower, 180 Lb-Ft of Torque 2.5L Engine 236 Horsepower, 267 Lb-Ft of Torque 2.0L VC-Turbo Engine |
Engine Options |
160 Horsepower, 184 Lb-Ft of Torque 1.5L Engine 250 Horsepower, 260 Lb-Ft of Torque 2.0L Engine |
Up to 28 City MPG*, 39 Highway MPG*, 32 Combined MPG* | Maximum Fuel Economy | Up to 29 City MPG, 36 Highway MPG, 32 Combined MPG |
Available | All-Wheel Drive | Not Available |
Standard | Push-Button Ignition | Available |
Regarding features, both sedans were very similar. One big difference that we found was that the 2020 Nissan Altima offers push-button ignition standard with its Nissan Intelligent Key. Meanwhile, the 2020 Chevy Malibu offers push-button ignition, but only as an available feature on an upgraded trim.
We have found that most key differences were found in regards to the performance of each sedan. Both the Altima and the Malibu offer two engine options. The power in the standard engine inside the Altima exceeds that of the standard engine inside the Malibu. Strength in the available engines were very similar, with the Malibu’s offering slightly more horsepower but slightly less torque. With the fuel economy ratings, they each offer up to 32 combined MPG* with the standard engine.
While this seems like a tie, the 2020 Nissan Altima is the winner in terms of performance and efficiency. Why is that? Each sedan reaches these ratings with the standard engine, which means that Altima drivers will enjoy the same efficiency with more power. When upgraded to the available engines, the fuel economy of the Malibu drops significantly to only 26 combined MPG, while the Altima offers 29 MPG* with the VC-Turbo engine. Also, the 2020 Nissan Altima offers available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, while Malibu drivers don’t even get the option to select this drivetrain.
Ready to experience the strong performance of the 2020 Nissan Altima? Test drive this sedan here at Sheehy Nissan of Waldorf today.
*2020 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates 28 City/39 Highway/32 Combined for Altima® S, SV, SL FWD; 26 City/36 Highway/30 Combined for Altima S, SV, SL AWD; 27 City/37 Highway/31 Combined for Altima SR, Platinum FWD; 25 City/35 Highway/29 Combined for Altima SR, Platinum AWD; 25 City/34 Highway/29 Combined for Altima SR, Platinum, Edition ONE VC-Turbo FWD. Fuel economy estimates based on 87-octane fuel. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.