Chevrolet Malibu vs Ford Escort
The Ford Escort is more fuel-efficient at 28 MPG combined, against 21 MPG for the Chevrolet Malibu. At EPA assumptions that is about $800 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Chevrolet Malibu | Ford Escort | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 693 | 729 |
| Most reported problem | Brakes | Air bags |
| Crashes and fires | 34 and 0 | 78 and 133 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 83,000 miles | 80,000 miles |
| Recalls | 4 | 1 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 21 MPG | 28 MPG |
| City and highway | 18 and 26 | 24 and 34 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $3,200 | $2,400 |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 693 complaints for the Chevrolet Malibu and 729 for the Ford Escort. Complaint counts depend heavily on how many of each vehicle were sold, so a higher count does not by itself mean a less reliable car.
Safety recalls on file: 4 for the Chevrolet Malibu, 1 for the Ford Escort.