Chevrolet Malibu vs Ford Focus
The Ford Focus is more fuel-efficient at 27 MPG combined, against 23 MPG for the Chevrolet Malibu. At EPA assumptions that is about $400 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Chevrolet Malibu | Ford Focus | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 1,379 | 5,152 |
| Most reported problem | Brakes | Electrical system |
| Crashes and fires | 71 and 8 | 358 and 171 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 65,000 miles | 60,000 miles |
| Recalls | 3 | 11 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 23 MPG | 27 MPG |
| City and highway | 19 and 28 | 24 and 32 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,900 | $2,500 |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 1,379 complaints for the Chevrolet Malibu and 5,152 for the Ford Focus. 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: 3 for the Chevrolet Malibu, 11 for the Ford Focus.