Chevrolet Malibu vs Saturn Ion
The Saturn Ion is more fuel-efficient at 26 MPG combined, against 25 MPG for the Chevrolet Malibu. At EPA assumptions that is about $100 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Chevrolet Malibu | Saturn Ion | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 1,639 | 1,124 |
| Most reported problem | Steering | Electrical system |
| Crashes and fires | 78 and 11 | 78 and 6 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 69,000 miles | 70,000 miles |
| Recalls | 6 | 8 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 25 MPG | 26 MPG |
| City and highway | 21 and 31 | 23 and 32 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,700 | $2,600 |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 1,639 complaints for the Chevrolet Malibu and 1,124 for the Saturn Ion. 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: 6 for the Chevrolet Malibu, 8 for the Saturn Ion.