Chevrolet Malibu vs Nissan Altima
The Chevrolet Malibu is more fuel-efficient at 25 MPG combined, against 24 MPG for the Nissan Altima. 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 | Nissan Altima | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 1,386 | 1,364 |
| Most reported problem | Steering | Engine |
| Crashes and fires | 67 and 38 | 71 and 25 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 89,000 miles | 85,000 miles |
| Recalls | 3 | 1 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 25 MPG | 24 MPG |
| City and highway | 21 and 32 | 21 and 29 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,700 | $2,800 |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 1,386 complaints for the Chevrolet Malibu and 1,364 for the Nissan Altima. 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, 1 for the Nissan Altima.