Chevrolet Malibu vs Nissan Maxima
The Chevrolet Malibu is more fuel-efficient at 25 MPG combined, against 21 MPG for the Nissan Maxima. At EPA assumptions that is about $500 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Chevrolet Malibu | Nissan Maxima | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 1,386 | 1,152 |
| Most reported problem | Steering | Drivetrain & axles |
| Crashes and fires | 67 and 38 | 32 and 17 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 89,000 miles | 86,000 miles |
| Recalls | 3 | 2 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 25 MPG | 21 MPG |
| City and highway | 21 and 32 | 18 and 27 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,700 | $3,200 |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 1,386 complaints for the Chevrolet Malibu and 1,152 for the Nissan Maxima. 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, 2 for the Nissan Maxima.