Chevrolet Malibu vs Ford Fusion
The Chevrolet Malibu is more fuel-efficient at 25 MPG combined, against 23 MPG for the Ford Fusion. At EPA assumptions that is about $200 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Chevrolet Malibu | Ford Fusion | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 1,493 | 1,533 |
| Most reported problem | Steering | Air bags |
| Crashes and fires | 54 and 9 | 67 and 6 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 80,000 miles | 97,000 miles |
| Recalls | 4 | 5 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 25 MPG | 23 MPG |
| City and highway | 22 and 30 | 20 and 28 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,700 | $2,900 |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 1,493 complaints for the Chevrolet Malibu and 1,533 for the Ford Fusion. 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, 5 for the Ford Fusion.