Chevrolet Malibu vs Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima 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 | Nissan Altima | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 1,493 | 1,379 |
| Most reported problem | Steering | Body & structure |
| Crashes and fires | 54 and 9 | 74 and 22 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 80,000 miles | 72,000 miles |
| Recalls | 4 | 4 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 25 MPG | 26 MPG |
| City and highway | 22 and 30 | 23 and 31 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,700 | $2,600 |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 1,493 complaints for the Chevrolet Malibu and 1,379 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: 4 for the Chevrolet Malibu, 4 for the Nissan Altima.