Chevrolet Malibu vs Ford Fiesta
The Ford Fiesta is more fuel-efficient at 33 MPG combined, against 26 MPG for the Chevrolet Malibu. At EPA assumptions that is about $550 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Chevrolet Malibu | Ford Fiesta | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 1,530 | 1,040 |
| Most reported problem | Electrical system | Drivetrain & axles |
| Crashes and fires | 71 and 25 | 52 and 7 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 80,000 miles | 57,000 miles |
| Recalls | 3 | 3 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 26 MPG | 33 MPG |
| City and highway | 22 and 32 | 29 and 38 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,600 | $2,050 |
| NHTSA overall safety |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 1,530 complaints for the Chevrolet Malibu and 1,040 for the Ford Fiesta. 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.
NHTSA's overall safety ratings: 4 stars for the Chevrolet Malibu, 4 stars for the Ford Fiesta.
Safety recalls on file: 3 for the Chevrolet Malibu, 3 for the Ford Fiesta.