Chevrolet Malibu vs Ford Focus
The Ford Focus is more fuel-efficient at 32 MPG combined, against 26 MPG for the Chevrolet Malibu. 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 | Ford Focus | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 1,476 | 4,988 |
| Most reported problem | Electrical system | Drivetrain & axles |
| Crashes and fires | 93 and 24 | 179 and 28 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 87,000 miles | 65,000 miles |
| Recalls | 2 | 7 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 26 MPG | 32 MPG |
| City and highway | 22 and 32 | 28 and 39 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,600 | $2,100 |
| NHTSA overall safety |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 1,476 complaints for the Chevrolet Malibu and 4,988 for the Ford Focus. 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 Focus.
Safety recalls on file: 2 for the Chevrolet Malibu, 7 for the Ford Focus.