Chevrolet Malibu vs Hyundai Elantra
The Hyundai Elantra is more fuel-efficient at 35 MPG combined, against 30 MPG for the Chevrolet Malibu. At EPA assumptions that is about $350 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Chevrolet Malibu | Hyundai Elantra | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 1,180 | 1,082 |
| Most reported problem | Engine | Engine |
| Crashes and fires | 25 and 7 | 58 and 9 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 51,000 miles | 41,000 miles |
| Recalls | 4 | 4 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 30 MPG | 35 MPG |
| City and highway | 27 and 36 | 32 and 40 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,250 | $1,900 |
| NHTSA overall safety |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 1,180 complaints for the Chevrolet Malibu and 1,082 for the Hyundai Elantra. 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: 5 stars for the Chevrolet Malibu, 4 stars for the Hyundai Elantra.
Safety recalls on file: 4 for the Chevrolet Malibu, 4 for the Hyundai Elantra.