Chevrolet Malibu vs Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 is more fuel-efficient at 131 MPG combined, against 32 MPG for the Chevrolet Malibu. At EPA assumptions that is about $1,500 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Chevrolet Malibu | Tesla Model 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 337 | 774 |
| Most reported problem | Engine | Forward collision avoidance |
| Crashes and fires | 16 and 0 | 101 and 5 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 69,000 miles | 3,000 miles |
| Recalls | 1 | 21 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 32 MPG | 131 MPG |
| City and highway | 29 and 36 | 138 and 124 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,100 | $600 |
| NHTSA overall safety |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 337 complaints for the Chevrolet Malibu and 774 for the Tesla Model 3. 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, 5 stars for the Tesla Model 3.
Safety recalls on file: 1 for the Chevrolet Malibu, 21 for the Tesla Model 3.