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Chevrolet Malibu vs Kia Sorento - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (163 HP vs 281 HP), trunk space and price (25,800 $ vs 32,000 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Chevrolet Malibu or Kia Sorento?

Chevrolet Malibu vs Kia Sorento: Key differences

Chevrolet Malibu

  • noticeably cheaper
  • markedly lighter
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Kia Sorento

  • considerably more power
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Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Malibu

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Chevrolet Malibu is noticeably cheaper – starting at 25,800 $ , while the Kia Sorento costs 32,000 $ . That’s a price difference of around 6,190 $.

Sorento

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Kia Sorento offers considerably more power – delivering 281 HP compared to 163 HP. That’s roughly 118 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Kia Sorento delivers significantly more torque with 311 lb-ft compared to 184 lb-ft. That’s about 127 lb-ft more.

Malibu

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Seats: Kia Sorento offers more seats – 7 vs 5.

In terms of curb weight, Chevrolet Malibu is markedly lighter – 3,135 lbs compared to 3,814 lbs. The difference is around 679 lbs.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Kia Sorento is far ahead overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from $32,000
Sorento

Kia Sorento

  • Engine Type : Gasoline
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front Wheel, All Wheel
  • Power HP : 191 - 281 HP
Chevrolet Malibu
Kia Sorento

Costs and Consumption

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Engine and Performance

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Dimensions and Body

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General

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Chevrolet Malibu

The Chevrolet Malibu is a calm, comfortable commuter that nails the basics with a smooth ride, a spacious cabin, and grown-up styling. It won’t shout about thrills, but it delivers easygoing value, intuitive tech, and an overall polish that makes everyday driving feel a bit more first-class.

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Kia Sorento

The Kia Sorento continues to impress with its sleek design and spacious interior, making it a popular choice for families and adventurers alike. This SUV offers a comfortable and refined ride, coupled with a range of modern features that enhance convenience and connectivity. With its strong performance and emphasis on safety, the Kia Sorento stands out in the competitive SUV market.

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Chevrolet Malibu
Kia Sorento

Costs and Consumption

Price
25,800 - 31,500 $
Price
32,000 - 47,400 $
FuelEconomy City
-
FuelEconomy City
20 - 23 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
-
FuelEconomy Hwy
27 - 31 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
15.8 gal
Fuel tank capacity
17.7 gal

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Sedan
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
6 - 7
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
3,135 - 3,223 lbs
Curb weight
3,814 - 4,213 lbs
Trunk Volume
15.7 cu. ft.
Trunk Volume
-
Length
194.2 in.
Length
189 in.
Width
73 in.
Width
74.8 in.
Height
57 in.
Height
66 - 70 in.

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Drive Type
Front Wheel
Drive Type
Front Wheel, All Wheel
Power HP
163 HP
Power HP
191 - 281 HP
Torque
184 lb-ft
Torque
181 - 311 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
-
Engine Displacement
2.5 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
Brand
Chevrolet
Brand
Kia
DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP). Taxes, registration fees and dealer charges are not included.