VS

Chevrolet Malibu vs Subaru Outback - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (163 HP vs 260 HP), trunk space and price (25,800 $ vs 29,000 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Chevrolet Malibu or Subaru Outback?

Chevrolet Malibu vs Subaru Outback: Key differences

Chevrolet Malibu

  • moderately cheaper
  • somewhat lighter

Subaru Outback

  • visibly more power

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Malibu

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

Chevrolet Malibu is moderately cheaper – starting at 25,800 $ , while the Subaru Outback costs 29,000 $ . That’s a price difference of around 3,210 $.

Outback

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 Subaru Outback offers visibly more power – delivering 260 HP compared to 163 HP. That’s roughly 97 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Subaru Outback delivers markedly more torque with 277 lb-ft compared to 184 lb-ft. That’s about 93 lb-ft more.

Malibu

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Chevrolet Malibu is somewhat lighter – 3,135 lbs compared to 3,641 lbs. The difference is around 506 lbs.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Subaru Outback stands out in the key areas 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 $29,000
Outback

Subaru Outback

  • Engine Type : Gasoline
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All Wheel
  • Power HP : 182 - 260 HP
Chevrolet Malibu
Subaru Outback

Costs and Consumption

View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance

View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body

View detailed analysis

General

View detailed analysis

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.

details

Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback remains the outdoorsy wagon that laughs at muddy trails and shrugs off long commutes, mixing a calm ride with genuine rough-road talent. With a roomy cabin, loads of safety tech and a practical, adventure-ready layout, it’s the no-drama choice for families who prefer trailheads to valet stands.

details
Chevrolet Malibu
Subaru Outback

Costs and Consumption

Price
25,800 - 31,500 $
Price
29,000 - 42,900 $
FuelEconomy City
-
FuelEconomy City
21 - 26 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
-
FuelEconomy Hwy
26 - 32 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
15.8 gal
Fuel tank capacity
18.5 gal

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Sedan
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
3,135 - 3,223 lbs
Curb weight
3,641 - 3,946 lbs
Trunk Volume
15.7 cu. ft.
Trunk Volume
-
Length
194.2 in.
Length
191.3 - 191.9 in.
Width
73 in.
Width
74.2 - 74.6 in.
Height
57 in.
Height
66 in.

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Drive Type
Front Wheel
Drive Type
All Wheel
Power HP
163 HP
Power HP
182 - 260 HP
Torque
184 lb-ft
Torque
176 - 277 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
-
Engine Displacement
2.4 - 2.5 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General

Model Year
2,025
Model Year
2,025
Brand
Chevrolet
Brand
Subaru
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.