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Chevrolet Malibu vs Volkswagen Jetta - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (163 HP vs 158 HP), trunk space and price (25,800 $ vs 22,000 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Chevrolet Malibu or Volkswagen Jetta?

Chevrolet Malibu vs Volkswagen Jetta: Key differences

Chevrolet Malibu

  • marginally more power
  • moderately more trunk space

Volkswagen Jetta

  • somewhat cheaper
  • very slightly lighter

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

Malibu

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

Volkswagen Jetta is somewhat cheaper – starting at 22,000 $ , while the Chevrolet Malibu costs 25,800 $ . That’s a price difference of around 3,805 $.

Jetta

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 Chevrolet Malibu offers marginally more power – delivering 163 HP compared to 158 HP. That’s roughly 5 HP more horsepower.

Both models offer the same torque – 184 lb-ft.

Malibu

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Volkswagen Jetta is very slightly lighter – 3,012 lbs compared to 3,135 lbs. The difference is around 123 lbs.

In terms of cargo space, the Chevrolet Malibu offers moderately more room – 15.7 cu. ft. compared to 14.1 cu. ft.. That’s a difference of about 1.6 cu. ft..

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Chevrolet Malibu has only a minor advantage 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 $25,800
Malibu

Chevrolet Malibu

  • Engine Type : Gasoline
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front Wheel
  • Power HP : 163 HP
Chevrolet Malibu
Volkswagen Jetta

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.

details

Volkswagen Jetta

The Volkswagen Jetta offers a smooth blend of practicality and style, making it a popular choice among compact sedans. Its interior boasts a modern design with user-friendly features, ensuring a comfortable ride for both driver and passengers. With its balanced performance and fuel efficiency, the Jetta easily adapts to both city commutes and longer road trips.

details
Chevrolet Malibu
Volkswagen Jetta

Costs and Consumption

Price
25,800 - 31,500 $
Price
22,000 - 29,000 $
FuelEconomy City
-
FuelEconomy City
29 - 30 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
-
FuelEconomy Hwy
40 - 41 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
15.8 gal
Fuel tank capacity
13.2 gal

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Sedan
Body Type
Sedan
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
3,135 - 3,223 lbs
Curb weight
3,012 - 3,071 lbs
Trunk Volume
15.7 cu. ft.
Trunk Volume
14.1 cu. ft.
Length
194.2 in.
Length
186.5 in.
Width
73 in.
Width
70.8 in.
Height
57 in.
Height
57 in.

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Drive Type
Front Wheel
Drive Type
Front Wheel
Power HP
163 HP
Power HP
158 HP
Torque
184 lb-ft
Torque
184 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
-
Engine Displacement
1.5 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General

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