Chevy Malibu Snags Honors For Best Midsize Car During J.D. Power Initial Quality Study

The Chevy Malibu finished ahead of the Ford Fusion and Kia Optima in the mid-size car category for the Best Midsize non-premium car in the 2020 J.D. Power Initial Quality Study, which were ranked second and third. By using the IQS, J.D. Power's goal is to shine the light on new cars that experience the least amount of trouble over the first 90 days of ownership. A sample of those who own 2020 model year vehicles is surveyed and asked to report on any problem they experience with the car during the first three months, no matter if it is minor or major.

Every vehicle present in the study is ultimately scored based on the number of problems it encounters per 100 vehicles, with lower scores reflecting a higher amount of problems. Surprisingly, older vehicles typically have the ability to far better in the IQS. This is because automakers have usually ironed out many of the kinks, and there is not the presence of new technologies which can be prone to malfunction or break down. The current Malibu was introduced five years ago for the 2016 model year.

 

All three of the top mid-size cars in the IQS are models showing just a bit of age, with the Fusion standing at a 7-year lifespan and the Optima at five. As a unit overall, the brand we are so proud to represent here every day at the Mid-Missouri Powerhouse performed extremely well in the 2020 IQS. The review staff of Edmunds.com states that the Malibu's spacious exterior, ample front-seat headroom, and easy-to-use touchscreen interface were traits that made the Malibu notch higher up their list.

There are two turbocharged 4-cylinder engine options: a base 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter engine, and many online publications have hailed this Malibu model as one of the best cars out there that won't break the bank. Most customers we have remained in close touch with are happy they selected the Premier trim, with the powerful engine making daily driving that much more enjoyable. You'll enjoy averaging around 37 MPG in mixed city/highway driving, and a smooth and confident ride even if you are dealing with slightly aging infrastructure under the wheels.

Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone connectivity are standard, and 4G LTE internet connectivity is found on most trim levels. Keeping the entire family safe on the road has long been one of the most important ideals when we meet people looking for their next purchase. Available active safety features on the Malibu include blind spot warning with rear cross- traffic alert, lane keep assist, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking,

adaptive cruise control, and automatic high-beam headlights.