MODEL
Chevrolet Malibu
NHTSA safety across every Chevrolet Malibu model year we cover.
Across the 7 model years of the Chevrolet Malibu we cover (2019 to 2025), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2025 at 87 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2020 at 80. 10 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Chevrolet Malibu is a midsize family sedan that has competed in one of America's most contested segments for decades. Aimed at value-conscious buyers who want a practical, comfortable four-door without stepping into a crossover, the Malibu sits squarely between entry-level compacts and premium near-luxury alternatives. For 2019 through its final model years, it remains a mainstream choice for commuters and families alike.
The Chevrolet Malibu earns genuine respect on the safety front, and the numbers back that up. Its best NHTSA Safety Index reaches 87 out of 100 in 2025, placing it in the Strong band, which is a meaningful result for a mainstream midsize sedan. Crash-test performance at its peak is legitimately impressive: a perfect 5 out of 5 stars in both frontal and side-impact testing, with a solid 4 out of 5 in rollover protection. That rollover score is typical for low-riding sedans, which by geometry carry less rollover risk than SUVs but rarely achieve a perfect five. Across the 2019 to 2025 model years we cover, the Malibu has accumulated 10 recalls, a figure that warrants attention but is not alarming for a model spanning six-plus years in production. Owners have filed 608 complaints in our dataset, including 27 reported crashes, 20 injuries, and 1 death. These are unverified allegations and must be treated as such, but the volume is worth monitoring before purchase. Shoppers should verify that any open recalls have been addressed by a dealer before taking delivery. On balance, the Malibu presents a respectable safety profile anchored by strong crash-test scores, though its complaint volume and recall count deserve due diligence.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Malibu as a competent, inoffensive midsize sedan that delivers a comfortable ride and adequate interior space for the price. Most note that it faces stiff competition in its segment and that the driving experience is not a standout, but they tend to acknowledge it as a sensible, practical choice for buyers prioritizing everyday usability.
- The Malibu achieves a peak NHTSA Safety Index of 87 out of 100 in 2025, placing it in the Strong band, which is one of the better results you will find in the midsize sedan class.
- Frontal and side crash-test ratings reach 5 out of 5 stars at their best, indicating strong structural protection in the most common collision scenarios, though the rollover rating of 4 out of 5 is worth noting for buyers who want a complete picture.
- Ten recalls have been issued across the 2019 to 2025 model years covered here. Before buying any used Malibu, run the VIN through NHTSA's free recall database to confirm all open recalls have been remedied.
- Owner complaints total 608 in our dataset, with 27 reported crashes, 20 injuries, and 1 death listed as unverified allegations. While these figures do not establish fault or confirm defects, they are an important signal for shoppers to research specific model year complaint patterns before purchasing.
Most-recalled year on record: 2024 Chevrolet Malibu with 2 recalls.