Nissan Altima Hybrid vs. Chevrolet Malibu Review

Cost
Producing an accurate fuel economy evaluation is so difficult that some think not even the federal government can do it, but it looks as though the Nissan Altima Hybrid is the winner in terms of fuel economy. The Nissan Altima Hybrid will tax your gas budget tremendously more than the Chevrolet Malibu will. The Nissan Altima Hybrid isn't much pricier than the Malibu as far as MSRP.

Utility
Neither the Chevrolet Malibu nor the Nissan Altima Hybrid has a marked advantage in terms of seating capacity.

Convenience
You will have to visit your friendly gas station more often with the Chevrolet Malibu than with the Nissan.

Comfort
Taller drivers will significantly enjoy the extra head room in the Nissan Altima Hybrid's front cabin compared to the Chevrolet Malibu. The ampler interior dimensions of the Chevrolet Malibu make it more spacious for your passengers than the Altima Hybrid.

Dimensions
Your wallet will hurt more every time you fill up the Altima Hybrid than the Chevrolet Malibu because of its larger tank. The Altima Hybrid and the Malibu compete for the same parking spaces.

Performance
As far as horsepower, the Chevrolet Malibu packs quite a punch and will knock the Altima Hybrid down a few rungs. However, bear in mind that high horsepower engines often command higher insurance premiums.

Handling
With their similar turning radii, the Nissan Altima Hybrid and the Malibu definitely handle about the same into and out of tight spots.

Drivetrain
The Nissan's engine isn't much bigger than the Chevrolet Malibu's.

Warranty
The Nissan Altima Hybrid and the Chevrolet Malibu have the same basic after-sale protection.