Honda Accord
What’s for sale near me?
Above Average: Exceptional fuel economy, comfortable ride, reliable, strong resale, hybrid
Below Average: Frustrating infotainment, conservative styling, options limited by trim
Consensus: About the closest you’ll come to finding the perfect family sedan at a good price
Chevrolet Malibu
What’s for sale near me?
Above Average: Handles well, impressive infotainment, hybrid, sleek styling on 2016 and later models
Below Average: Early hybrid fuel economy, older models have a dated interior, small rear seat and poor resale
Consensus: A rental car favorite prior to the 2016 redesign, then a full-on competitor to the segment’s best
While Chevrolet may be one of the biggest and best know American makes, it has always trailed behind Honda in the midsize family sedan market. The Accord’s huge sales numbers, excellent resale and impressive quality keep it a used car favorite, although if you dig a bit deeper, one can find areas where the Malibu one-ups its Japanese rival. Prior to 2016, the Malibu rode on an older platform not well regarded for its overall sophistication. After 2016, however, the Malibu became a real contender, with a sleek exterior, an impressive technology and infotainment plus a refined interior that put the Accord on notice. Both cars offer fuel-efficient hybrid models, but the Malibu has no answer to the Accord’s V6 engine, manual transmission option and coupe model.
Honda Accord Advantages
Strong resale, excellent reliability, roomy rear seat, strong base engine, V6 engine option, coupe
Chevrolet Malibu Advantages
Large trunk on early models, MyLink infotainment, turbocharged 4-cylinder engines and sleek interior on post 2016 models
Similarities
Both cars offer high-tech infotainment systems, fuel-efficient hybrid models, a comfortable ride and good handling. Later models also feature the latest collision avoidance technology.
Final Recommendation
If you’re looking for a decent family sedan with a big trunk and a really low price, the early Malibu models won’t disappoint. If you’re seeking a big, roomy and powerful sedan with the option of a V6 engine, the Accord is the only way to go. Either car’s hybrid model will satisfy those looking for maximum fuel economy.
OK, so what’s next?
I’m ready for one of these cars, and I’d like to trade in my current car while I’m at it.
