2010 Chevrolet Malibu: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2010 Chevrolet Malibu is expanded FlexFuel capability, with the LT and LTZ joining the E85-compatible lineup. Otherwise, it is a light update, and the Hybrid shifts to very limited fleet-only availability.
About the 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
7th generation (2008-2012), third model year before the 2013 redesign.
Chevrolet marketed the Malibu as a midsize sedan with cleaner styling, a quieter cabin, and a more upscale feel than many older Chevrolets. Its core appeal was practical family-sedan usefulness, solid safety hardware, and a cabin that aimed to feel more polished than many mainstream rivals. In LT and LTZ form, Chevrolet pushed it as a mainstream sedan with near-premium comfort and design rather than a stripped-down commuter.
The 2010 Malibu remains a comfort-focused midsize sedan, with the LS covering the basics and the LT serving as the better-equipped middle trim with a 6-speed automatic. The LTZ adds heated leather-appointed seats, automatic climate control, and Bose audio, while the rare Hybrid uses stop/start operation and regenerative braking to improve city fuel economy.
What changed, by category
2010 Chevrolet Malibu specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / 4-Cyl, Flex Fuel, 2.4L / V6, Flex Fuel, 3.5L / V6, 3.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / V6, 3.6 Liter / 4-Cyl, Flex Fuel, 2.4L | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / V6, 3.6 Liter / 4-Cyl, Flex Fuel, 2.4L | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 2.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 4-Spd Overdrive | Auto, 6-Spd Overdrive & TAPshft / Auto, 6-Spd Overdrive | Auto, 6-Spd Overdrive & TAPshft / Auto, 4-Spd Overdrive | Auto, 4-Spd Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Hybrid |
| MPG City | 18–22 mpg | 17–22 mpg | 17–22 mpg | 26 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 29–30 mpg | 26–33 mpg | 26–33 mpg | 34 mpg |
| Horsepower | 169–221 hp | 169–252 hp | 169–252 hp | |
| Torque | 160–221 lb-ft | 160–251 lb-ft | 160–251 lb-ft | |
| Max Towing | 1000 lb | 1000 lb | 1000 lb | 1000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 15.1 cu-ft | 15.1 cu-ft | 15.1 cu-ft | 13.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37.6 in | 37.6 in | 37.6 in | 37.6 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Rear Window Shades | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2010 Chevrolet Malibu?
The biggest change is wider FlexFuel coverage. The LT and LTZ gain E85-compatible powertrains for 2010, while most of the Malibu lineup otherwise carries over.
Was the 2010 Chevrolet Malibu redesigned?
No, the 2010 Malibu was not redesigned. It remains part of the seventh generation introduced for 2008, with only light powertrain, wheel, and color updates for this model year.
Which 2010 Chevrolet Malibu trims gained FlexFuel capability?
The LT and LTZ gained FlexFuel capability for 2010. These versions can use gasoline or E85 ethanol fuel.
Was the 2010 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid sold as a regular retail model?
No, the 2010 Malibu Hybrid shifted to very limited fleet-only availability rather than remaining a normal retail showroom model. It kept its stop/start hybrid system, regenerative braking, and dedicated hybrid gauges.
Is the 2010 Chevrolet Malibu substantially different from the 2009 model?
No, the 2010 Malibu is not substantially different from the 2009 model. Its main advantage is wider FlexFuel coverage on the LT and LTZ; the body, cabin, safety equipment, and general trim structure change very little.