2011 Chevrolet Malibu: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2011 Chevrolet Malibu is a light update rather than a redesign. Its biggest change is a six-speed automatic on every trim, replacing the four-speed automatic previously used by the LS.
About the 2011 Chevrolet Malibu
7th generation (2008-2012), fourth year before the 2013 redesign.
Chevrolet positioned the 2011 Malibu as a dependable midsize family sedan with a quieter cabin, solid crash protection, and strong highway fuel economy from its standard four-cylinder engine. The brochure leans on themes like dependability, 33-mpg-highway efficiency, acoustic glass, and calm road manners rather than flashy gadgets. Against Camry, Accord, and Fusion, Malibu’s pitch is a clean, more upscale look and a composed ride for commuting, errands, and longer highway trips.
The LS is the straightforward family sedan, with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, cruise control, keyless entry, and noise-reducing glass. The LT adds a dressier look and aluminum wheels, while the comfort-focused LTZ has heated leather-appointed front seats, Bose audio, automatic climate control, and LED taillamps.
What changed, by category
2011 Chevrolet Malibu specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / 4-Cyl. 2.4 Liter FFV / V6, 3.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / 4-Cyl, Flex Fuel, 2.4 Liter / V6, 3.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & TAPshift | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & TAPshift / Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & TAPshift / Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Flexible Fuel |
| MPG City | 22 mpg | 17–22 mpg | 17–22 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 33 mpg | 26–33 mpg | 26–33 mpg |
| Horsepower | 169 hp | 169–252 hp | 169–252 hp |
| Torque | 160 lb-ft | 160–251 lb-ft | 160–251 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1000 lb | 1000 lb | 1000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 15.1 cu-ft | 15.1 cu-ft | 15.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37.6 in | 37.6 in | 37.6 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | |||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Rear Window Shades | |||
| Remote Start | |||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2011 Chevrolet Malibu redesigned?
No. The 2011 Malibu received a light update within the generation introduced for 2008; its body, cabin, suspension, and underlying structure did not receive a major redesign.
What is the biggest difference between the 2011 and 2010 Chevrolet Malibu?
The biggest difference is the transmission. Every 2011 Malibu has a six-speed automatic with manual shift control, while the 2010 LS still used a four-speed automatic.
Was there a 2011 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid?
No. The Hybrid trim offered for 2010 was dropped from the 2011 Malibu lineup.
Did the 2011 Chevrolet Malibu LS still have a Flexible Fuel version?
No. The Flexible Fuel powertrain option was dropped from the LS for 2011.
What styling changed on the 2011 Chevrolet Malibu?
The styling changes were limited to revised wheel designs. The 1LT received a new 17-inch aluminum-wheel design, but there were no major changes to the body panels or front and rear styling.