“I love the Malibu and I am extremely disappointed that GM is dropping it. SUV's are not what everyone wants!”
2022 Chevrolet Malibu: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2022 Chevrolet Malibu is the loss of the base L trim, making the LS the new starting point. It is otherwise a light update, with a standard electronic parking brake and a few equipment changes.
About the 2022 Chevrolet Malibu
9th generation (2016-2025), after the 2019 refresh; late-cycle model year.
Chevrolet positions the Malibu as a stylish, comfortable midsize sedan for everyday driving. The brochure leans on expressive looks, a smooth ride, easy-to-use tech, and a roomy cabin rather than aggressive performance. In this class, Malibu’s appeal is straightforward usability: wireless smartphone integration, a clean dashboard, comfortable seating, and a choice between an efficient mainstream setup and a stronger top-trim turbo engine.
The LS is the straightforward starting point, with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 1.5-liter turbo engine. The RS adds black exterior details, 18-inch wheels, and a rear spoiler, while the LT focuses on everyday comfort. Premier is the upscale and stronger version, pairing a 2.0-liter turbo engine with leather seating, built-in navigation, and Bose audio.
What changed, by category
Lineup
Chevrolet drops the base L trim, leaving LS, RS, LT, and Premier. LS becomes the entry trim.
Tech
An electronic parking brake becomes standard across the lineup.
Comfort equipment
Heated front seats change from standard to optional on LT and Premier. Ventilated front seats also change from standard to optional on Premier.
2022 Chevrolet Malibu specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, CVT | Automatic, CVT | Automatic, CVT | Automatic, 9-Spd |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 29 mpg | 29 mpg | 29 mpg | 22 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 36 mpg | 36 mpg | 36 mpg | 33 mpg |
| Horsepower | 163 hp | 163 hp | 163 hp | 250 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft | 260 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1000 lb | 1000 lb | 1000 lb | 1000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 15.7 cu-ft | 15.7 cu-ft | 15.7 cu-ft | 15.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 38.1 in | 38.1 in | 38.1 in | 38.1 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||||
| Automatic High Beams | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Park Assist | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| LED Daytime Running Lights | ||||
| LED Headlights | ||||
| LED Tail Lights | ||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2022 Chevrolet Malibu a redesigned model?
No. The 2022 Malibu remains part of the ninth generation and carries over the same basic sedan design from 2021. Its main updates are a shorter trim lineup and revised equipment.
Which trims does the 2022 Chevrolet Malibu have?
The 2022 Malibu comes in LS, RS, LT, and Premier trims. The former base L trim is dropped, so LS becomes the entry model.
Does every 2022 Chevrolet Malibu have an electronic parking brake?
Yes. An electronic parking brake is standard across all 2022 Malibu trims.
Are heated front seats standard in the 2022 Chevrolet Malibu LT and Premier?
No. Heated front seats are optional rather than standard on the 2022 LT and Premier. Ventilated front seats are also optional rather than standard on Premier.
What is the main difference between the 2022 Malibu Premier and the other trims?
The 2022 Malibu Premier is the only trim with the stronger 2.0-liter turbo engine and a 9-speed automatic transmission. It also has upscale features such as leather seating, built-in navigation, Bose audio, and a heated steering wheel.
2022 Chevrolet Malibu Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2022 Chevrolet Malibu.
4.1
2022 Chevrolet Malibu
(100 reviews)
“I think the overall comfort ride stability and looks are excellent in this vehicle”
“Does not look sleek like a Malibu. It's a 4 banger, would rather have a V6. Back cloth on dash is weird.”