According to Winslow Chevrolet, new features for 2021 include standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The LT gets a new Sport Edition, which adds 19-inch black wheels, a black grille, and a black Chevrolet logo to the grille and trunk lid. Also new is GM’s new Buckle-to-Drive system. This standard feature won’t allow the driver to shift the transmission out of park unless the seatbelt is fastened.

Autotrader wrote: “Although this Chevrolet might not be first in mind when thinking of midsize sedans, the Malibu is good enough to deserve consideration.”

The 2021 Chevrolet Malibu seats five and comes in five trim levels: L, LS, RS, LT and Premier. All models except the Premier are equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, teamed to a CVT. The Premier is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder unit that develops 250 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard across the lineup.

The base engine returns an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 29 mpg city/36 mpg highway.* The turbocharged 2.0-liter unit checks in with 22 mpg city/32 mpg highway.

Inside, the driver and passengers are treated to a modern, attractive cabin. The materials have the feel of quality, and there are many soft-touch surfaces. The Malibu’s infotainment system is very user-friendly, with large knobs and icons that are easy to use. Everyone will stay comfortable in the comfy front seats, and even tall passengers will enjoy the Malibu’s generous legroom that will allow them to stretch their legs and relax.

Standard features for the base Malibu L trim include alloy wheels, cloth upholstery, six-way manually adjustable front seats, a rearview camera, proximity keyless entry, a six-speaker audio system, an infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth.

The LS trim gets the Teen Driver system and a Wi-Fi hotspot. This model opens the door to several option packages and available features.

The RS comes with larger alloy wheels, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, black exterior accents, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and a rear spoiler.

Step up to the LT, and you’ll enjoy remote start, heated front seats, heated outside mirrors, power-adjustable outside mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control and satellite radio. The LT is eligible for a number of optional features and packages.

The top-line Premier trim features leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a six-way power-adjustable passenger seat, a heated steering wheel, an 8-inch digital driver information display, navigation, a Bose premium audio system with nine speakers, an AC power outlet, wireless device charging and two rear USB ports. Options include adaptive cruise control, automatic parking assist and an electronic parking brake.

* All vehicle mileage based on 2021 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.