2025 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2024 Kia Forte Review

Picture of the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu

2025 Chevrolet
Malibu

MSRP*: $25,800 to $31,500
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Picture of the 2024 Kia Forte

2024 Kia
Forte

MSRP*: $19,990 to $25,390
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MPG - City Info not available 22 - 30 MPG
MPG - Hwy Info not available 31 - 41 MPG
Seating Capacity 5 seats 5 seats
Cargo Space Info not available Info not available
Engine
  • 163-hp, 1.5-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
  • 147-hp, 2.0-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
  • 201-hp, 1.6-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
Transmission Continuously Variable Automatic, Continuously Variable, Manual
Drivetrain Front Wheel Drive Front Wheel Drive
Horsepower 163 hp 147 - 201 hp
Exterior Length 194.2 in 182.7 in
Exterior Width 73.0 in 70.9 in
Leg Room Front 41.5 in
Rear 38.1 in
Front 42.2 in
Rear 35.7 in
Head Room Front 39.1 in
Rear 37.5 in
Front 38.8 in
Rear 37.5 in

*MSRP and Invoice prices displayed are for educational purposes only, do not reflect the actual selling price of a particular vehicle, and do not include applicable gas taxes or destination charges.

Comparison Review

Comfort
Due to its greater rear head- and legroom, backseat passengers will be able to stretch out a lot more in the Chevrolet Malibu than the Kia Forte. As far as headroom and legroom go, there's not much difference between the Chevrolet Malibu and the Kia Forte in the front seats.

Cost
There are a lot of factors to consider when calculating the overall cost of a vehicle. The main consideration is Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). The Chevrolet Malibu is somewhat more expensive than the Kia Forte.

Dimensions
Since the Chevrolet Malibu is much wider than the Kia Forte, finding a wide enough spot in a parking lot may be a bit more challenging. If you go with the Chevrolet Malibu, you may be circling the block looking for a space large enough to park more often than with the Kia Forte.

Handling
The Chevrolet Malibu has a larger turning radius than the Kia Forte, making it slightly more difficult to maneuver in and out of tight spots.

Performance
When it comes to horsepower, the Chevrolet Malibu is somewhat more powerful than the Kia Forte.

Powertrain
Due to its much higher torque, the engine of the Chevrolet Malibu does a much better job of transmitting power to the wheels than the Kia Forte.

Utility
In terms of seating you'll be able to fit the same number of people in both the Chevrolet Malibu and the Kia Forte.