2025 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Review

Picture of the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu

2025 Chevrolet
Malibu

MSRP*: $25,800 to $31,500
See details & photos

Find Your Best Price Today!

Picture of the 2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

2024 Volkswagen
Jetta GLI

MSRP*: $28,085 to $32,585
See details & photos

Find Your Best Price Today!

MPG - City Info not available 24 - 26 MPG
MPG - Hwy Info not available 35 - 36 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)
  • 228-hp, 2.0-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
Transmission Continuously Variable Automatic, Manual
Drivetrain Front Wheel Drive Front Wheel Drive
Horsepower 163 hp 228 hp
Exterior Length 194.2 in 186.9 in
Exterior Width 73.0 in 70.8 in
Leg Room Front 41.5 in
Rear 38.1 in
Front 41.1 in
Rear 37.4 in
Head Room Front 39.1 in
Rear 37.5 in
Front 37.9 - 38.5 in
Rear 37.2 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
The Chevrolet Malibu offers a bit more room for passengers in the back seat than the Volkswagen Jetta GLI. Offering just a little more front head- and legroom than the Volkswagen Jetta GLI, the Chevrolet Malibu may be a little roomier and more comfortable for the driver and front seat passengers.

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). When looking only at MSRP, the Chevrolet Malibu will have less of an impact on your bank account than the Volkswagen Jetta GLI.

Dimensions
Since the Chevrolet Malibu is much wider than the Volkswagen Jetta GLI, finding a wide enough spot in a parking lot may be a bit more challenging. For some people, bigger is better. If that's the case for you, then you'll be happier with the Chevrolet Malibu, which is slightly longer than the Volkswagen Jetta GLI.

Handling
The Chevrolet Malibu has about the same turning radius as the Volkswagen Jetta GLI, allowing equal maneuverability in and out of tight spots.

Performance
When it comes to horsepower, the Chevrolet Malibu is significantly less powerful than the Volkswagen Jetta GLI. The good news is that, reportedly, cars with lower horsepower engines often have lower insurance premiums.

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 Volkswagen Jetta GLI.

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