Accord vs Malibu
Honda Accord vs. Chevrolet Malibu: Which Sedan Should You Buy in Pueblo, CO?
Midsize sedans tend to be popular here in Pueblo, Colorado, and it’s easy to see why. With efficient, easy-to-drive options like the Honda Accord and Chevrolet Malibu, you can drive affordably and enjoyably over long distances to Colorado City or Colorado Springs. Here is a look at the two midsize sedans that we recommend at Southwest Motors.
Differences in size
When it comes to their dimensions, the Chevy Malibu and Honda Accord are nearly identical, even having the same underlying wheelbase length. The Malibu’s overall body is a bit longer, but the Accord’s front and rear tracks are wider. That extra length gives Malibu passengers a tad more legroom and headroom, but Accord riders will enjoy more shoulder and hip space.
You’ll also see a difference in the cargo space in the trunk. The Accord maximizes the rear-end dimensions to offer about 1 cubic foot more storage space than the Malibu.
Differences in style
The Malibu and Accord take different approaches to their styling. The Malibu prefers to look sporty with its narrow wheel spokes, angular fascia, and intricate grille pattern. Plus, the black accents of the Malibu RS are truly athletic and ready to cruise through downtown on a Saturday night.
The Accord leans toward mature, conservative vibes with its traditional fascia design, subdued body colors, and refined use of chrome accents. It’s the fashion you want to have as a cultured businessperson or respectable entrepreneur.
Differences in performance
The performance of the Malibu and Accord vary widely depending on which powertrain you have equipped. Most used Accord models have a VTEC® four-cylinder engine, either a 1.5-liter turbo reaching 192 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque (10.3:1 compression ratio) or a 2.0-liter turbo with a greater displacement boosting it to 252 hp and 273 lb-ft (9.8:1).
The Accord Hybrid is the most enticing version with robust power of 212 total system horsepower, faster acceleration with 232 lb-ft of low-end torque, and an impressive fuel economy reaching over 600 miles in estimated driving range.
Used Chevrolet Malibu cars have comparable engines: a 1.5-liter turbo rated at 160 hp and 184 lb-ft (CVT transmission) or a 2.0-liter turbo reaching 250 hp and 260 lb-ft (9-speed automatic). Judging purely based on these numbers, you can expect the Accord to have more pep in its step. Differences in fuel economy are negligible between comparable engines.
Differences in features
Sedan drivers love having many options to choose from, and the Malibu and Accord deliver that. It’s hard to compare the two sedans directly because they come in so many different versions in recent model years. Case in point: the Accord comes in approximately a dozen different trim levels!
The Accord includes more standard safety features on older models, like Lane Departure Warning and Froward Collision Warning, in its Honda Sensing® suite. Similar features weren’t standard on all Malibu models, as only some trim levels came with the Driver Confidence or Driver Confidence II packages.
On the flipside, Chevrolet tended to give the Malibu better infotainment technology than the Accord has possessed, such as a bigger touch screen and inclusion of Android Auto™/Apple CarPlay® earlier.
Differences in price
The Malibu began with a lower MSRP when it first rolled off the assembly line, so you typically find used Chevy Malibu cars priced cheaper than used Honda Accord cars. Though, Honda models like the Accord tend to retain their value better than Chevys, so that may interest you if you plan to flip your sedan eventually for something else.
Whichever sedan is the right one for you, head to Southwest Motors to buy your next car. Our Pueblo used car dealership is ready to connect you with a ride that’s right for you!