Yes. The 2018 Chevrolet Malibu uses turbocharged engines, featuring a 1.5-liter turbo as the standard engine across most trims and a more powerful 2.0-liter turbo option on higher trims.
Engine options
The Malibu's turbocharged four-cylinder lineup is designed to balance efficiency and performance. Here are the two primary engines and where they're offered:
- 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4: approximately 163 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque; standard on most trims (including L, LS, and LT) and paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission.
- 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4: approximately 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque; available on LT and standard on the Premier trim, also paired with a 9-speed automatic.
Availability of each engine depends on the trim and optional packages, so check with a dealer for exact configurations for a specific Malibu model.
Performance and efficiency
The 1.5T focuses on daily drivability and fuel efficiency, delivering a strong mid-range torque that helps with city and highway merging without heavy fuel use. The 2.0T turns up the heat, offering stronger acceleration and higher top-end performance at the cost of lower fuel economy. Both engines use Chevrolet's 9-speed automatic transmission, contributing to smooth shifts and responsive throttle feel. Real-world fuel economy varies with drivetrain configuration (FWD vs AWD), terrain, and driving style.
Fuel economy and driving dynamics
EPA estimates and real-world figures vary by engine and trim, but the 1.5L turbo typically yields higher miles per gallon on average compared to the 2.0L turbo. If you prioritize efficiency, the 1.5T is the preferable choice; if you want spirited acceleration, the 2.0T is the better fit.
Trim-specific notes
In the 2018 Malibu lineup, the 1.5L turbo was the standard engine on most trims, while the 2.0L turbo was offered on LT and standard on Premier, giving buyers a performance-focused option without resorting to a V6 in this midsize sedan.
Summary
In short, the 2018 Chevy Malibu is indeed turbocharged. It offers a standard 1.5-liter turbo and a more powerful 2.0-liter turbo on higher trims, giving buyers a choice between efficiency and performance depending on their needs.