2019 Chevrolet Malibu Arrives With Styling Refresh And New RS Trim

Some three years after its NY Auto Show presentation, the ninth generation Chevrolet Malibu has received a few styling and technology updates.

Among the changes brought forward by the GM-owned brand are the modified grille, headlamps and taillights, different exhaust tips, new chrome trim, colors and wheel designs. The lighting units on both ends get LED tech in the LT and Premier grades, while the latter adds full LED clusters, too.

The Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system is found inside, with a new 8-inch touchscreen display offered as standard across the range. Opt for the Premier model and see the analogue instrument cluster getting replaced by an 8-inch digital system. The L features a reversing camera at no extra cost, whereas the Premier is equipped with standard heated outboard rear seats.

Just like other Chevy models, including the Traverse and Cruze, the 2019 Malibu gets the RS treatment. Updates include the introduction of a black grille and bowtie emblems, rear spoiler, dual exhaust pipes and 18-inch alloy wheels.

The aforementioned infotainment system sits in the middle of the dashboard, joined by the leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift lever, and black cloth seats.

Despite the more aggressive look, the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu RS only uses a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine. It develops 163hp (165PS / 122kW) and 184lb-ft (249Nm) of torque, and is paired to what the automaker calls a “new CVT”.

The larger turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with 250hp (254PS / 187kW) and 260lb-ft (352Nm) of torque, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission, comes exclusively with the Premier model.

Chevrolet will launch the restyled Malibu this fall, and the new RS trim will cost around $25,000.