When you want a midsize sedan, you’re looking for something that will offer you the best fuel economy for the size as well as additional safety features that will keep your family safe while you’re driving across town or around the country. While they won’t offer the fuel economy that you could expect with a compact or subcompact vehicle, these midsize sedans still give you a decent option for driving and still having space for friends and family.
The Chevrolet Malibu has been around for many years, as has the Ford Fusion. While the Malibu is very well rated and slightly more expensive, Ford provides a more economical option for those who are price-sensitive. Both models are solid offerings in the mid-size vehicle market.
Interior Design and Details
The standard cargo tie downs, cruise control, power outlets, power front and rear windows and driver information center apply to both vehicles; the only true interior differences are to be found in the look and feel of the dashboard and the material that the components are made out of. While the design itself is subjective, the Fusion offers a little bit of an upgrade as far as interior materials. The Fusion also provides a 6-way power driver’s seat direction control versus the 2-way controls for the Malibu and a tilt steering wheel, although only the Malibu has lumbar support.
Security Options
Curtain air bags abound for both vehicles, which is standard for this class of midsize sedan that is meant for hauling families and keeping them safe. The real difference here comes in the addition of OnStar Directions and Connections in the Malibu that provides a range of emergency services such as remote door unlock, turn-by-turn navigation, remote lights and horn, hands-free calling and stolen vehicle tracking. The Malibu also protects its radio with a TheftLock system as well as a PASS-Key III+ ignition disable to deter theft even further.
Fuel Economy
You won’t find two vehicles much closer in terms of fuel economy: the Malibu runs 22 mpg city / 33 mpg highway and the Fusion clocks in at 22 mpg city / 32 mpg highway. The ¼ mile speed of the Fusion is a good bit faster at 7.9 seconds instead of 8.8, but this additional pickup may cost some fuel.
Both the Malibu and the Fusion provide a solid option in the mid-size sedan category, that will be cost-effective and fuel-effective while safely getting your family where it needs to go.
