If you’re currently hunting around for a versatile, inexpensive car, we’re sure you’ve landed on two of the more popular nameplates in the industry: the 2018 Chevy Malibu and the 2018 Ford Fusion. From an outsider’s perspective, these two models may seem relatively comparable. However, when you start to dive into the individual specs and features, it will be pretty clear that the 2018 Chevy Malibu is the superior offering. Below, we’ve compared the 2018 Chevy Malibu vs. 2018 Ford Fusion. When you’re finished reading, you’ll understand why Chevy’s model should be higher on your list of targets.
Performance
2018 Chevy Malibu
If you’re focused on the performance capabilities of your new ride, then you’ll surely be impressed with the pair of engine options that can be included in the 2018 Chevy Malibu.
The 1.5-liter ECOTEC engine is for those seeking optimal fuel efficiency. Engineers cleverly included a number of fuel-saving technologies like Variable Valve Timing, Direct Injection, and stop/start technology, with each of these features playing their own role in maximizing fuel efficiency. Ultimately, drivers can anticipate a 36-mile-per-gallon highway fuel economy from the ride, saving you plenty of extra money at the gas station. The unit is also capable of delivering a maximum highway fuel range of up to 560 miles per tank.
If you’re looking for a bit more power, you could consider the 2.0-liter turbo engine, which cranks out optimal performance specs. The turbocharged ECOTEC engine cranks out 250 horsepower, meaning you’ll be more than ready to overcome your fellow drivers on the highway. Plus, thanks to the inclusion of the accompanying nine-speed automatic transmission, you can expect the ideal driving experience.
2018 Ford Fusion
While the Chevy Malibu provides customers with the ability to choose from two capable engine offerings, Ford boosts the number of available options to four in their 2018 Fusion. However, you can’t necessarily say that this is all that beneficial, as the four offerings prove to be a bit inferior to those included in Chevy’s ride.
The 2.7-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine is the most impressive option among the group of offerings, as the unit delivers all of the power you could possibly want from a smaller sedan. The system ultimately pumps out 325 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, and the accompanying six-speed automatic transmission makes the ride incredibly easy to control.
Alternatively, customers can opt for 1.5-liter Ecoboost engine, which delivers optimal fuel efficiency. The unit is capable of delivering 34 miles per gallon on the highway, some of the best numbers in the entire class. The unit also manages to deliver 181 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque, making the engine one of the brand’s most versatile engines.
There are two more options to choose from: the 2.5-liter Duratec engine and the 2.0-liter Ecoboost engine. These two offerings seemingly provide underwhelming specs in both performance and efficiency, making them non-factors during your car search.
Technology
2018 Chevy Malibu
You’ll never be bored when you’re traveling in a 2018 Chevy Malibu, as the vehicle is equipped with many useful technological features. The star of the interior is the Chevrolet MyLink system, which makes it easy to access all of your preferred applications. Whether you’re looking for quick access to radio or navigation, the intuitive system will guide you to the program with a push of a button.
Plus, the system is equipped with the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto technologies. Thanks to these features, drivers can easily access many of their phone’s most basic functions, including texts, phone calls, and playlists. That way, you’ll never have to take your eyes off the road as you’re looking to access your gadget.
Plus, the brand even includes a Wireless Charging dock, meaning you’ll never have to deal with pesky wires when you’re looking to charge up on your ride. This will maximize convenience, and you can be assured that your phone will always be fully juiced in the car.
Finally, the 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot provides a strong wireless internet connection for up to seven different devices. Instead of having to drive around looking for a cafe with internet you can continue on your trip and rely on the built-in system.
2018 Ford Fusion
Many of the technological features that are included in the 2018 Ford Fusion tend to impact the drivability of the car. While these are certainly appreciated, we’re sure you’re more focused on the amenities that tend to impact enjoyment and convenience. Unfortunately, those features are few and far between in this nameplate.
The main feature is the SYNC 3… and that’s about it. Sure, the system is plenty impressive, delivering a number of useful applications via the intuitive touchscreen interface. The unit is also capable of delivering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly connect to your smartphone.
…and that’s basically it. If you’re looking for the utmost boredom during your commute, then the 2018 Ford Fusion may be the perfect choice. If you’re looking to actually enjoy your drive, you’ll probably want to opt for a different car altogether.
Safety
2018 Chevy Malibu
While the Chevy Malibu has been built to help protect occupants in the event of an emergency, the car is also equipped with technological features that will help you avoid those accidents in the first place. There are a plethora of preventative safety features available and included in the Malibu:
- Front/Rear Park Assist
- Front Pedestrian Braking
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Forward Automatic Braking
- Lane Keep Assist (with Lane Departure Warning)
- Rear Vision Camera
If you do find yourself in an accident, the Malibu will do everything in its power to keep you safe and secure. The airbag sensing system will only deploy the unit with the necessary amount of cushion, thus eliminating any vicarious injuries. Meanwhile, the steel safety cage won’t compromise during a crash, assuring you and your passengers will never be left with debilitating injuries.
Finally, if help is needed, the OnStar Safety and Security Plan has your back. The accompanying Automatic Crash Response system will connect you with an OnStar Advisor, who can subsequently summon emergency help to the site of the crash.
2018 Ford Fusion
Ford wants you to “feel confident” when you’re driving around in your 2018 Fusion, but we wouldn’t say that any of the vehicles are all that innovative or impressive. Sure, engineers did an admirable job of adding preventative safety features to the ride, but they’re not any different than those included in rival cars.
Curiously, many of the safety functions are intended to make parking a whole lot easier. While these are appreciated, they generally only prevent fender benders, thus minimizing their importance. The Enhanced Active Park Assist and the Standard Rear View Camera should eliminate any issues you have while parking, but they won’t be all that useful when traveling on the highway.
The important safety functions include the Lane-Keeping System and the Cross-Traffic Alert, a pair of inclusions that should prevent dangerous accidents from occurring.
If it wasn’t already pretty clear, it should be obvious now: when it comes to the competition of the 2018 Chevy Malibu vs the 2018 Ford Fusion, Chevy’s offering clearly stands out.
