Chevrolet Malibu vs Toyota Camry: Which Should You Buy in Kuwait?

A complete comparison of the ⁦Chevrolet Malibu⁩ VS ⁦Toyota Camry⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across Kuwait.

⁦Chevrolet Malibu⁩ VS ⁦Toyota Camry⁩: the verdict

The Toyota Camry edges out the Chevrolet Malibu for its superior fuel efficiency, especially with its hybrid option, and broader range of performance. While the Camry offers more powerful engine choices and better economy, the Malibu presents a compelling value proposition, providing a spacious and well-equipped sedan at a more accessible price across its trims.
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Price Comparison
Starting at7,400 – 8,300 KWD7,100 – 10,450 KWD
Engine & Power
Engine1,500 – 2,000 cc · 4 cyl2,487 – 3,456 cc · 4 – 6 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)165 – 250 hp204 – 298 hp
Torque (Nm)250 – 353 Nm221 – 356 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)7 – 8.3 s6.3 – 9.3 s
Top Speed (Km/h)220 – 250 km/h195 – 235 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)7 L/100km4.5 – 7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity61.7 L50 – 60 L
Gears68
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic / CVT
Drive TypeFront Wheel DriveFront Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolHybrid / Petrol
Measurements
L×W×H4.9 m × 1.9 m × 1.5 m4.9 / 4.9 m × 1.8 m × 1.4 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.8 m2.8 / 2.8 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,430 – 1,487 kg1,490 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)453 L427 – 493 L
Overview
Body StyleSedanSedan
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors4 doors
Features
Key features
12V SocketABS (Anti-lock Brake System)AirbagsAnti theft alarmAshtrayAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCigar LighterCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDual Exhaust TipEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFabric SeatsFog Lamps - Front OnlyFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront and Rear Crumple ZoneFront Seat ArmrestGlove Box CoolingHalogen HeadlampsHID HeadlightsHill AssistImmobilizerISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED TaillightsLumbar SupportManual ACMap Reading LampsMP3Multi-Information DisplayNavigation SystemNumber of SpeakersOdometerParking SensorsPower OutletsPower SteeringPower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPush Button StartRadioRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRemote StartSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSeatbelt pretensionerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTouchscreenTouchscreen SizeTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUrethane Shift KnobUSB PortVanity MirrorVehicle Stability Control (VSC)Welcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - SteelXenon Headlamps
12V Socket360-Degree Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive BonnetActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive Brake LightsAirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)BluetoothBody Colored GrilleBonnet LightBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleClimate ControlClimate Controlled SeatsCollision DetectionCompassCornering assistCRASH AUTO DOOR UNLOCKCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDifferential LockDoor Edge ProtectorDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDual Exhaust TipEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectric Opening and Closing of Luggage DoorElectric SunroofFabric SeatsFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFog Lamps - Front OnlyFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront Seat ArmrestFront WindshieldGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHDDHDMIHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistIlluminated Door HandlesIlluminated Door SillsImmobilizerInfotainment ScreenIntelligent KeyiPod InterfaceISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather Gear Shift LeverLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLegroomLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorLumbar SupportManual ACMap Reading LampsMoonroofMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayNight VisionNumber of SpeakersOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff Road KItOff-Road DampersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPerformance TyresPower LocksPower MirrorsPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPuddle LampPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Lcd screensRear Seat PocketsRear SpoilerRear Window DefoggerRemote StartRemote Windows DownScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSeatbelt pretensionerSilver TrimSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTouchscreenTouchscreen SizeTowing HookTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Defect IndicatorTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)Voice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - SteelWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Fuel Efficiency

Toyota Camry. With its available hybrid powertrain, the Camry delivers an outstanding 4.5 L/100km, making it the clear choice for minimizing fuel costs compared to the Malibu's 7 L/100km.

2

Best for Performance Enthusiasts

Toyota Camry. The Camry's top-tier engine offers up to 298 hp and a quicker 0-100 km/h in 6.3 seconds, surpassing the Malibu's maximum 250 hp and 7-second acceleration.

3

Best for Value-Conscious Buyers

Chevrolet Malibu. The Malibu offers a more consistent and lower price range (7,400 – 8,300 KWD) across its variants, providing excellent features for its cost compared to the Camry's higher-end trims.

4

Best for Interior Space

Chevrolet Malibu. The Malibu boasts a slightly wider (1.9m vs 1.8m) and taller (1.5m vs 1.4m) cabin, potentially offering more shoulder and headroom for passengers than the Camry.

Pros & cons

Chevrolet Malibu

Pros

  • More consistent and accessible price range
  • Wider and taller cabin dimensions (1.9m wide, 1.5m tall)
  • Larger standard fuel tank capacity (61.7 L)
  • Competitive acceleration for its price point

Cons

  • No hybrid option, resulting in higher fuel consumption (7 L/100km)
  • Lower maximum power output (250 hp) compared to Camry's top trims
  • Fewer transmission gears (6-speed automatic)
  • Less variety in engine options (only 4-cylinder)

Toyota Camry

Pros

  • Significantly better fuel economy with hybrid option (4.5 L/100km)
  • Higher maximum horsepower (298 hp) and V6 engine option
  • Quicker acceleration (as low as 6.3 seconds)
  • Broader range of trims and engine choices
  • More gears in automatic transmission (8 vs 6)

Cons

  • Higher starting price for some trims and significantly higher top-end price (up to 10,450 KWD)
  • Standard petrol engine fuel economy matches Malibu, not superior
  • Narrower and shorter cabin dimensions (1.8m wide, 1.4m tall)
  • Smaller minimum trunk capacity (427 L)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Chevrolet Malibu or Toyota Camry more fuel-efficient?

The Toyota Camry is significantly more fuel-efficient, especially with its available hybrid powertrain which achieves an impressive 4.5 L/100km. The Chevrolet Malibu offers a respectable 7 L/100km across its range. For drivers prioritizing low fuel consumption, the Camry Hybrid is the superior choice.

Which car offers better performance, the Malibu or the Camry?

The Toyota Camry offers better overall performance, particularly in its higher trims which feature a V6 engine producing up to 298 hp and achieving 0-100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds. The Chevrolet Malibu's most powerful engine provides 250 hp and a 0-100 km/h time of 7 seconds. If power and acceleration are key, the Camry is the better option.

Is the Chevrolet Malibu or Toyota Camry better for budget-conscious buyers in Kuwait?

The Chevrolet Malibu generally offers better value for budget-conscious buyers in Kuwait, with its price range of 7,400 – 8,300 KWD providing a well-equipped sedan at a more accessible cost. While the Toyota Camry has a lower starting price (7,100 KWD), its higher trims can reach up to 10,450 KWD, making the Malibu a more consistent and affordable choice across its range.

Which sedan, the Chevrolet Malibu or Toyota Camry, has more interior space?

The Chevrolet Malibu offers slightly more interior space, particularly in width and height, measuring 1.9m wide and 1.5m tall compared to the Camry's 1.8m width and 1.4m height. This translates to potentially more shoulder and headroom for passengers in the Malibu. Both models comfortably seat five occupants.