Used 2021 Chevrolet Malibu for Sale nearChicago, IL

Compare 2021 Chevrolet Malibu Trims in Chicago, IL

The 2021 Chevrolet Malibu offers a range of trims from budget-friendly options to fully loaded models, all featuring efficient FWD performance.

• Starting at $12,330
• Best MPG/MPGe: 29 city / 36 hwy
• Most Popular: LT FWD

Trim Overview

Prices updated weekly from CarGurus listings.

Quick Compare Table

Listing prices sourced from CarGurus — updated weekly. OEM specs from manufacturer data.

Missing data displayed as "—".

Trim Deep Dives

LS FWD — "Who It's For"

The LS FWD is the pick for shoppers who want essential features without paying for extras. It's a great value option.

• Avg. market price: $13,061 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 29 city / 36 hwy
• Inventory: 75 listings
• View LS FWD listings

LS Fleet FWD — "Who It's For"

The LS Fleet FWD is the pick for shoppers who want a standard trim with added comfort features without breaking the bank.

• Avg. market price: $12,330 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 29 city / 36 hwy
• Inventory: 28 listings
• View LS Fleet FWD listings

RS FWD — "Who It's For"

The RS FWD is the pick for shoppers who want a stylish sedan with tech upgrades without stepping up to a higher price point.

• Avg. market price: $15,320 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 29 city / 36 hwy
• Inventory: 36 listings
• View RS FWD listings

LT FWD — "Who It's For"

The LT FWD is the pick for shoppers who want a well-rounded sedan with great features without going for the top trim.

• Avg. market price: $12,377 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 29 city / 36 hwy
• Inventory: 108 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View LT FWD listings

Premier FWD — "Who It's For"

The Premier FWD is the pick for shoppers who want a fully loaded sedan with luxury features without compromising on performance.

• Avg. market price: $13,061 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 22 city / 33 hwy
• Inventory: 10 listings — lower availability; may limit negotiating room
• View Premier FWD listings

Trim Recommendations

Most Popular — LT FWD

With 108 active listings, the LT FWD is the clear volume leader in the lineup.

Browse LT FWD listings

Best Budget Option — LS Fleet FWD

At $12,330 avg market price — below the lineup median of $13,061 — it's the most accessible entry point.

Browse LS Fleet FWD listings

Best for Fuel Economy — LS FWD

The LS FWD offers the best fuel efficiency in the lineup with 29/36 MPG.

Browse LS FWD listings

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from November 12, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.

How much does the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu cost?

Prices have softened 6.60% compared to this time last year, making it a favorable time to shop this model year.

There are 2,411 listings available, which suggests solid inventory for comparison shopping.

Is the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu a good car?

Yes — the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu earns a 4.5/5 user rating, which supports its appeal as a roomy, value-oriented midsize sedan. The overview points to a practical family-car formula: a spacious back seat, easy-to-use technology, and a broad mix of available features for the class. It also emphasizes that the Malibu is a straightforward sedan that does the basics well, especially for shoppers who want comfort and value without a premium price tag. There are 31.6% of listings priced as good or great deals, which gives you some room to shop selectively.

Is the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu reliable?

Owners rate it 4.5/5, a strong signal of long-term satisfaction.

The overview describes this Malibu as one of the better-regarded front-wheel-drive versions of the nameplate for reliability, which is a meaningful point if you plan to keep the car for several years. That said, you should still expect normal used-car wear and verify maintenance history before you buy. For long-term ownership, the main risk is less about the model’s basic reputation and more about how well a specific example was maintained.

What should I look for when buying a used 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?

At 58.8% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.

You should run a vehicle history report and confirm whether any reported damage was minor or structural. Put inspection priority on body panels, paint match, tire wear, suspension feel, and any warning lights or electronic glitches. Because this model is meant to be a practical daily driver, condition and maintenance records matter more than chasing the lowest sticker price.

Is now a good time to buy a used 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?

This looks like a moderate, selective buyer’s market, so you can shop patiently but should move quickly on the best examples.

• Deal availability: 31.6% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• Inventory: There are 2,411 listings available.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 6.60% compared with last year.
• Clean inventory: 58.8% of listings are accident-free.

If you find a listing below $14,293, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.

What is the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu's resale value?

The current average of $14,293 sits slightly below last year's $15,303.

That price movement suggests the Malibu has softened enough to help buyers today, but it also means future sellers may need to price competitively to stand out. If you buy well now and keep the car in good condition, you may be better positioned to limit depreciation later. The model’s value-oriented reputation should help it remain appealing to budget-minded shoppers.

Vehicles with strong owner satisfaction ratings, like this model year's 4.5/5, tend to retain buyer demand, which supports resale value over time.

Should I buy a 2021 Chevrolet Malibu or consider a different year?

If you're weighing the 2021 against nearby model years, here's how to think about it:

Choose the 2021 if:

• 31.6% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• At 58.8% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 6.60% compared with last year.
• Owners rate it 4.5/5 — a strong satisfaction signal.

The bottom line: The 2021 Malibu is the right pick if you want a roomy, value-focused midsize sedan with a strong ownership reputation and you can find a clean example at a fair price. If you are especially price-sensitive, a nearby model year may be worth comparing, but the 2021 stands out as a sensible buy when condition and history check out.

How does the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu compare to the 2021 Toyota Camry?

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from November 10, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.