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 with impressive fuel efficiency.

• Starting at $12,790
• 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 a well-equipped sedan without breaking the bank. It's the best value option in the lineup.

• Avg. market price: $12,968 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 29 city / 36 hwy
• Inventory: 138 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View LS FWD listings

LS Fleet FWD — "Who It's For"

The LS Fleet FWD is the choice for those seeking a standard trim with solid features and a reliable performance. It's a practical option for fleet buyers.

• Avg. market price: $16,395 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 29 city / 36 hwy
• Inventory: 95 listings
• View LS Fleet FWD listings

RS FWD — "Who It's For"

The RS FWD is ideal for shoppers who want a stylish sedan with modern tech features without stepping up to a higher price point.

• Avg. market price: $16,297 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 29 city / 36 hwy
• Inventory: 87 listings
• View RS FWD listings

LT FWD — "Who It's For"

The LT FWD is the pick for shoppers who want a blend of features and affordability without sacrificing comfort. It's the most popular trim in the lineup.

• Avg. market price: $12,790 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 29 city / 36 hwy
• Inventory: 231 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View LT FWD listings

Premier FWD — "Who It's For"

The Premier FWD is for those who desire a fully loaded sedan with luxury features and a powerful engine. It's the top-tier option for discerning buyers.

• Avg. market price: $13,717 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 22 city / 33 hwy
• Inventory: 32 listings
• View Premier FWD listings

Trim Recommendations

Most Popular — LT FWD

With 231 active listings, the LT FWD is the clear volume leader in the lineup.

Browse LT FWD listings

Best Budget Option — LT FWD

At $12,790 avg market price — below the lineup median of $13,717 — it's the most accessible entry point.

Browse LT FWD listings

Best for Fuel Economy — LS FWD

The LS FWD offers excellent fuel efficiency at 29/36 MPG, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious drivers.

Browse LS FWD listings

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

How much does the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu cost?

Prices have softened 6.70% compared to this time last year, making it a favorable time to shop this model year.

There are 2,597 listings available, which gives you a solid amount of inventory to compare before you buy.

Is the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu a good car?

Yes — 4.5/5 is a strong user rating for this model year, and the Malibu’s appeal comes from its roomy midsize-sedan packaging, larger and more open-feeling back seat, and generally strong value for the money. It also offers a broad spread of trims and powertrains, including a hybrid, so you have more choice than many rivals in the segment. For shoppers who want a practical, well-equipped sedan that is generally inexpensive to own and easy to live with, this Malibu fits that use case well. 27.9% of listings are 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 Malibu’s reliability reputation is described as stronger than earlier front-drive versions, which is encouraging if you want a used sedan with a more reassuring ownership profile. Its comfortable cabin and easy-to-use features also support a low-stress daily driving experience. For used buyers, the main long-term ownership risk is making sure you choose a well-kept example, since condition and maintenance history will matter more than the badge alone.

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

At 63.5% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.

You should run a vehicle history report before you commit, then prioritize a pre-purchase inspection so you can confirm the car’s structural and mechanical condition. Focus on signs of prior bodywork, uneven panel gaps, tire wear, and any evidence that the car has been repaired after a collision. Because this model is meant to be a practical daily driver, condition and maintenance records should carry a lot of weight in your decision.

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 and still find worthwhile listings.

• Deal availability: 27.9% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• Inventory: There are 2,597 listings available.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 6.70% compared with last year.
• Clean inventory: 63.5% of listings are accident-free.

If you find a listing below $14,423, 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 $14,794 sits slightly below last year's $15,856.

That price movement suggests the Malibu has already absorbed some depreciation, which can help if you buy now and plan to sell later. A lower entry price can reduce your future loss in dollar terms, especially if you choose a clean, well-maintained example. The model’s value-oriented reputation should also help it remain appealing to budget-minded shoppers over time.

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:

• 27.9% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• At 63.5% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 6.70% compared with last year.
• Owners rate it 4.5/5 — a strong satisfaction signal.

The bottom line:

The 2021 Malibu is the better pick if you want a roomy, value-focused midsize sedan with a strong user rating and a market that still offers some deal potential. If you are especially price-sensitive, you can also compare nearby years to see whether a cleaner or cheaper example gives you a better overall buy, but the 2021 remains a sensible primary target if you want the best balance of value, inventory, and buyer appeal.

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 11, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.