Used 2021 Chevrolet Malibu for SaleNationwide

Compare 2021 Chevrolet Malibu Trims

The 2021 Chevrolet Malibu offers a range of trims from budget-friendly options to fully loaded models, all with impressive fuel efficiency.

• Starting at $14,062
• 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 the most budget-friendly option in the lineup.

• Avg. market price: $14,062 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 29 city / 36 hwy
• Inventory: 1,407 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View LS FWD listings

LS Fleet FWD — "Who It's For"

The LS Fleet FWD is ideal for those seeking a standard trim with solid features at a competitive price. It balances value and functionality well.

• Avg. market price: $14,839 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 29 city / 36 hwy
• Inventory: 999 listings
• View LS Fleet FWD listings

RS FWD — "Who It's For"

The RS FWD is for shoppers who want a stylish trim with added features without stepping up to the higher-priced models. It offers a nice blend of style and functionality.

• Avg. market price: $16,313 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 29 city / 36 hwy
• Inventory: 828 listings
• View RS FWD listings

LT FWD — "Who It's For"

The LT FWD is the pick for shoppers who want a well-rounded vehicle with great features and comfort. It's the most popular trim in the lineup.

• Avg. market price: $14,130 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 29 city / 36 hwy
• Inventory: 2,594 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 vehicle with premium features and performance. It offers the most luxury in the Malibu lineup.

• Avg. market price: $17,839 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 22 city / 33 hwy
• Inventory: 267 listings
• View Premier FWD listings

Trim Recommendations

Most Popular — LT FWD

With 2,594 active listings, the LT FWD is the clear volume leader in the lineup.

Browse LT FWD listings

Best Budget Option — LS FWD

At $14,062 avg market price — below the lineup median of $14,839 — it's the most accessible entry point.

Browse LS FWD listings

Best for Fuel Economy — LS FWD

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

Browse LS FWD listings

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from October 1, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.

How much does the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu cost?

Prices have softened 6.81% compared to this time last year, making it a favorable time to shop this model year.

There are 2,550 listings available, which suggests you should have a reasonable amount of inventory to compare.

Is the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu a good car?

Yes — 4.5/5 is a strong user rating for a used midsize sedan, and the 2021 Malibu backs that up with a roomy cabin, a more open-feeling back seat, and a more sophisticated overall feel than the car it replaced. It also gives you a broad spread of trims and powertrains, including a hybrid, so you have more flexibility than many rivals in the segment. For you, that means the Malibu makes the most sense if you want a practical, value-oriented sedan with easy-to-live-with features and a comfortable interior. 29.1% 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 2021 Malibu’s appeal is strengthened by its strong reliability reputation relative to earlier front-drive Malibus, along with its comfortable cabin and easy-to-use features. It is not the most refined car in its class, but it remains a practical choice for buyers who want a large sedan that is generally inexpensive to own and easy to live with. For used buyers, that points to manageable long-term ownership risk if you choose a well-kept example and stay on top of routine maintenance.

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

At 63.1% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.

You should start with a vehicle history report and confirm whether any prior damage was repaired properly. Then prioritize a pre-purchase inspection, especially if the car has higher mileage or incomplete service records. Focus your condition check on bodywork consistency, tire wear, interior wear, and how smoothly the transmission and turbocharged engine behave in everyday driving.

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 still move quickly on the right car.

• Deal availability: 29.1% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• Inventory: There are 2,550 listings available.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 6.81% compared with last year.
• Clean inventory: 63.1% of listings are accident-free.

If you find a listing below $14,425, 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 $14,655 sits slightly below last year's $15,726.

That price movement suggests the Malibu has already absorbed some depreciation, which can help you if you buy at the right number and hold the car for a few years. Because the market is still pricing it below where it was a year ago, future resale value will depend heavily on condition, mileage, and whether you buy near the lower end of the range. A clean, well-maintained example should be easier to move later than one with accident history or visible wear.

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:

• 29.1% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• At 63.1% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 6.81% 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 solid user rating and a market that still offers some deal opportunities. If you are especially price-sensitive, you may want to compare nearby years and focus on whichever one gives you the cleanest history and best condition at the lowest out-the-door price.

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 29, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.