Updated 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Adds RS Trim

Chevrolet is updating the Malibu for 2019 with a new design and a new RS trim.

The sedan gets a revised front fascia, new headlights, and redesigned upper and lower grilles. At the rear, there is a new valance, repositioned dual-exhaust outlets, and redesigned taillights. LED daytime running lights and LED taillights are an available option.

The addition of the RS trim to the Malibu makes it the fifth model in the automaker’s lineup to wear the badge. Visual enhancements include 18-inch machined wheels, black bowtie emblems, a black sport grille, rear spoiler, and dual-outlet exhaust. Inside, there’s a leather-wrapped steering wheel, black cloth seats, and an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen, which runs the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system.

Under the hood, the two powertrain choices are unchanged from the 2018 model year. Customers can choose between a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine making 163 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque or a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 250 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. The larger engine is only available in the Malibu Premier, which comes with a nine-speed automatic transmission.

Chevrolet says the starting price will be around $25,000, which will undercut some competitors like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Expect a final price closer to the 2019 Malibu's launch later this fall.