Differences Between 2018 Chevrolet Malibu & 2018 Ford Fusion

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The current Chevrolet Malibu scarcely resembles the model bearing this name just a few years ago. A stylish, rather sporty appearance, a boatload of high-tech features, and plenty of package upgrade options make this a standout in the mid-size sedan class. It's not a performance vehicle by any stretch of the imagination, but that's not what family sedans are meant to be in the first place. For 2018, the Malibu is available in a total of four trims, and all but the base model can be further customized.

Similar in design, the 2018 Ford Fusion certainly has its loyal following, but many will be disappointed in the bare-bones base trim. The price hikes aren't nominal when the uplevel trims are considered. For the price paid, the Chevy Malibu comes out a bit ahead in the areas of mid-trim features, passenger comfort, and affordability of package options. Let’s see how these vehicles compare.

Mid-Trim Features

Most buyers will be intrigued by the LS trim, a version that costs only slightly more than the base model but comes with a huge number of feature upgrades and additions. This trim boasts 16-inch aluminum wheels, a rearview camera, laminated side windows, and the Chevy MyLink infotainment system with a 7-inch screen display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone app integration are included as is 4G LTE connectivity and a Wi-Fi hotspot. For just a bit more out-of-pocket, the 1LT trim adds on 17-inch wheels, an eight-way power driver's seat, heated mirrors, and satellite radio. The 2018 Ford Fusion base trim is rather sparse in terms of standard features, but buyers will have to pay quite a bit more for the uplevel SE version. Basically, all this trim adds on is the power driver's seat and satellite radio.

Interior and Comfort

Chevrolet put in a lot of thought when redesigning the interior of the Malibu. The rear roofline still slopes down rather sharply, but there's plenty of headroom in the rear seating area. The dashboard design is uncluttered, and every control is easy to find and reach. The front seats are spacious and situated at the perfect default height. The front doors are huge, making for easy entry for the driver and front passenger. The materials quality is on par with other models in this segment, and the hard plastics up front are nicely textured. The 2018 Ford Fusion has a rather roomy interior, but automatic climate control isn't available on the base trim. Some of the control buttons are very small and difficult to operate. The Fusion also suffers from an enormous rear blind spot.

Affordable Package Upgrades

The Malibu 1LT trim is eligible for a couple of exciting package options. The Convenience and Technology package includes an auto-dimming rearview mirror, charging pad, an upgraded screen interface, navigation, and remote vehicle start. The Leather package adds on leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a nine-speaker Bose stereo system. There's also the new Redline Edition package. This package features blacked-out 19-inch wheels along with red and black trim pieces that replace the standard chrome. The 2018 Ford Fusion SE trim can be purchased with the Luxury or Technology package, but they are expensive and are standard on the Titanium trim anyway. The Driver Assist package, the only way to get all of the safety systems, is one of the most expensive add-ons in this vehicle segment.

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Check out the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu today at Jeff Wyler Chevrolet. Priced to sell and loaded with all the desirable features, this model is a solid buy. Call ahead to schedule your personal inspection and test drive.