2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC90 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,400 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo XC90 (185 HP) has 23 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. (162 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 230 kg more than 2012 Volvo XC90.
Because 2012 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Volvo XC90 (340 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. (159 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2012 Volvo XC90 has manual transmission. 2012 Volvo XC90 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Malibu | XC90 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 185 HP |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2385 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |
