2010 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2010 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2010 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu (170 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (161 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Chevrolet Cruze (360 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Chevrolet Malibu. (214 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2010 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu | Cruze |
| Year Released | 2010 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2400 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Flex Fuel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4872 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1786 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2852 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 59 L |
