2011 Toyota Highlander vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Toyota Highlander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Toyota Highlander would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Toyota Highlander (280 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. (252 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 2011 Toyota Highlander is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Toyota Highlander 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Toyota Highlander | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Toyota | Chevrolet |
| Model | Highlander | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Front |
| Transmission Type | CVT | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4796 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2789 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.4 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
