How much does the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu cost?

Prices have softened 7.85% compared to this time last year, making it a favorable time to shop this model year.

There are 2,597 listings available, which suggests solid inventory for comparison shopping.

If you find a listing below $14,425.08, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.

Is the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu a good car?

Yes — the 4.5/5 user rating points to strong owner satisfaction for this model year.

The 2021 Malibu is a roomy, value-oriented midsize sedan with a modern feel, thanks to the Malibu’s 2016 redesign. You get sleeker styling, a longer wheelbase, and a more open-feeling back seat, along with a broad range of powertrains and technology that make it appealing if you want a practical family car without moving up to a larger vehicle.

Its appeal is strongest if you want easy-to-live-with space, straightforward features, and a sedan that feels more sophisticated than the Malibu it replaced. 23.8% of listings are priced as good or great deals, which gives you some room to shop selectively.

Is the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu reliable?

Owners rate it 4.5/5, a strong signal of long-term satisfaction.

The 2021 Malibu’s reliability reputation is a key part of its appeal within the front-wheel-drive Malibu family. This generation has the best reliability record of the group, and it generates far fewer owner complaints than earlier Malibus.

For used buyers, that means the model has a favorable long-term ownership profile, though you should still pay close attention to maintenance history and overall condition before you commit.

What should I look for when buying a used 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?

At 62.7% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.

You should start with a vehicle history report so you can separate clean examples from cars with accident or title issues. After that, prioritize a pre-purchase inspection, especially if the car has higher mileage or incomplete service records.

Focus your condition check on bodywork, panel alignment, tire wear, brakes, and any signs that the car has been repaired after a collision. Because the Malibu’s standard engine was criticized for lackluster acceleration, a test drive should also confirm that the powertrain feels smooth and consistent rather than strained.

Is now a good time to buy a used 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?

This looks like a moderate market where selective buyers can still find value if they shop carefully.

• Deal availability: 23.8% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• Inventory: There are 2,597 listings available.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 7.85% compared with last year.
• Clean inventory: 62.7% of listings are accident-free.

If you find a listing below $14,425.08, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.

What is the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu's resale value?

The current average of $14,802 sits slightly below last year's $16,063.

That softer pricing can help you buy more affordably now, but it also means future resale gains may be more limited unless you choose a well-kept example. If you plan to sell later, condition and documentation matter more when the market is already pricing the model below its prior-year level.

Vehicles with strong owner satisfaction ratings, like this model year's 4.5/5, tend to retain buyer demand, which supports resale value over time.

Should I buy a 2021 Chevrolet Malibu or consider a different year?

If you're weighing the 2021 against nearby model years, here's how to think about it:

Choose the 2021 if:

• 23.8% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• At 62.7% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 7.85% compared with last year.
• Owners rate it 4.5/5 — a strong satisfaction signal.

The bottom line:

The 2021 Malibu is the right pick if you want a roomy, value-focused midsize sedan with a modern cabin feel and a strong reliability reputation. If you’re especially price-sensitive, a nearby model year may be worth comparing, but the 2021 stands out as a balanced choice when you want a practical used sedan with broad inventory and meaningful deal availability.

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from August 28, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.