Inside, the 2015 Chevrolet Malibu offers an upscale experience, with soft-touch surfaces and high-quality materials. Passengers in both rows can enjoy plush cushions and long-term support. The available power driver seat gives even tall passengers the adjustments they need to find the perfect position behind the wheel. The trunk offers impressive space for this segment, with 16.3 cubic feet of space.

In terms of passenger space, the Ford Fusion is a close second. Drivers can expect good sight lines, especially in the front and sides. The Fusion also offers generous trunk space, with 16 cubic feet.

We like the 2015 Chevrolet Malibu’s impressive standard lineup and high-tech options. It also earned impressive crash scores. In government crash tests, the Malibu received a perfect five-star rating for overall protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the Malibu its top rating of “Good.” The standard OnStar telematics system works to protect passengers from unexpected situations with features like on-demand roadside assistance and automatic crash notification.

Like the Chevy Malibu, the Ford Fusion comes standard with items like antilock brakes and traction and stability control, designed to maximize on-road control. The Fusion’s standard Sync system can be paired with a cell phone to dial 9-1-1 after a crash. The standard MyKey technology lets Fusion owners set speed parameters for teenage drivers.

The 2015 Chevrolet Malibu effortlessly combines power with fuel efficiency. Its base engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that makes 196 horsepower and 191 pound-feet of torque. It comes with a start-stop system that turns the engine off when the Malibu stops in traffic, effectively saving fuel. On the road, it achieves 25 city/36 highway mpg. Drivers can also choose the available 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, which boosts the output to 259 horses and 295 pound-feet of torque. This powerful engine achieves a respectable 21/30 mpg.

The Ford Fusion doesn’t disappoint, either. Its base engine is a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder that produces 182 horses and 184 pound-feet of torque. Shoppers can also choose the turbo 1.5-liter four-cylinder for 181 horses and 185 pound-feet of torque. The Fusion achieves maximum power with the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, which makes 240 horses and 270 pound-feet of torque.

Inside, the 2015 Chevrolet Malibu delivers a wealth of convenience features. Upper trims feel closer to luxury vehicles than reasonably priced sedans. The standard OnStar system offers a 4G LTE Wi-Fi connection, transforming the Malibu into a mobile hotspot. Bluetooth phone connectivity lets drivers make hands-free calls. The available MyLink system treats users to a variety of apps via a 7-inch touchscreen.

The Ford Fusion also introduces some high-tech equipment. The available voice-activated Sync system lets drivers alter infotainment settings without looking away from the road. The MyFord Touch infotainment system is accessible via an 8-inch touchscreen.