Chevrolet Updates Cruze, Malibu and Spark for 2019

Chevrolet has given three of its passenger cars modest updates for the 2019 model year, with the subcompact Spark, compact Cruze and mid-size Malibu all seeing cosmetic changes along with feature updates.

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We’ll start with what’s changed on the smallest of the three, the Spark, which gets new front-end styling with a bit more chrome in the grille. Also newly available is a Low Speed Forward Automatic Braking system, which joins forward collision alerts and lane departure warnings in the Spark’s safety portfolio. It also offers Android Auto and Apple CarPlay standard as part of the infotainment system. (For more information about the Chevrolet Spark, check out our research section by following this link.)

The compact Cruze also gets a new grille and front fascia, and Premier models add dual-element taillights with LED accents. There are also new wheel designs, and sporty RS models feature black window moldings, black Bow-Tie logos and 17- or 18-inch wheels. All Cruze models also get the new Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system on a standard 7-inch touchscreen. Remote start and automatic climate control are standard on LT and Premier models. Chevrolet has also introduced the Hatch LS trim for the Cruze, which will become the most affordable version of the hatchback; previously, those who wanted the hatch had to jump up to an LT model, which started at over $4,000 more than the base models of the sedan, so the LS should help bridge that gap.

Finally, there is the 2019 Malibu, which gets the most extensive updates of the three, starting with a new RS trim level that comes with plenty of blacked-out trim pieces, including a black sport grille and black Bow-Tie logos. The RS, which Chevrolet says will start around $25,000, also adds a rear spoiler, 18-inch wheels and a dual-outlet exhaust system.

Beyond the RS, all models get new front and rear styling with a new front fascia and grille, along with new dual-element taillights (LED on LT and Premier models). Inside, an 8-inch touchscreen is standard across all of the Malibu’s trim levels and, like the Cruze, will feature the new Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system. Additionally, a new continuously variable automatic transmission will come standard on models with the turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine.

Chevrolet says the 2019 Malibu will go on sale in the fall, while the 2019 Cruze and 2019 Spark got a much less specific on-sale date of “later this year.”

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