With its sleek and sophisticated new styling, Chevrolet’s all-new midsize Malibu sedan brings a bit of European flair to the all-American automaker’s line-up.
There are four trim levels available, ranging from the entry-level LS to the top-of-the-line LTZ. Powertrain options include a 169-horsepower, 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder and a 252-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6. The four-cylinder is offered with a choice of four-speed or new six-speed automatic transmissions, while the V-6 comes only comes mated to the six-speed automatic.
Not surprisingly the V-6-powered Malibu we drove had a good bit more oomph, but it’s the four-cylinder/six-speed automatic combination that really won us over with its decent performance and impressive fuel economy numbers. The car’s fully-independent suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, but still manages to deliver decent handling in everyday driving.
Inside the Malibu’s upscale interior design is just as attractive as its exterior styling, especially when it’s dressed up with the two-tone materials used in LTZ models. There’s also plenty of room for adults up front, though the back seats are a little tight for grown-ups. Out back is a large trunk that’s made more useful with the addition of split-folding rear seatbacks.
Taken together, we think the new Malibu combines the practicality you’d expect in an affordable family sedan with something relatively unexpected in an American car: European style.
Strengths:
Upscale looks with a modest price tag
Four-cylinder/six-speed automatic powertrain nearly as fuel-efficient as pricier Hybrid model
Comfortable ride quality
Weaknesses:
Noisy power steering with an occasional stiff feel
Rear seat a tight fit for six-footers
Bottom Line:
With this world-class car, Chevy is once again a player in the family sedan market.
Power sunroof|Engine block heater|Power-adjustable driver��s seat|Power-adjustable pedals|Rear window sunshade|Remote start|110-volt AC power outlet|Premium audio system with 8 speakers|Six-disc CD changer|Auxiliary audio input jack
Safety features
/*Antilock Brakes:*/|Standard|/*Electronic Stability Control:*/|Standard on some; Not available on others|/*Traction Control:*/|Standard|/*Multi-Stage Front Airbags:/|Standard|/*Side-Impact Airbags:*/|Standard|/*Side-Curtain Airbags:*/|Standard|/*Active Front Head Restraints:*/|Not Available|/*Tire Pressure Monitor:*/|Standard
Standard features
/*LS:*/|16-inch styled-steel wheels|2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine|Four-speed automatic transmission|Halogen auto-on/off headlights|Daytime running lights|Power-adjustable outside mirrors|Variable intermittent windshield wipers|Rear window defogger|Air conditioning|Cloth upholstery|Power height-adjustable driver seat|60/40 split-folding rear seats|Keyless entry|Cruise control|Power windows|Power door locks|Tilt/telescoping steering wheel|AM/FM/CD stereo with 6 speakers|XM® satellite radio|OnStar® with one-year "Directions & Connections" plan|/*Hybrid adds:*/|16-inch alloy wheels|2.4-liter gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain|/*1LT adds:*/|17-inch chrome styled-steel wheels|Electronic stability control|Power-adjustable body color outside mirrors|Chrome exhaust tip|Carpeted floor mats|Steering-wheel mounted audio controls|/*2LT adds:*/|17-inch alloy|Power-adjustable driver's seat|Power-adjustable pedals|Auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass|Universal garage door opener|Leather-wrapped steering wheel/shift knob|Illuminated vanity mirrors|Remote start|/*LTZ adds:*/|18-inch alloy|3.6-liter inline V-6 engine|Six-speed automatic transmission|Front fog lights|Power-adjustable, heated outside mirrors|Driver's-side auto-dimming outside mirror|LED taillights|Dual chrome exhaust tips|Automatic climate control|Two-tone leather upholstery|Heated front seats|Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters|Trunk mat/cargo net|Premium audio system with 8 speakers|Six-disc CD changer|Auxiliary audio input jack
Warranty
/*Bumper to bumper:*/|3 years/36,000 miles|/*Powertrain:*/|5 years/100,000 miles|/*Corrosion:*/|6 years/100,000 miles|/*Roadside Assistance:*/|5 years/100,000 miles
