Overview & Reviews

Like, um, seedless watermelon, the Chevrolet Malibu Maxx was the end result of selective, consumer-friendly design. Seedless watermelon was created because consumers love watermelon but hate spitting out seeds. Launched in model-year 2004, the midsize Malibu Maxx was created because many consumers like the utility of wagons but want the cooler look and style offered by sedans.

Most Recent Chevrolet Malibu Maxx

Hoping to avoid any potential stigma, Chevrolet describes the Malibu Maxx as a "five-door extended sedan." Built on a lengthened version of GM's Epsilon platform, the Maxx has a hatch-type rear door and a glass roof over the rear seat. And unlike the sedan that offers both four- and six-cylinder engines, the Maxx comes with V6 power only.

Its hatchback design makes loading the Chevy Malibu Maxx effortless. The rear cargo area has 22.8 cubic feet of space available (about 8 more than the average midsize sedan's trunk) and folding down the rear seats opens up 41 cubic feet. Further versatility is gained by rear seats that slide forward and back -- either side of the 60/40 setup will slide independently with a 7-inch range of adjustment. Other strengths include an agreeable ride and outstanding crash test scores.

All in all, the Chevrolet Malibu Maxx is a great choice if you're seeking utility at an affordable price -- provided you don't take issue with its drab looks and unremarkable handling. Those seeking brisker performance can choose the SS trim (launched in 2006), which comes with a more powerful engine.

Alas, the Malibu Maxx has not been a particularly popular offering for Chevy, and it was announced that the car would be discontinued after the 2007 model year. More information about the Malibu can be found here.

User Reviews:

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  Horrible Interior Quality - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Andre Garcia - March 13 - 12:30 pm

  Bought the car with 8K Miles, when the car reached 12K Miles door panels (door seams) started to turn yellow because of poor quality material used, dealership claims that this is normal wear. Multiple other problems, noises and ratles inside the car. Many of the problems are still there, GM customer service says they cant do anything since the dealer said its normal wear and tear. The car itself is good, but I will have to sell it soon, before the whole interios falls apart. Will never buy another Chevrolet, no wonder they are in such financial problems. Would not recomend this car to anyone.

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  Outstanding Value - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By prosdude - March 12 - 6:23 pm

  This car has it all; looks, performance and comfort. My girlfriend is especially prejudiced in favor of Japanese cars but within 5 minutes of taking the wheel of this beauty she was impressed. The electric steering is just plain great making the car very maneuverable in tight places. The adjustable pedals are another wonderful feature for a comfortable driving position. I think this car is the best value of any car on the market especially if you have a GM credit card that gives you 5% rebate towards the purchase of a new car. Mine was $19,200 out the door with sales tax and license.

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  My Chevy - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By D Kerlin - February 14 - 3:46 am

  The car has been very reliable on long trips and around town. We have experienced great gas mileage (34) on the highway and have been very satisfied with the ride. The interior is very well designed and all controls are placed well for the driver.

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  Maxx car for Mini price - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By maxxowner - February 2 - 2:00 am

  The Maxx is fun to drive. Its peppy, and the steering is sensitive, even though its front wheel drive. I got a lot of options for a relatively low sticker price. As for the interior, I like that almost everything in the driver’s space is adjustable, including the pedals. The leather seats are really soft and are texturized with little breathable holes that keep the leather from getting sticky and hot. I like the Maxxs unique design (built on Saab platform) and its safety features.

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  I really like this car! - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Melissa - January 25 - 9:10 am

  I was looking for a car that would give me flexibility and seating for five without being an SUV. I found it in this vehicle.

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  I love my Maxx - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By PJ - January 22 - 12:33 pm

  When taking the speed higher I feel like I am in a jet! The ride is very smooth on and off the freeway. When I first purchased my Maxx I was the only one in town who had one so I had a lot of curious stares and questions about it. I have nothing but great things to say. The first time I drove it in a test drive I fell in love with it and no other automobile I tested could match its comfort or smooth drive.

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  Love this car - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By SnowCat - January 21 - 2:10 pm

  My girlfriend at work had bought one, and after sitting in every single sedan on the market ever made for the 2002 model year with my Mother, I went down and bought one. I have not been dissapointed. I have a loaded LT. The cargo carring is great, road trips are not bad - NYC -> Chicago in a blizzard with 4 adults and one little white dog & loaded to the gills with luggage. Trip wasnt bad, and got 32MPG in all that. Wish it had a 5 speed & a better generation Traction control (Hubby has a 00 BMW 528, his is *nice*) but other than that - shes great.

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  I Want to Keep This Car Forever! - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By maxx_girl - January 14 - 11:33 am

  I have had many cars, new and used, from MBZs to several other GM cars, and although my MBZ 300 was a work horse, I have never had a car I love more than this. Reliable, attractive, lots of leg and head room, can fit tons of stuff into it, great mileage on the open road particularly, just a great car.

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  Malibu Maxx - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By GBahnUT - January 9 - 1:16 pm

  This vehicle is a nice design with many great features. The build quality is suspect since it has numerous rattles all over.

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  Back to my roots - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Glen S - January 4 - 6:56 pm

  Reluctant to purchase a domestic car after years of owning Toyotas. Couldnt pass up the incentives. Surprising so, its a much better car than I expected. It handles well, is quiet, a much better looking interior than the bland Toyotas, and its very versitle when it comes to hauling those Saturday morning purchases. Only time will tell if the quality has improved over my last Chevys, I sure hope so. But its still a good feeling to be back in Chevys, a good old USA product.