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:
Showing 1 through 10 of 408.00-
Excellent - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By "WB9PAR" - December 18 - 10:00 amI compared this car to others in the same category. Nothing else in the price range could compare. Conservative styling yet sporty. Handles very well and is quite. Wind noise with windows down is an issue. So far excellant mileage (27.8 MPG) Electric steering is effortless and has good feedback.
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Great Car - 2007 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By Phil H - December 2 - 1:16 amBought it with 17,000 miles on it and have put another 60k on it. Great performer, 28-30 mpg in rural area, yet very peppy. Very versatile layout. Dont like rear skylights with curtains as the curtains sag since wont roll up tight. I also dont like the seats which are like a Saab with no lumbar support. Have only had to replace the outside mirror switch, but the fit and finish is only average.
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To good to be true - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By Herb - October 11 - 9:23 pmThe first 3 years the car was an absolute joy to drive.Then after 50,000 kilometers the third stop light failed. And now the transmission cable broke. The problem is that the dealer cannot find a replacement in North America. They even checked scrap yards to no avail. They contacted GM and were told the part wont be available till August. This is a 5 year old car with 78,000 kilometers, and parts are already hard to locate. The dealer is trying his best, but it seems GM does not care.
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A good car! - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By jeh0587 - August 25 - 1:56 pmI bought my Malibu Maxx used and I have had it for a little over a year now. It has done great in the winter and I love the power it has when I hit the gas. It is practical and all my friends want me to drive with it whenever we go out. Also with a cold air intake, the gas mileage and performance is a lot better then most cars.
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Something Different - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By d8933 - August 18 - 10:00 amAfter driving it for a week, the Maxx has proven once again that Chevy is trying to compete with other hatchbacks in the market. The drive is smooth and quiet. The comfort level is good and sound system is nice. Fuel economy is yet to be determined for me.
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I love this car! - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By Bob - August 15 - 3:33 pmThis car has proven to be reliable and capable performer. I average 23 mpg in town. My wife drives an X5 BMW and we take the Malibu Max on trips because on comfort, mileage and rear DVD player.I have had only one return to service for faulty rear deck supports. I am very happy with the build quality and performance of this car.
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Service Issues - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By WhatThe - August 12 - 10:00 amIt was all fun until... 3 Recalls, Power steering failure, issues with the Air Bags and 2 visits to dealerships while I was on vacation!! ARGH!
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Like this car alot - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By brbakery - April 5 - 10:00 amNicely designed, sporty, comfortable, very pleasant, and not big at all, but tons of room- and I have no love of cars- they are a necessary expense. Has great standard features I would never get if I had to pay extra. Nice dash, recommend getting power driver seat. Havent gone through my first tank of gas, so not sure about mileage. Hope its good in the snow. Got a great deal with the rebate. Was looking at: Vibes. Previously owned: geo prizms (no frills)
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OK, just OK - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By DKiD - March 7 - 11:40 amCar drives OK. Mileage is way down from listed numbers. I do like a lot of things about this car but mileage is not one of them.
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A very cute car! - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By ladygreeneyes - February 27 - 2:00 amLove the cars interior, comfortable, easy handling, visual ability...unfortunately the stats on fuel mileage by the manufacturer are not accurate...they state 22 city/30 hwy...Im getting 17+ to 19 Hwy. The dealer service is telling me I "have to break the car in...give it at least 1200 miles". I didnt have to "break" my Impala in...it was right on the money!
