4 Star Reviews for Chevrolet Malibu Maxx

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.53/5 Average
408 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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 11 through 20 of 408.00
  • Im back after 23 years - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
    By -

    This is the first Chevy I bought since my 1982 Z28. The fact that its been that long tells you what I thought about Chevys "quality." Over the last 3 months Ive looked at the Mazda3, Audi A4, Subaru Outback, Baja, and Impreza, Mitsubishi Outlander, PT Cruiser, and the Saab 92x. All nice vehicles in their own right, but with all the rebates thrown at you it makes the Maxx the best value. I like the versatility. Most of the time Im the only one in the car, but at times I need to haul 4 more around. This car does that comfortably, plus I can get my bike in the back. The bells and whistles for the money are great. The back seat room was a big factor, and there is a ton of it.

  • A nice suprise from Chevrolet - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
    By -

    I had honestly not heard of this car until I visited the dealership. I had come in for an Impala and drove away with the Maxx! I liked it instantly, and test drove alot of cars. I was looking at the Ford Fusion for the same price, but the Maxx offered a standard V6, ABS, and a remote starter for less, and drove better! You truly get a lot for your money.

  • A big guy in it - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
    By -

    We have had this car for over a year now. The dealership has always treated us right weve have had a few problems, but you can count on that for a new model in the 1st year. Down to the bottom line, would I make the same purchage again? Now I love my truck and I brought this for the wife to commute [174 miles a day]. The anwser is YES. Just wish the inside had a little bit more higher end plastics.Things pop off at times w/ no problems poping them back on. By the way Im 62" 285lbs and I fit in this w/ no problem.

  • Love This Car - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
    By -

    Am a "mature" woman & love the sporty look. People are always asking "what car is that?" Handles well and have taken several short trips (300miles) and me & a passenger have been comfortable. Love the hatchback-lots of room and easy to load & unload. Headrests are a bother-rearview obstructed-will try switching with back ones as someone has suggested. Fold down rear & passenger seat a plus. My son & daughter even enjoy driving it!

  • Maxx LT is awesome - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
    By -

    A very fun and fast car. The console makes the front tight but the leg room is great in the front and back.

  • Great Vehicle - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
    By -

    Why arent there more on the road? This car offers you everything for a reasonable price. I have the top of the line LT and can not think of an option that I still would want; heated seats, tilt & telescoping steering wheel, remote start (which I can never live without again!) power moonroof, etc. It has plenty of pep and handles and rides great. It has enough cargo room to move a student to college. The only gripes are the intrusive "A" pillars and lousy OEM tires and brake rotors. Other than that, people are missing out on the Maxx revolution!

  • Better than I expected - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
    By -

    Having owned Volvos for ages, I was a little apprehensive about buying a Chevy but I couldnt turn down the deal I got as a GM supplier. The Maxx is a good, solid car. Yeah, some of the interior materials are a little basic and you can tell where they saved a few bucks, but it gets the job done. I love having a hatchback. Really handy. You can put a LOT of cargo in this car.

  • Bought new off the lot - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
    By -

    The Maxx is a comfortable and smooth ride. It handles well in-town and quietly on the road. All of the controls are conveniently located. The 60/40 back seats fold down for much needed extra room. However, the markings for the radio buttons, power windows & locks and power side mirrors deteriorated quickly with use. We have had several bouts of electrical problems causing 2-3 week stays at the dealership while they tried to figure them out. Power locks are sluggish. Cloth interiors show stains and wear easily even with dealership treatment and cleaning. The back seat levers broke within 2 years but there were no further problems once replaced. Fuel line needed repair in 2008, too.

  • Beths Mal Maxx 2004 - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
    By -

    Overall, pretty happy with the car...low payments for a reliable car that has great get up and go.

  • Must have stood in the lemon line - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
    By -

    I love the style, handling, and fuel mileage[30.9] but Ive had nothing but trouble with it. Pedals wouldnt move up or down. Fuel cap light on. Transmission chain adjusted? Rear hatch release didnt have safety pull on it and latch wouldnt release. Some type of poping noise when making slow turns. And now with 111,816 miles on it, the transmission has failed. If you are wondering I take care of my stuff so no jackrabbit starts or pulling/pushing with this car.

Chevrolet Malibu Maxx Reviews By Year:
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