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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  Its fun again - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By firstchevyguy - August 10 - 2:00 am

  Bought the LT loaded and its hard to believe this is a Chevy. With much research, I got more bang for the buck in this automobile than I could get with Mitsu, Nissan, Honda,VW or Chrysler. It is put together well, responsive (although no rubber burner) and comes with important safety features like the side air curtains.

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  Perfect fit - 2007 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By bobby g - August 8 - 11:23 am

  Very pleased and surpised about the handling and comfortable fit of the seats and placements of all of the controls. Felt like I had this car for years, even though my previous car was a large rear wheel drive, the Malibu took no time getting used to it.

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  I like it - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By SSCHMITT - August 4 - 10:00 am

  ITs a nice car for the money. It rides smooth and is peppy not fast but has enough power. Interior needs some work but overall I like it nice buy. I have 1055 miles on mine.

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  Hellava Ride from GM - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Bruce - June 5 - 3:40 am

  GM is finally starting to wake-up. Lots of planning went into this vehicle. Never had a car with remote start, heated seats before. Now dont think I would want to be without. Enjoy sitting in the back and watching a movie with her on a long trip.

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  just thought the Maxx would be more... - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By oct 2005 - May 4 - 5:30 pm

  Great acceleration w/the v-6 engine. Left with doubts about brakes and steering and the sub-standard braking. Had to replace rear brake pads @ 58000 miles. What A Pity!!! Then you have the interest with the intermediate steering arm assemblies that have given so much crap to those who have purchased the electric power steering groups.

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  Maxxed Out Mamma - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Sharon V. - May 1 - 8:26 pm

  Ive owned this car for two months now, and still cant wait to drive it every day. As a realtor, you couldnt ask for a better vehicle. Tons of back leg room and great cargo space that fits all my signs. People stare at the car all the time when Im driving it. Those who do approach me about it cant believe its a Malibu. I almost didnt test drive it because it was a Malibu. I really wanted the Impala SS. But after comparing everything, the Maxx SS won hands down. Drive this car before you make a decision to buy and youll be hooked too!

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  I love my 2004 MAXX - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By GypsieRose - April 30 - 4:13 am

  I had been driving Saabs for years before I bought this Maxx. I had also owned Mercedes, Corvette, Tahoe, Cadillac and Chryslers. This Maxx is the perfect car for me at 62. I am 4ft 8in tall and the adjustable pedals and steering wheel afforded me to drive for the first time in many years without a cushion and being forced up against the steering wheel. The mileage on freeway is avg 37mpg! Great handling. Kicks butt when you punch it to pass, cruises at 70 like a dream. I love the hatchback for hauling stuff. All are comfortable in seats/roomy. The price was affordable. Next time I will get leather heated seats. I love the lines. Not one hiccup yet! I love this car!

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  Oatmeal is good for you - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By GW in Maine - April 22 - 3:26 pm

  I am a 50 year old divorced white male. I require safety, reliability, versatility and economy (low cost of ownership) from a vehicle. I have grown to appreciate substance over style. My 06 Malibu Maxx did service as a rental car. There is an "every man" quality about it. Bland, in this case is a virtue. It is eminently competent without drawing too much attention to itself. I like the fact that ABS and traction control are standard. I like the radio controls and cruise control on the steering wheel. I like the hatch configuration and extra long wheel base. Chevy may not offer cutting edge technology, but this package works. Im OK with an appliance.

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  Must have bought a lemon - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Davidson C. - April 13 - 3:30 pm

  The day we pick up the car the factory remote starter doesnt work , then the sales men kills the battery try to get it work, then on the third day of owning this lemon (365 km on it ) the transmission starts to act up.(it wouldnt go into gear.) And now less then a month later the starter is acting up.

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  Lots of car for the money - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By George - March 26 - 11:00 am

  Feels, drives, and is equipped like a much more expensive car. Bought for wifey, she loves it too. Other car is an 06 Chrysler 300C, which of course I like even more, but this Maxx does not feel like too big a step down when I drive it, unlike the 02 Malibu we traded which was dependable but a noisy cheap ride. This is much more like it. The car was an absolute bargain. The current "Red Tag Sale" for 06 models is disguised rebate of $2500 to $3000 depending on region of US you live in. With GM credit card earnings of $2600, took home for under 15K, sticker was 22,700. Note of caution, about mid- model year, GM did not change invoice, but cut MSRP by 5%. Late 2006 MSRP closer to 21,700