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:

• 

  Disappointing - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Bill - December 22 - 5:06 pm

  Bought after 2005 models introduced and got an excellent price. Loved it for the 1st couple of years until things started to fail. CD player failed on way home from the dealership. Replaced, but failed again in 2 years. Power steering and drivers seat frame failed. Although same steering failures covered under extended warranty for some VINs, Chevy made us pay for more than half of cost. Rear seat reclining levers broke, fuse problems, both remote controls broke.

• 

  Its like riding in a limo - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Robs Place - September 4 - 8:06 am

  Sometimes my 6yr. old and I sit in the back of our Maxx with the seats fully stretched and watch movies while my wife becomes the limo driver. The skylight in the back really adds to the overall ambience. Its never been so much fun being a passenger. I recommend this car wholeheartedly.

• 

  Just bought her- luv her to death - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By jeffmiller - August 17 - 2:16 am

  So far, I am thrilled to have this vehicle. The positives are too numerous to mention all, but overall- performance in drivability, comfort, stereo, seating, utility all are an A= for this style & class.

• 

  Value Received - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Harry J. - May 24 - 1:46 pm

  Well pleased with car, but still think that seats are lackluster in appearnce. GM Division could really have done better. Rear sunroof shade can only be called what it is - cheap plastic that doesnt work. Center console storage needs a stronger hinge to prevent wobble when opening and closing. Head restraints (for some reason) tilt forward at a strange angle. I might try turning them around! Rearview mirror hard to flip for bright lights.

• 

  my first maxx - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By blueoleander - February 24 - 8:06 pm

  I bought a 2006 maxx ss model BRAND NEW in sept. 2009. For all you maxx lovers there is one more left, brand new in silver, ss model with dvd player, onstar and 2 sunroofs. Anyway, smooth quiet ride, lots of power, nice interior, awesome AC, lots of features. I like the adjustable gas/brake pedals, you can move them closer to you with push of button!

• 

  Best car Ive ever owned - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Larry - February 8 - 7:20 pm

  Im 78 an owned many cars in my lifetime. This is the best handling car ever. I love the tracking, all the mechanical and innovative features, especially the remote start in the winter and in the summer. It heats the car quickly in wintertime and cools it down in the hot summer days as well. The wide opening doors were helpful in the back to assist my wife (who had alzheimers) to get in the car. Just a great car!

• 

  We like it! - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By CPTBK124 - January 9 - 10:00 am

  We traded our 2003 Ford Expedition for the Maxx for better fuel mileage. After driving the Maxx for almost 12,000 miles; our family enjoys the ride, comfort and most importantly the fuel economy. We still miss the Expedition, but we are reminded we made the right choice when we are at the pump.

• 

  owner - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By lichtenfels - December 14 - 2:00 am

  I like the vehicle, took it for 1st ride today and found the headrest bothers me, I must hold my head at an unnatural angle. Drivers seat hard to get adjusted and not sure I like the limited manuerability of the steering wheel. Buick had more up & down positions avail. Other than those things, handles great and nice ride. Like the idea of tilting back seats & adj. offered in back.

• 

  love my new Maxx - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By cwesleyg - October 26 - 11:50 am

  Mine is a black LT with sunroof. It only has 191 miles on it as of yet but I love this car. The only negative I can see is the electric assist steering takes a little getting used to. It is kind of twitchy compared to hydraulic assist, but it saves HP not having the drain of running the pump. I really enjoy the manual shift on this automatic transmission ... much fun!

• 

  Very good car in a dull package. - 2007 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By paul_jacob - October 7 - 9:18 am

  I got this car out of necessity for a reliable, practical, and efficient car. It fits this build very well. The Maxx draws only a few looks from its exterior, but to some, it is a rather good looking car (remember, were not shopping for a coupe here). The interior is a bit bland, although everything is easy to use and functional. Interior quality will rival most competitors and is a big step up from the previous generation. Front seats are very comfortable although a bit flat, and rear leg room will beat much larger cars. Im getting 30 mpg with about 80/20 highway/city. Driver feedback is minimal and leaves a lot to be desired. The 5 speed transmission is very good.