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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  Malibu Maxx-- GOOD! - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Fulloutpwr - August 17 - 1:00 am

  So far, no real regrets or gripes! Starts everytime I need it, gets me 29 MPG average... needs tint and thats about it from the factory. Wont have it more than the next year, but so far very satisfied!

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  The best car Ive ever had! - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Lisa - July 19 - 2:16 am

  After always buying the Euro imports, I almost died when I bought this car! Our first Chevy! But I saw it in a lot and immediately was drawn to it. For the cost of what we paid and for what weve got, were very happy. Its a great family car.

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  It works well - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By yasth - May 9 - 11:23 pm

  Rather nice car really, there are some glaring if rarely dealt with design problems (the rear sunscreen system is scary, as are a few areas fingers rarely go. Lots of pickup all things considered, if you floor it you will find all the acceleration you need. The automatic isnt great at times, sometimes sticking to too low a gear. I get consistently better then the EPA gas mileage as long as A/C is off. Explaining how to work the back seats fold down/recline function is comical, but it is more that people dont expect such a "front seat" thing then anything wrong. Overall, I am happy so far, it rides, and handles well (though new tires are boon). On smooth roads it is shockingly quiet.

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  Its Maxximum Love - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By oldntired1950 - March 26 - 2:00 am

  Ive only had the Maxx for a couple of weeks, but so far its lived up to every expectation. The interior is comfortable and well thought out. The seat, steering and pedal adjustments mean that anyone, including my 49" wife can find a comfortable position. The engine has plenty of power and the brakes are great. Even the electric steering that I had heard such terrible things about provides ease in parking and decent feel on the highway. I love the bells and whistles like the automatic climate control, automatic light control, the XM radio and OnStar. I think that the General has finally given us a winner!

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  Sweet Ride - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Coozman - March 16 - 10:00 am

  This car caught my eye the moment I walked into the showroom. Different looking and sleek. Looked spacious enough. After shoppomg around for a few hours I settled on the Maxx LS. What a great choice. Handles nicely.

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  Drive - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By scott fuoco - March 11 - 4:23 pm

  Great fun car! Dogs comfortable riding in back. Problem w fuse box, then speed control sensor in front wheel. Both problems were addressed and taken care of very fast. Both times car did not break down. This car is always a conversation peice! Great handling car, top 10 saftey rated. Very fast, great for long trips, and plenty of space inside.

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  We Will See How Good It Is!!! - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Robert Lamason - February 9 - 11:23 am

  So far the Malibu Max has been a good car to drive. It seems to have quite a bit of get up and go. The rear view is not so great, but it will do. The car rides good for a car. Priced right with the discounts and easy to deal with the dealership in my case as I will not hassel over price and I did not have to, which is one very good reason I liked the deal!!! Hope the car holds up well as I have not purchase a new car for many years.

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  Examine it closely before signing - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Craigster45 - February 1 - 10:00 am

  Dealer never checked the car. Took delivery in the rain (delear made sure of that)drove home, all 4 rotors warped. They wouldnt replace even though brand new. The Area Rep would only cut them. Went back, waited 4 hours. Sun came out, 2 pass. doors didnt get enough paint, you could see sheet metal. Chips in window.

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  Love my Maxx - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Rose - October 16 - 3:33 am

  Bought this car with 7,000 miles on it as a dealer demo. Love the style, has tons of space and great gas mileage for a large sedan (34 highway, 27 city). There was a recall on the steering, but was fixed. I have 68,000 miles on it and the suspension is now noisy. Ive had the brakes redone, but I drive a lot of hills. I would buy another, but GM is not making the hatchback Maxx model any longer.

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  Laser Blue Malibu Maxx SS - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Nate - June 2 - 7:50 pm

  Love the engine power and options. The contrasting stitching on the seats and steering wheel is nice. Its an extremely versatile vehicle that has great performance and fuel economy. On average, I get about 22 MPG with mostly highway driving (pretty acceptable as the 2007 is rated at 24 MPG highway). The Laser Blue looks great but, according to my dealer, is hard to match if you need paint work done. After 1.5 years, Ive only had to deal with a burnt out taillight bulb. I didnt really like the sunroof deflector that was made of a mesh material, so I removed it and put on the factory sunroof deflector from the 05 Malibu.