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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  Aging well - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By cs - January 9 - 5:16 pm

  Update as I approach 90,000 miles-- probably the best car Ive owned (out of 30+). Had the infamous steering shaft replaced shortly after warranty expiration, and it looked like it might fail again last year, but it must have healed itself. Other than that, its been reliable and an extremely comfortable, flexible car. Took me several months to get used to electric steering, but once you get used to it, its fine.

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  Overlooked and underappreciated - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By jnem - January 8 - 4:30 pm

  I went in to the dealership to buy a Malibu sedan but after looking at the Maxx I was really impressed and bought it instead. This was a low mileage program car so I got a very good deal on it.The Chevy dealer was great to work with, repairing a few small items necessary to qualify as a Chevrolet Certified Used Car. The car gets great mileage, 28 mpg mixed hwy and city driving. I find it to be very comfortable and quiet with excellent power. I love the hatchback and the rear seat design is the most comfortable rear seat I have sat in due to its ability to recline. The driver area is quite functional and ergonomically comfortable as well as easy for me to get in and out.

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  Best and Most Versatile Vehicle Ever - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By JON - December 11 - 12:56 am

  Chevrolet have got it bang on. The vehicle has power with great fuel economy, wagon cargo space with nice styled lines. Perfect family vehicle, DVD player in the back keeps the little ones happy and quiet. Great versatility with being able to fold all seats flat to increase storage, as well as the back seats being able to slide forward and back and tilt for great back seat comfort. Loads of leg room front and back. Power foot pedals, seat, roof, windows and locks make things very comfortable. The oil life monitor meant that my first oil change was not until 12,000km so very economical for service and also environmentally. Has been very reliable with a bulb being the only thing to replace.

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  Love this car - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Maxxoliver - December 4 - 12:03 am

  This is the second Maxx for us. The first one had about all the problems possible in one car. We got a buyback on that one and bought another. This is the most versatile car we have ever owned. The rear stereo DVD system is great. The kids and the grandkids can listen to and watch their own music or DVD. On a long trip that is a really good thing.The mileage is really good and it is very comfortable. So much fun to drive it is hard to share. The latch system for child safety seats is one of the greatest safety features along with all of the airbags. We love the look, the ride and overall everything about this car.

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  Good car - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By raji - November 22 - 10:00 am

  Malibu Maxx is very reliable and fun to drive. Pick up is good and reasonably priced compared to Honda or Toyota. With DVD option my kids love it that makes me to drive comfortably.

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  Great, well-rounded car! - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By 2005 Malibu Maxx - November 3 - 7:36 pm

  I purchased this car used and have had it for about 3 months now. In this time, I have come to love the style, comfort, and reliability this car offers. I feel safe in it and love to drive it. For the 3.5L engine, it gives off lots of pep and still gets great gas mileage (I consistently get 26-30 MPG mixed driving). It also offers great versatility with the folding down seats and huge rear cargo space. Even with 80k on it, it drives like a new car and is just right for me. The only thing I dislike about the model is that they discontinued making it after 07!

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  What a Deal - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By d_vicsik.rm - October 24 - 6:53 pm

  Had to buy a car capable of handling my wife and I, two toddlers, and our three dogs (Great Dane, Boxer, Jack Russell). With the back seat slid forward (but back enough to allow legroom), the dog gate to the rear hatch is large enough to hold the Boxer and Great Dane. On a recent trip to Houston, I averaged 32 MPG on the highway at 70 MPH. Handling is borderline fun though the electric steering seems to sometimes lose the drivers intent and seems to emphasize torque steer at times during hard acceleration. With the dogs out and the back seat slid back, its a limo!

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  Sporty get up and go - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Deannie - October 1 - 12:53 am

  This car is fun and relaxing to drive and park, it has a great turning radius and can get into hard to park places. My husband loves that. I love the roominess and the skylights in the rear and our moonroof in the front. Plus we go sattelite radio and I love that also. A 6 disc CD player , the sound is great. It has all the goodies that I would expect in a more pricey car. It is quiet, the engine is low sounding and no outside noises coming in, has power when you need it and handles well on ice and snow. The brakes are really good and so far we get an average of 27.6 mpg. We are very happy with it and reccommend it to all.

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  A great family car - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By MaxxLover - September 6 - 11:30 pm

  Our Malibu Maxx has proved to be a great family car, loaded with unexpected features which enhance its utility and appeal. From delayed door locking to remote starting capability, there is lts here to enjoy. While I have seen some critics of the cars electric steering, it feels fine to me, a former BMW driver. The interior is spacious and well designed. All in all you will enjoy driving this car - and it looks good too.

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  Great value in a fun little car. - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Maxx02360 - August 1 - 3:26 am

  After a month of driving, I am really impressed with this little car. It handles well and is very responsive. I have the LT with heated leather seats, remote start, climate control, power sun-roof, 6 CD in dash stereo, DVD player, etc... Totally loaded. A 2004 leftover, I paid less than half of what I spent on my last car. I admit that the deal I was able to make had a lot to do with me buying this car. But, this car is a real sleeper. This is not a car the will impress your neighbors, unless they got to drive it. Anyway, Ive already got the impressive car in the drive way. (Our other vehicle is a Yukon Denali XL.)