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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  STS twin turbo 3.9l ss maxx - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By wowza - March 6 - 7:43 pm

  I loved the SS Maxx from the first time I saw it. It is naturally fast. Very comfortable, and quiet (for those who like quiet, I prefer a throaty exhaust). I would totally recommend this car to anyone (modded or not)

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  MAXXimum Satisfaction - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By NMeiring - February 28 - 5:10 am

  After test driving this car, I couldnt look at anything else. I had been looking for something that would get good MPG (26.5 in town), have the extras that my Jeep GCL had, but still look sporty. I looked at so many vehicles, my husband called it my new hobby. The MAXX has comfortable heated seats, adjustable pedals, tons of cargo room, a smooth ride, wireless headphones in the back and is FUN to drive. This car deserves a second look and a test drive. Lots of pick up, feel secure with a super safe drive. With a sunroof and the rear skylights, the interior feels even larger than it is. Looking forward to using the remote starter this winter

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  Malibu LTZ - 2007 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By KM - January 9 - 4:56 pm

  Owned this car for over a year now. I had test driven the LS but the LTZ is a class above. I agreed with Edmunds (bland interior for the LS), but found the LTZ felt totally different. The leather wrapped steering felt much more comfortable, and the rest of interior did not feel cheap. Same with the wheels etc. I never read the manual much, so I keep finding new things in the car. When cleaning I found the audio volume control on the steering on the underside of other audio buttons. Recently I found out I could do tap-shift. I could not figure how to operate the +/- buttons earlier till I put the car in L coming downhill - it was so much fun!

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  A Maxx love affair - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Lynne - January 5 - 2:16 pm

  Our Maxx has been dependable, fun to drive and has met all our needs. It corners great and is easy to handle in all situations. The load capacity is perfect for carrying groceries, passengers and lawn and garden products as well as home improvement items. The highway mileage is great. We have has much leg room as our last car a Mercury Grand Marquis.

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  Great buy! - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By hawkfan-man - December 29 - 7:46 pm

  We bought this car in Apr 05 as a left over 04 model. Got a great price on a vehicle loaded with features. Car has been trouble free and still looks and runs like new as we aproach 45000 miles. We couldnt be happier.

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  Great for Family of Five - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Charles - December 1 - 12:26 am

  Very surprising car, but its based an an Opel, after all. We chose it over a Mazda 5 mini-mini van. Big and versatile enough for 3 boys aged 7, 10, and 12 for long trips and has enough room for our suitcases too. The van will stay home unless we take the camper on future trips. Bought it because Bambi wrecked our 89 BMW 325i, so we were kind of spoiled and skeptical, but not anymore! Great features for the price, especially with the rebates. XM radio is excellent, would not have bought it except it was already installed which were glad of. With the 2006 interior updates and more external chrome it looks more contemporary. Hope it proves reliable!

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  Updated Review 2 Years Later - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Dbadcraig - November 8 - 9:33 pm

  See my original review below dated 11/24/07. I now have 92,500 miles on this well equiped but basic Fleet car. The front end thump remains but is no worse after 20,000 more miles. The engine and transmission are as good as new- no oil use and I have obtained has high as 41 miles per gallon on the highway @ 60mph. Ive had to replace warped front rotors, fix a short in side view mirror, new indicator bulb and thanks to a nail in a sidewall, buy two new Bridgestone tires (with the mpg my care gets with them, why change?) I did find the tan interior stained easily--but it also cleaned easily, try "Tuff Stuff" from Pep Boys. Paint, trim and interior is holding up very well.

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  BAD to the BONE and WICKED FAST - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By tires4u - October 24 - 12:13 am

  The BATMOBILE.. as our car is Black w/tinted windows. This car will SCARE you. With the manual shift feature you can lay down a 20 foot path of rubber..just like the old days. SS stands for SUPER SPORT again and this car is all that. We love the design and functionality of the car. The rear sunroofs and dvd player make it like our own private jet for fast travel. The torque range is SMOOTH all the way past 100mph. You have to be CAREFUL or the tires will break loose when shifting thru the gears. All I can say is we are one of the lucky few to get to drive this car everyday. After 50,000 miles NO SQUEAKS or RATTLES as QUIET as the day it was NEW, LUVIT SS stands for SWEET and SEXY !!FAST

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  malibu maxx - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Letitia Simmet - October 9 - 10:00 am

  This is a very peppy car with the 3.5L 6 cycle engine, you step on the gas and it means business. Comfortable driving with all the buttons at your fingertips.

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  great car - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By dental lab - October 4 - 10:00 am

  rides like a big car