Overview & Reviews

Since its debut back when the Beatles were singing about holding hands, the Chevrolet Malibu has gone through several iterations. The initial lineup consisted of rear-drive midsizers that included coupes, sedans, wagons and the legendary, high-horsepower SS-badged muscle car. After a downsizing in the late 1970s and a quiet death in the early '80s, the Malibu was reincarnated as a smaller, anonymous, front-wheel-drive favorite of rental fleets.

The two newest generations of the Malibu have been much improved, however, and are more deserving of some "Love Me Do." Though it generally falls a little short of class-leading status, a new or late-model used Malibu is still a solid choice for a midsize family sedan thanks to its strong performance, composed and quiet ride, handsome styling and advanced electronics features.

Current Chevrolet Malibu
The current Chevrolet Malibu comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 196 horsepower. From there, shoppers can go either the performance or fuel economy route. The former is satisfied by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder good for 259 hp. The Malibu Eco, on the other hand, features a 2.4-liter four-cylinder (182 hp) connected to a mild hybrid system that helps return nearly 30 mpg combined. The base engine achieves the same fuel economy, however, so we see no reason to select the Eco for this model year. All Malibus come standard with front-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission.

Four Malibu trim levels are offered: LS, LT, LTZ and Eco. The base LS is nicely equipped with alloy wheels, cruise control, air-conditioning and a power driver-seat height adjuster. The LT has three sublevels (1LT, 2LT and 3LT) that add perks like dual-zone automatic climate control, a power driver seat, a 7-inch touchscreen, the MyLink interface with smartphone integration and upgraded audio with iPod/USB connectivity. The LTZ boasts leather upholstery and heated front seats. Aside from its hybrid hardware, the Eco is equipped much like a 1LT. Options, depending on trim, include xenon headlights, a navigation system, Pioneer audio and safety features such as lane-departure warning and rear cross-traffic alert.

In reviews of the latest Chevrolet Malibu, we've identified its ride quality and refinement as particularly strong points. Impacts rarely filter into the cabin, which remains whisper-quiet at highway speeds. Moreover, all Malibus enjoy an abundance of soft-touch materials, decent-quality switchgear and an attractive dashboard. The main downside is a relative lack of rear-seat legroom. Overall, the Malibu doesn't fully stand out from the talented crowd in this segment, but it's still a solid choice for family sedan shoppers.

Used Chevrolet Malibu Models
The current-generation Malibu was introduced for 2013. It brings welcome improvements in refinement, feature content and efficiency relative to its predecessor, though shortcomings like limited backseat room persist. For 2014, this Malibu received numerous revisions aimed at quelling early criticism, including a fuel-economy bump for the base four-cylinder, more torque for the turbocharged engine, revised suspension tuning and some new interior features. These changes didn't make a big difference in terms of the car's place in the family-sedan pecking order, but they do render the 2013 model marginally less appealing as a used option.

The previous-generation Malibu was produced from 2008 through 2012. With its crisp, tailored lines, this Malibu looked more like a luxury sedan than its forgettable predecessor. Its cabin was similarly handsome, with a stylish design and two-tone color schemes that stood out from the crowd (while disguising less-than-ideal materials).

Throughout its life, this Malibu was available in four trims (LS, 1LT, 2LT and LTZ) and with a choice of two engines. A 169-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder was initially standard on all but the LTZ, but for '09 it became available for every Malibu. That year also saw a six-speed automatic transmission replace the original four-speed unit on all but the LS and 1LT trims, though every Malibu got it a year later.

A 3.6-liter 252-hp V6 served as the optional engine upgrade (though it was initially standard on the LTZ). This always had a six-speed automatic, as well as a different steering system than the four-cylinder. Its hydraulic steering (versus electric) offered more weighting and a bit more road feel, but neither system was really a standout in the class. Similarly, this Malibu's handling in general was responsive enough, but few would deem it sporty.

Our staff was impressed by many aspects of this Chevrolet Malibu. Its combination of handsome looks, a spacious and attractive cabin, competent performance and a quiet ride gave Chevy a serious player in this tough segment. Subpar rear seat space and hit-or-miss interior construction were notable drawbacks, along with a few missing features like a navigation system. Besides its transmission, changes were restricted to features availability, with items like Bluetooth and an iPod interface eventually added.

The previous Chevy Malibu was offered from 2004-'08. As there was that one-year overlap, Chevrolet distinguished the two different Malibus by calling the retiring version the "Malibu Classic." In addition to a sedan body style, the outgoing Malibu was also offered in a longer-wheelbase hatchback version called the Malibu Maxx. Compared to earlier Malibus, this one came with more powerful engine choices, a roomier layout and safety features like available side curtain airbags and adjustable pedals.

Base LS and midlevel LT models made up the bulk of the Malibu's production. The lack of style and performance was addressed in 2006 when the lineup was beefed up with the leather-trimmed LTZ and high-performance SS. For power, this generation offered a 2.2-liter four-cylinder rated at 144 hp (LS and LT models), a 217-hp 3.5-liter V6 (standard on the LTZ and optional on LT) and a top-dog 3.9-liter V6 with 240 ponies for the SS. All were hooked up to a four-speed automatic transmission, and the SS featured a manual-shift mode.

In reviews, we commented favorably about the car's smooth ride quality and roomy interior. Noted downsides included a lackluster cabin and subpar braking and handling. We'd suggest choosing one of the V6 engines, which provide an agreeable combination of performance and fuel economy.

The preceding Chevrolet Malibu generation was sold during the 1997-2003 model years. In 2000, the front styling was modified to be more Impala-like and the 3.1-liter V6 was improved with more power. Minor detail changes like exterior/interior trim revisions, automatic headlamp control, new audio systems with a CD player and new colors carried the Malibu through its next few years. We were fans of this Malibu at the time, viewing it as something of an overlooked gem in GM's lineup, but its advancing age and spotty consumer reviews make it a tricky used-car selection.

User Reviews:

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  Absolute dissapointment - 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
  By coswife13 - February 25 - 10:10 pm

  I bought this 2010 Malibu used with 55,888 miles on it. Lets just say I should have kept my 2007 Impala. I traded due to wanting a car without leather but needless to say that was a small problem compared to everything that has happened with this Malibu. I have been back to the dealership 6 times in the last month and a half that I have had it and it still isnt running properly. I had to put all new tires, new brakes, a new blower in the heater. My speakers are junk and they have put new struts on but I am still experiencing the same noise as before the "new" struts were on. I have never had to put this much work into a car before and my first car was 15 years old when I got it!

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  Not Bad - 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
  By saminboca - February 21 - 11:38 am

  This is a nice car, not a great car but a nice car. It does whjat it was made to do, take 4 or 5 people from one place to another in some comfort. It is the first American car I have owned in 20+ years and yes The American car industry has come a long way but.... why do they scrimp on little things that would make the car a pleasure instgead of just O.K.? Windows that one touch going down but not up? No internal trunk release? Power seats on one side only? and no going up and down does NOT make the seat power. No spare tires? Not run flats either.. It could use a bit more power too. I will say for the price it is a nice car.

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  Overall - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By malibu13 - February 12 - 6:17 pm

  I am very disappointed in the trunk opening and very, very disappointed in the gasmileage for a car rated at 48 mpg that gives something between 25 & 35 mpg depending on the length of drive and weather conditions. Why no driving lights on the LT2 model?

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  One Hell Of A Car - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By jc775 - February 8 - 11:43 pm

  To Start off, I dont care about the negative comments foreign car fans have to say. The Chevy Malibu is an amazing car! I got my 03 in04 as a first car and im happy i did. This car got me home EVERY time. Yes ive changed the Intake manifold gasket and fuel pump but like they say, take care of the car, car will take care of you. Just recently, I was coming down the mountain road covered in black ice. Going the 50 mile speed limit, the car hits the black ice and crashes, hitting the side wall. She still started right up and drove us down not to far to safety at a chain instal shoulder. She took all the damage which cost her her life. This car saved my life and the lives of my friends.

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  Love It! - 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
  By capeverde74 - February 6 - 12:12 pm

  I traded in my 2006 Jeep Laredo for a 2013 Malibu. I was skeptical in the beginning as Id never owned a Chevy and hadnt owned a sedan since my Honda Accord over 15 years ago. I was seeking something that was fuel efficient (better than my Jeep, which was horrible), that looked good, durable, and didnt hurt my pocketbook. As a teacher and single mom with two kids remaining in my budget is essential. This car does it for me. I love the look, the smooth ride, and my monthly payment. My kids love it as well! Even though Ive only had my new car for three days, I can already see that I will be saving on gas. Oh and love the automatic start button!

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  Great Car - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By peen1 - January 23 - 11:21 am

  I have 111K on my 3.6L LTZ. I still like the quality interior and have been in few mid priced cars that can match the interior quality. It still runs and handles like new barring a minor squeek hear and there. The only thing that has gone wrong is that I had to replace one power door lock mechanism. Its slowly loosing oil and coolant after 111K miles, but I think I can get at least another couple years out of it before Id have to fix it. Also, the chevy key fobs are junk, and break but are pretty cheap to replace. I

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  Rims - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By stacy1966 - January 20 - 2:40 pm

  I agree with the rims issue.Mine have made noise from the beginning so we had to take one off already and it was bent but still making a noise. am also very disappointed on the gas mileage.I cant seem to keep gas in it and I only drive around 10 miles daily. anyone else with this problem.

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  uncomfortable drivers seat - 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
  By al1234 - January 19 - 1:54 pm

  I have the LT model with the "upgraded interior", bought in mid-Dec 2012. I find that I am absolutely unable to get the power drivers seat into a comfortable back position, no matter how I adjust the many electric controls. The lumbar adjustment is completely crazy. It sticks out WAY too much, even on the most "reduced" setting. Otherwise, I have had only 2 issues: 1) Brake lights would not go out after releasing brake pedal because pedal was not coming back up on its own (needed a new pedal assembly) 2) Steering wheel not centered wheel was positioned slightly to the right as car was driven straight (needed alignment)

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  This car is a [non-permissible content removed] - 2002 Chevrolet Malibu
  By pag_089 - January 18 - 11:26 pm

  I bought my Malibu in September 2010, and immediately the problems started. I cant even begin to think of the number of times this car has been in the shop. So far, Ive spent over $5,000 on it out of pocket, and thats not counting the work that was performed under the dealers warranty. This car is nothing but a money pit. Im telling everybody I know to avoid this car, and to avoid Chevrolet in general like the plague. They produce poor quality vehichles and dont stand by their work.

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  NO SPARE TIRE! - 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
  By stone7946 - January 15 - 7:41 pm

  Having my 2013 Malibu for 3 months now, my only problem is that the car comes with NO SPARE / SPACE SAVER TIRE. No where in the the brochure or window sticker did it say you get an air pump. Nor did the sales rep say anything. When I realized there was nothing in the pit I went back to the dealer and was told that I could by a space saver, jack and tools for $500-. GM Customer Support say sorry: all you get is an air pump and Roadside Assistance. If youve ever had a blow out or a tire damaged by road debris, a pump is useless and no, I dont care to wait hours for roadside. GM needs to wise up and and give the customer the option!