2009 Chevrolet Malibu Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.35/5 Average
190 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The 2009 Chevrolet Malibu undergoes a number of key changes. The six-speed automatic becomes more widely available with the four-cylinder engine, and the four is now standard instead of the V6 on the top-level LTZ trim. Bluetooth connectivity also debuts as an option, while stability control becomes standard across the lineup. Power-adjustable pedals are no longer offered.

Pros:
  • Strong performance from V6, excellent ride and handling balance, roomy cabin, comfortable seats, high crash test scores, solid fit and finish.
Cons:
  • Some subpar cabin materials, no rear center armrest, fussy manual-shift feature, a few key luxury features are unavailable.

User Reviews:

Showing 81 through 90 of 190.00
  • 6 times in Shop - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    I have been stranded when vehicle quit w/o warning 4x and acted up 6x. It is going to shop again tomorrow for the 6x. They have replaced wiring harnesses, computer, fuel press. Gauge, engine oil pan, engine cam & actuator valves, air intake assemble, ecm replaced. Car literally lunged forward one night when I was in driveway. Luckily I had my foot on brake or it would of went through my garage door. More problems than the car is worth. Loved it when it runs, but I drive 90 mi. Rt a day and I am getting real tired of all the break- downs! No Wonder gm is going down! Would never buy another gm again. Wife bought used 06 Toyota rav month before and no problems with it. Go figure!

  • Try it youll love it. - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    This has to be one of the best cars Ive ever owned, including a Cadillac CTS. Everything is just perfect on this car. The V-6 has real go power, and Im averaging 23 MPG in mixed driving. The fit and finish is wonderful. The car is so quiet that I sometimes have to look at the tach to see if it is running at stoplights. All of you import buyers are really missing out on a great car. I tested Toyota and there is no comparison.

  • Great little car - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    I like all aspects of this car, mileage ,comfort,quality,reliability instrumentation,etc.

  • Upgrade to the 6 speed - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    I bought the LS1 version but if I had to do it again (and had more money to spend!) I would buy the 6 speed. The 4 speed is adequate but I think the 6 speed might be peppier. Carefully check your fit and finish. Ive discovered that my passenger door isnt properly aligned and that my folding rear seats dont latch properly. All in all its a pretty smooth riding car and adequate for the usual day to day driving. I wouldnt want to take it on an extended journey though. Maybe the LTX model is more comfy?

  • Deceiving - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    This car is very deceiving. You might read great reviews on this car, but in reality I own this car and I would take back the purchase in a second. I understand where the "Great" reviews come from, but after owning this car after 4 months, it breaks down so quickly. My friend also owns this car and he told me his front console is vert lose and shakey and that his front seat ripped. The SAME exact thing happened to me and my mother. We are also are not happy with the leather/suede in this car. The suede wears down so quickly and stains very easily. The audio system loses its frequency often causing way too often static and loss of the channel. There is an up to this car, the trunk is big!

  • Thrilled with this car - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    I am absolutely thrilled with this car inside and outside! The first thing I noticed was how nicely finished the car is from the outside and how quiet it is on the inside. Having grown up with Corvettes, I opted for the V6 engine, which is plenty of power. Actually, my previous car had 200 horsepower and this is 252. I owned 1997 and 2004 Monte Carlos and put 100,000 on each without requiring repairs prior to turning them in. Chevy certainly did their homework with this car! Its first rate! My father owns a DTS and always buys Cadillacs, but he thinks this car is fantastic as well.

  • Holy Cow, What a car - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    My early impressions of our 09 Malibu is very, very positive. Not only does the 4 cylinder do a good job at pulling this car, it gets very good gas mileage (26 city and 35 highway). Yes there are a couple of "blind spots", however, theyre not severe enough to detract from the overall look, inside and out. Plus, the dealership I bought from came up with an aftermarket "SS KIT" and installed it on our car. The kit includes ground effects all the way around, a non working 2nd tailpipe with chrome tip, rear deck spoiler, extra dark tinted windows, and the all important (SS emblem on both front doors and on the trunk. These few cosmetic additions makes it look like a european sports sedan. WOW!

  • Chevrolet Rides Again! - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    Outstanding vehicle! Think before you buy a Camry or Accord because they cant beat this vehicle. 4 cylinder has plenty of power especially when paired with the 6 speed. Turns a lot heads. If didnt have the bowtie on it you would never guess that it is a Chevy.

  • Great Value! - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    I do not trade cars that often, and I buy new cars only. Even though I really wanted a Cadillac CTS (could not justify the cost), the Malibu has proven to be a nice surprise! The exterior looks are great. Most people are surprised it is a Chevy. The handling and acceleration are good (I got the 6-cyl. LTZ). Gas mileage for my mostly town-driving is 22-23. We got 28-30 on a recent short trip, however, with the A/C on! The interior is comfortable, but I do not like the plastic door panels. Love the On- Star, XM, Blue-tooth and information center. Friends who are on their second Camry rode in the Malibu and could not believe how nice it was!

  • Extremely Happy With This Malibu - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    Im a long-time BMW driver who bought a Malibu as a second vehicle and I actually love driving this car. Im very happy with the quality, performance, comfort, and features. For the price of a base model 4-cyl 176 hp Accord, this Malibu (after multiple rebates and incentives) has V-6, satellite, 18" wheels, OnStar, bluetooth, and an excellent stereo. An enthusiastic endorsement from a BMW driver (Im driving my 12th BMW) should count for something. GM has proven that they can make excellent cars, now they just have to figure out how to make money on those cars.

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