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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  Horrible Car - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By cbourke - November 12 - 10:28 am

  I HATE this car! I bought it with only 2400 miles on it and have had it only 9 months. I have had more problems than I ever had with my 2001 Civic after 120K miles. I now have 19,000 miles and have had to get new rotors at 8,000 miles. I have been to the dealership 5 times because the car randomly turns off when I stop at redlights. The dealerships claims they cant duplicate the problem so they cant fix it. The car jolts real bad when driving at a steady 50 mph. Again the dealership "cant duplicate the problem" I demanded reprogramming of the computer and so far I have not had many problems, but then again it has only been a months since the reprogramming. Paint has also worn off radio.

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  What a disappointment - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Hate Chevys Now - October 14 - 7:50 pm

  Wow! I loved the style. I loved the deal. But like mama always said "that which is too good to be true, probably is". After 8 trips to the dealer, they are finally replacing the steering colunm, brake rotors, tie rod ends, ball joints, and brake rotors. These have all gone bad within the 16215 miles I have driven this year. This car rattles, shakes and shimmys its way down the road with great style. Too bad it has a four speed auto when most others have a 6spd auto. I cannot wait to get rid of this car, but its value is still plummeting like a comet falling from the sky. If build quality and rattles with no hint of dealer help do not bother you, please buy mine, it is for sale.

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  2006 Malibu-"Just a Car" - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
  By dannielle boilard - August 24 - 10:35 am

  I traded my 2002 Olds Intrigue for the 2006 Malibu which is a roomy small car. It is very light and blows around on the highway...over 100 kph is almost dangerous. I dont drive on the freeway because I cant keep up with the regular flow of traffic which is faster than that. I saved some money by trading in my Olds, but I know that I traded my Automobile for "just a car". It is way below the standard of comfort and performance that I was used to. I cant wait for the lease to end so that I can get rid of it.

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  Crappy car - 1997 Chevrolet Malibu
  By jescalex - April 8 - 2:35 am

  This car has been through 2 water pumps, one timing chain, (due to a dumb mechanic!), I have had brakes put on 4 times. It wears tires quick. Everything that goes wrong is very expensive to fix. Brakes alone for this car are $150. This car is not worth any amount of money paid for it. I know its a used car but 2 water pumps in 6 months. Thats nuts!

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  Malibu shows its age - 2002 Chevrolet Malibu
  By dcsc08 - March 5 - 9:52 pm

  My Malibu developed ignition problems just after the warranty ran out. Brakes are poorly designed and underpowered. Now at 80000 miles, it developed a cooling leak in the manifold which necessitates that the manifold gaskets be replaced at a cost of over $1200.00

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  Great for Teaching 2 Teenagers to Drive - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By RR - February 22 - 4:03 pm

  Rented one and loved the performance. First 50,000 miles no issues. Then had to replace manifold gasket and fan control twice. At 100,000 the manifold gasket, air conditioning compressor, and rack n pinion need replacement. Still gets over 30 mpg on long trips but typically 16-20 mpg in suburban driving. As usual, Chevy had a good idea that was executed poorly.

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  This aint no Camry - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
  By PJB - February 4 - 10:08 pm

  Had the car for a long term rental. Thoroughly unimpressed. Really sluggish acceleration. Transmission not ver responsive especially in reverse. The car wallowed like an overloaded boat even with only two people in it. Decent interior room but not much more to say on a positive note. Suffered seriously in comparison with our Camry and Sonata.

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  Too many electrical problems - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Bob - February 1 - 4:25 pm

  Too many electrical problems. Turn signal intermittant, noisy steering column, horn blows constant, removed horn fuse to stop horn. Dealership, Chevrolet should be accountable for these problems. This was a GM certified program car. This is first GM purchased and the way I look at it, will be the last! Buy American products and get junk for your money. Not good business procedure! This was a good looking car.

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  Unbelievable Problems - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
  By S. M. - January 11 - 8:05 pm

  Let me start off by saying I traded in a little Toyota Prius C for this car (big mistake!) thinking it would be a nice, reliable larger vehicle. I was wrong. I purchased this car in March. With less than 1500 miles on it I have had it in the shop twice. The first time the car had less than 1k miles on it!! It feels like a transmission problem. I am familiar with the system where the car will turn itself off while at a stoplight and then back on again- Im fine with that system. What is not okay is when driving in DC rush hour traffic, accelerating, braking, or slowing down and the car will violently jerk. The first time it felt as if I was rear-ended. I took it the dealer and they said they could not find any codes or problems with it. A week later, I had to drop it off it there again tonight. The car is unsafe to drive- the violent jerking is scary and in heavy traffic, cars behind you dont have much warning. It makes a loud clunking noise sometimes and sounds like the engine is going to drop out. The jerking is so bad if you dont have your seatbelt on, you WILL be thrown forward and injured. I cant believe this. This vehicle is less than one month old. Another issue is the Chevy MyLink system touchscreen. Occasionally it wont turn on, and other times Apple Carplay wont work. I called Chevy and they offered some "troubleshooting" tips but nothing was a permanent fix. I am having the dealer take a look at it as well. Chevy said Apple Carplay not working with certain Iphones is a "known problem". Then why has it not been fixed??! I am frustrated. I traded in a perfectly good little, reliable Toyota and got this monster. I like the car otherwise, but not enough to buy one again. It is very comfortable (compared to the tiny Prius C). My gas mileage is pretty decent- hovers around high 20s and occasionally dips up or down. Im very short and find visibility not to be an issue. If It didnt have the jerking problem, I would love this car.

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  Not a good car but it works. - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By bigbearsfan - November 8 - 12:06 am

  This is the cheapest quality car I have ever owned. We decided to buy this instead of a new Accord because it saved money (a great deal after rebates). I have owned 2 Mazdas, an Altima, and a CR-V and the build quality of this car doesnt even stand up to my old 96 626. After 28k miles this car has several interior rattles, a mushy brake pedal and suspension, and overboosted steering. Everything inside the car feels and sounds cheap to the touch and the doors dont stay open by themselves even on the slightest incline. This is not a great car. It has lots of potential but GM cheaped out again. And some folks wonder why we lose to the Asian car companies. Get the Impala, its better.