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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  Love this Malibu! - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Harryb - January 16 - 8:00 pm

  This Malibu was one of the first. I had it custom built back in November, 2007. It is simply a great car. No problems. Lots of fun to drive.

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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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  Excellent Daily Driver! - 2007 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Takis Tzinakos - January 9 - 10:43 pm

  Drove the Malibu 3500kms in three weeks, in town and on the highway. It`s an excellent daily driver, comfortable and roomy with adequate power, acceptable handling, and very good brakes (ABS would help). Found it sensitive to high winds and while the fuel consuption was 8.2L / 100km in town didn`t get any better on the highway. Overal quality, performance, comfort, styling etc. OK, but not on a par with the Hyundai Sonata!

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  Rockin Car - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Terry - January 8 - 5:05 pm

  This is my company car and if I were to go and purchase a 4 door sedan for myself this would be it. I like the power, comfort and fuel economy. I go to Baltimore every month and average 40 to 42 mpg on the highway. The V6 has punch to pass and light up the tires if you want. Traction control is nice and it has plenty of leg room. If you have an older child or adults that sit in the back you may select the Pontiac G6 instead (same platform and engine). I look forward to the new design for 2008 and I will be getting a new one as soon as they come out. I have heard that some of this years have had some problems but if you are buying used they would be fixed since most issues were within 1st 10K.

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  Good car for a low price - 2007 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Jeff - January 6 - 10:29 am

  After 2,000 miles there have been no problems. 26 mpg avg for city driving. The 4 cylinder has plenty of pep. Nice set of standard features on the base model plus we really like the 5 star safety rating for side impact when equiped with full side curtain air bags.

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  My Malibu is great - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Leslie - January 5 - 10:03 pm

  This car is much nicer than I thought. Ive always liked Malibus, but the new body and nice angle on dash is great. It drives great, and its great on gas. Love my new Chevy!

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  Big Bang for your Buck! - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Nelson - January 4 - 4:56 am

  Just bought my Chevy Malibu LTZ. Had a Cadillac CTS-V, but due to the cost of gas, had to sacrifice it. This car is awesome. It is extremely quiet, those acoustic windows actually do help a lot. A better value and performer than all the expensive competitors. Chevrolet made another quality product, which is I keep coming back.

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  great Car - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Thompson - December 31 - 4:34 pm

  Great car. I have owned many lemons. Cant wait to go out and drive it. Glad it is an American made car. I have previously owned a foreign car which has basically nickled and dimed me to death replacing head gaskets twice. Major expense especially when the parts are foreign. This car is the greatest. Best smooth ride. All the neighbors would like to have it. Glad this time I invested in a Chevy. If you purchase one Im sure you will love it..

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  33400 miles later Dependable car so far - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By BJW from Chicago - December 31 - 10:00 am

  I bought my Malibu in May of 2000. It currently has 33,400 miles on it. The first thing that went wong was the selector knob for the blower. The blower was blowing out of of all areas. When we took this apart the black rubber gasket was not in place, rejusted it and now it is fine. My tires are cracked inside the tread. One of my tires is bubbled up on the outside & wobbling. No brake problems yet. There is knocking coming from under the hood until the car warms up.

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  I love this car and would buy another. - 2007 Chevrolet Malibu
  By jacquelyne beasley - December 25 - 12:17 pm

  This is one of the best cars I have owned in my entire life. If I could get my husband to buy me another one I would. I love my car and I want another one just to go to church in only on Sunday and nothing else. Great car, great design, good on my budget. Thank you GM.