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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  Simply put: a good value - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Mark T. - December 24 - 2:00 am

  Its about as good a deal as you can get on a decent midsized car. I would advise people looking to buy a Mally to go in after theyre trying to get the new model year cars out there, youll get a great deal. IF YOU ARE BUYING USED, I would advise you to go after a low-mileage Malibu. The Edmunds rating for 99 Mallys is real low, yet my car has been a dream (22K miles). Ive only had to fix: front brake rotors, burned out tail-light (twice), broken seatbelt buckle. All under warranty. And thats it! My Mally has been everything Ive asked for and has never, ever failed me. Love a Malibu and it wont let you down.

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  PeppyChevy - 2007 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Jackd911 - December 15 - 6:06 am

  With VVT it is very peppy. Not as economical as our 2004. Very roomy. Many good features like traction control and ABS. Has all air bags. Very quiet. So far no defects. I like the styling and new color, Amber Bronze. New position of nets in luggage compartment is very useful. Good build quality.

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  Engine Trouble At Sixty Thousand Miles - 2002 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Switched to Honda - December 12 - 12:22 pm

  For three years the Malibu was a wonderful car to own. I liked the engine power and the extremely comfortable driver seat. However, the car started developing severe coolant- related engine problems at 60,000 miles. I did some research and discovered that this is a common occurance with Malibus. Last week I traded it off and bought a brand new Honda. If you buy a Malibu, you will eventually have coolant-related engine problems. I faithfully maintained mine and it still happened. The Malibu has a serious design flaw in its cooling system. Buy at your own risk.

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  Silver Malibu LS - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By rhonda - December 4 - 1:42 pm

  Ive enjoyed my Malibu LS. The only problems Ive been having lately are starting and staying charged up. And the radiator seems to run hot. But other than that I have enjoyed my vehicle. I would recommend it to anyone.

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  Chevrolet Malibu Base - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Sabrina Gainey - December 3 - 8:01 am

  I purchased my vehicle used. I have only had this vehicle for 3 months and I have already experienced problems with the steering. When I am making a left turn the car makes a very disturbing noise. I have also had problems when starting the car. It makes a noise as if the battery is dead.

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  THE PERFECT CAR - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Lvlyliz - December 2 - 2:00 am

  This car is amazing, dont dis it till you try it.. It rides like a dream.. Oh I cant wait to get up and drive it everyday!

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  After 8 yrs - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By not a lemon - December 1 - 9:48 pm

  Bought this car new and after 8 yrs still havent had major problems. The only 2 issues with this car I have had are the rear lights (brake/reverse) burn out frequently and have had water pump replaced twice. Other than this, the last 93k miles have been problem free.

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  2.0 is the way to go! - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Rick Rajala - November 27 - 10:01 pm

  Great ride- firm but smooth and quiet. Acceleration is strong but linear- not sudden jerk. Average 30 MPG. Handling is sporty- but not a sports sedan. Transmission shifts smoothly and always in the right gear- no hunting. Seats are comfortable. Forward visibility is good, but headlights just adequate. Side and rear pillars block view- rear camera helps with backing, but not great- maybe just need to get used to it. Forward Collision Assist is okay, but rain and fog can cause inaccurate calculation which has resulted in sudden braking for no reason- no cars on rural road. Side mirror alert also shows a ghost vehicles- ie none there. Lane Assist does not work well in wet weather.

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  Great Vehicle - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By hampel - November 26 - 2:00 am

  Rides well. Great mileage for a new car. Quiet interior and minimal road noise at all speeds. Really appreciate the "remote vehicle starter system" from inside the house, especially on those very cold days. Should be great for the hot summer days. Exterior design has improved over prior years styles. Chevrolet has right with their heated leather seats - almost instantly.

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  Malibu is an overall great car - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By baker348 - November 22 - 10:00 am

  The malibu drives great. it makes a lot of noise when going over uneven pavement. That is the only flaw and it can be covered up with the radio.