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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  Go Chevy - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
  By FL Banker - July 28 - 5:30 pm

  Smooth ride, exceptional power, drinks gas like a 4 cylinder, very comfortable driving position due to tilt/telescoping wheel, power seat and lumbar adjustment for my back. Headlights are extremely bright (almost like HIDs) and the lighted cruise and radio controls on the steering wheel are not often found even on premium vehicles. Way to go Chevy!

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  Lots of Fun for Not a Ton (of $) - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Gene - July 27 - 10:08 pm

  I cut my performance car teeth on the likes of a Chevelle SS396 and can honestly say that this Malibu SS is a blast to drive. Different of course, but the fun factor has returned. One has to be ready for some pretty heavy torque steer, but once adjusting for that the car can launch "very energetically". The SSs styling and stance are executed very nicely, and it doesnt look like a clone of everything else on the road. The seats are very comfortable, the controls are simple and have a good feel, and it has excellent load capacity, especially in the trunk. The relatively low price for the performance is a definite bonus. Test one, youll like it! Good job, Chevrolet and GM Performance!

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  Cheaply Built - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
  By jess_wells - July 25 - 11:26 pm

  We purchased this vehicle almost a year ago, and weve replaced the brakes twice. Neither sun visor stays up and the plastic mirror cover is broken on both sun visors. There is a rattling noise under the dash board that rattles loudly between 40 and 55 mph. The car has a difficult time starting, and we often have to turn the key three or four times to get the car to start. The dealer denies there is a problem with the way the car starts, and they say they can not fix the sun visors. We have a three day appointment to get the noise "looked at", but the dealer will most likely need to keep the car additional days to tear into the dash board, if they admit they can hear the sound.

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  Great overall - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Mike - July 21 - 10:11 am

  I take it pretty easy and regularly get 55 mpg. Has decent pep and great exterior look. Roomy inside but interior could have better finishes.

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  I love it!!! - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Diamond Girl - July 21 - 2:00 am

  I love my Car! Its so comfortable and stylish.My family (3kids) and hubby can sit very comfortably. Its spacious!I love going on my little errands for the family:)I always wanted a Bonneville for years, until I saw the Malibu.I have not regretted purchasing this car. I know that I am going to love it for a long time.......

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  Best Ever - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By DATAGUY - July 21 - 2:00 am

  This is my best new car ever. It looks great,handles great,lots of power. Other people love the looks of it.the only change I would make-leather interior on the next one.

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  Saab for Chevrolet price - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By legal begal - July 21 - 2:00 am

  This car which I understand is based on the Saab 9-3 really drives like a Saab. Be sure to get 3.5 L V6. Mileage is unreal, high that is around 35 plus on real X-Way driving.

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  I just love my new Malibu! - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Jamiesue26 - July 21 - 2:00 am

  The car dealer was wonderful and very informative. The car handles well and is so quiet... it is a dream to drive, especially in Miami traffic!

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  Disappointed chevy lover - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By HMaccracken - July 20 - 10:00 am

  Bought brand new for 20000 grand. Had front brake rotors and pads replaced 3 times in the first 20000 miles, hole in battery, a/c compressor failed, rear seat belts had to be replaced, tape player quit, fuel injector failed, repeated engine light problems. I bought this car for peace of mind and reliability because my wife would be driving it with our children most of the time. My father woked for Chevy for 20 plus years and I thought I was a very loyal customer, But I am very disapponted!!!!!!! THE IMPORTS ARE KICKING OUR BUTTS!!!!!!!!!

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  Never again! - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By J.W. - July 19 - 11:01 pm

  I hate this car! Have had just over a year. Has been to the dealer 4 times since April 2005 when purchased new. Car fails to start at times. Dealer doesnt know why! Not acceptable when a small child is involved here. This is a chronic issue. Noisy right front. Again, no dealer help on this. Gauges suddenly shut off! Back to the dealer for this issue. No help that time either!! Now power steering comes and goes as if possessed! Safety issue! Was at dealer again ....and again no help!!!