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 it! - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Mom2TwoLil1s - May 11 - 9:42 am

  I had a Ford truck before my car, and I have got too say I love my car! I get where I need to go faster because of the easy handling, and not having to fill up on gas everyday! I have 2 small boys and I feel safe in this car that if an accident did occur they would fine. Also my OnStar is a huge plus, very helpful people that are outgoing and willing to go the extra mile to help you out!

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  2003 Chevy Malibu - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By andrea soupos - May 10 - 9:14 am

  A very reliable car. Absolutely no problems with any part of it. Good quality for a reasonable price & 6 cylinder engine power important for highway driving.

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  A Good Value - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
  By EddieC - May 9 - 1:59 pm

  I leased my Malibu last fall and have found it to be a superb vehicle. My car has the 3.5L V6 and plenty of get- up-and-go. I drove the Accord, Civic, Camry, and Corolla, but none of them were this nice for this price (I got mine for around $22k). Ive got nearly 10,000 miles on it and had no problems at all. I get about 30 miles per gallon with about an even balance of driving in town and on the highway.

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  Love it so far! - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
  By L Reeve - April 27 - 6:56 pm

  Ive only had my car 10 days but I have to say, it rides like a dream. I have filled up my tank once and am already getting 23 mpg. in town with lots of stop and go. That is equal to the 4 cyl. car I traded in. Ride is quiet and smooth. Lots of compliments about the new body style and overall look of the car.

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  Good Value - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
  By dew - April 27 - 6:53 pm

  Pros - lots of bells and whistles for the money. Cons - problems with interior fit. Replaced dash cowl because it warped within 2 days of ownership. A piller trim now separating with the hot sun.

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  Better than the competition - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By docsteve - April 23 - 4:36 am

  I recently traded my 2006 Impala SS for the 2008 Malibu LT with the 4 cylinder. I was getting 13.5 mpg with my V8 powered Impala spending 500.00/month on gas! I had it forget the SS! I test drove the camry, Honda, Mazda6, Altima. As far as I am concerned it had the best ride of them all, great value for the money. The 4 cylinder is suprisinly peppy. Fit and finish are excellent. The car turns heads where ever I go. People ask what are you driving? The cabin is quiet with no wind noise on the highway. So far 26.5 local mpg and 31 highway! Unreal! cut my monthly gas bill in half!

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  04 Malibu LT - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By jim cunningham - April 21 - 2:00 am

  Overall satisfaction is high. LT model is loaded with enjoyable extras. Comfort is high for mid-size car. Dealer follow up far above expectations.

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  Bigger is not necesarily better. - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By runwithsue - April 19 - 10:00 am

  I bought the Malibu because it was larger than the 1995 Cavalier and a quieter ride, but I have many more problems with the Malibu than I ever had with the Cavalier. I am at 51,000 miles and about to replace the rotors, which have warped for the second time. The air conditioner keeps switching off for no reason as does the air re-circulation. In a heavy rain, my brake lights shorted out. Im afraid I will be going a new direction for the next new vehicle.

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  A good car - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Denis - April 18 - 10:13 am

  I was hesitating between a Mazda3, a Sonata and a Jetta. I finally choose the Malibu because of the price and the rating which was not so bad. After almost two months of ownership, and a trip of 2400 km (1500 mi.), I find this car very pleasant. Good seating position for a six footer, very good fuel economy, good acceleration and a feel of solidity. I dont regret my old car (1993 Mercury Grand Marquis) and hope that this Malibu will be of good service.

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  Malibu LS - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By 2000 Chevy Malibu - April 16 - 12:18 am

  I love the taupe leather seats in my Malibu LS Gold Edition , I also love the power sunroof, seats, fog lights and cd and tape decks. This car gets excellent gas mileage and is VERY powerful with plenty of standard features. The SFI 3.1 liter V6 handles smooth and is excellent for traveling and fun in the sun. I would recommend this beautiful car to any one who is interested in many luxury and reliability options.