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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  Excellent Chevrolet - At Last - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By AndiChele66 - February 15 - 9:43 am

  I bought my new Malibu in May and I love it! I had a Chevy TrailBlazer which I also loved, but traded it for a Dodge Caliber due to gas mileage. I hated giving up my luxury of the TrailBlazer and truly missed it. After buying the Malibu, I dont miss my Blazer as much. The Malibu has a feel of luxury without the price tag. I love the looks, the handling, and the comfort. The only thing I can say I dont like about the Malibu are the blind spots, but I know theyre there and just need to be a little more careful. I would highly recommend this vehicle.

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  2006 Malibu LTZ - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
  By ktm0126 - February 14 - 3:00 pm

  Completely surprised and pleased with the performance of the 2006 LTZ. Features for the price is outstanding compared to vehicles in its class. Interior has a well defined classy look with the leather, contrary to other reviews. Handles well, with some power from the V6, and so far the gas mileage has been good.

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  My 06 Malibu SS - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
  By ladydecuir - February 12 - 10:23 pm

  Wonderfully exciting car to drive. Small gas tank, but good mileage. Excellent mileage on the highway. A real fun and sexy car driving experience!

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  2006 Malibu Sedan 6 cyl. - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
  By npillen - February 5 - 2:47 pm

  I love this car! It has a tremendous amout of room. It does have a little bit of a spacey steering, but handles great. I think it looks very sleek and overall I am totally satisified with this car!

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  very good car - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By smartgiant - February 1 - 2:00 am

  during 100,000miles, it has not major problems. Key is not any leaking from this car, no over heat.

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  Malibu LS Sedan - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By GUS - January 31 - 6:16 pm

  Interstate speed is excellent, well over 30 mpg. Very maneuverable and easy to drive as an around town car. Also, comfortable to drive at highway speed. Surprised to find that mileage at 75 mph very little less than at 55 mph. Comfortable leather upholstery and heated seats are appreciated.

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  My first new car - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Jamie - January 31 - 2:57 pm

  This is the smoothest and most quiet car I have ever driven. It is not the most fuel efficient vehicle, and overly-concious driving will still only earn you around 20 mpg... highway driving at 60 mph (on cruise control) will get you 23 or 24 mpg. The rear seats fold down to give a ton of storage space. I didnt notice any wind noise, but I have driven mostly older cars with lots of squealing and roaring. Im an aggressive driver and it handles well... though it takes a while to stop because of the vehicles weight.

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  Luxury Car and Fun to Drive - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Tony - January 29 - 2:03 pm

  The 6 speed 2.4L v4 is definitely the way to go. It has great fuel economy and is built as good as a BMW in my opinion. It is great to see that you do not need the v6 (which I had in my last car) to get the quiet ride and good acceleration. I was looking for a good family 4-door sedan that would also be fun to drive back and forth on my long commute to work (on the congested roads of NJ). Based on my budget of 20-25K, I had considered many new cars and also a low mileage BMW used car. After test driving, the Malibu was the clear winner. My wife and I were actually shocked at how smooth and quiet the ride was (though tried to keep the smiles off our faces before negotiating the price).

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  Not what I expected - 2002 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Nicole - January 28 - 11:01 pm

  When I bought my Malibu I thought I was buying a reliable American car. That is not what I got. Ever since I got the car there has been problem after problem. I am tired of repairing this vehicle and will never buy a Chevrolet again because of this.

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  An Average Car for average people - 2001 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Julia - January 28 - 5:27 pm

  Thank God for the extended warranty. I have owned this car for 3 years, and in that time, its felt like packing marbles in a corner trying to keep this car from falling apart. I had to get the door welded on after the hinge failed, completely replaced the started, heater blowers, and control switch, rusted out far sooner than expected. The window/power locks panel is still hanging on by its wires, and the dealer cant really do much about it (been in to be fixed twice). The turn signal indicators stopped working. Im very surprised at how much its value has dropped since buying it. Why spend 23K on a car that wont last half as long as an accord or civic for the same price...