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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  Drivers seat uncomfortable - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Ligor Manushi - December 31 - 6:12 am

  After 4500 miles I gave the car to my niece. I started having hip pain due to the drivers seat relationship to the gas and break pedal. The break pedal needs to move 2" to the right. The seat is uncomfortable and needs another 2-3" of foam. I ended up getting a 2016 altima and the hip pain took almost two weeks to go away; the seats are so comfortable. What a difference. Yes the Malibu does drive incrementally better and has better steering feel, but its not worth the passion and discomfort. I test drive over 20 cars trying to make sure I would not end up with the issue of the break pedal to seat ergonomic nightmare of the Malibu. It was between a used 5 series with the sports package seats (the base seats are not any better than those on the Malibu) or the Altima. For some reason I found that most new cars have moved the break pedal towards the left! Huge mistake. -------------- Make sure you take a 30 minute drive in it. the front drivers seat is uncomfortable. I went from a 2013 Altima to the 2016 Malibu and i miss my Altimas seats so much. these are next to the worst front seats Ive ever experienced. almost as bad as the 1998 Geo Prizm. what a mistake. im going to lose some money to get out of it before i even even make a payment for the car. while the steering tilts and telescopes the seat location, steering location and brake pedal are not tying in to my body. i am 59" 168lbs. for 286 miles of driving and i still can not locate a seating position that is comfortable for me. the real reason is the bottom cushion which is too thin and points upwards for some reason at the edge, and they are too short. it is almost like they went for good interior materials and design, but took the money from the seats. I would trade hard plastic for good seats without a second thought.

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  Lots of money in repairs - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Angryowner - December 26 - 4:24 pm

  Purchased at decent price with rebates. Glad I bought the extended warranty from 36 month to 5 yr or 75k miles cause fuel pump quit= $900 , water pump-head gasket=$900 all happened under warranty. Now at 91k miles needs a complete new head. Stripped rocker arm bolt out of head and have no idea why. Will cost me $1,500. 48 year old woman drives this car easy, and I kept it serviced with care. This will turn me away and I will buy a foreign car made here in America next time.

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  Malibu not a Threat to Honda or Toyota - 2007 Chevrolet Malibu
  By company car - November 4 - 4:27 pm

  This company car is poorly designed.Door hinges cheap, front end replaced in 38,00 miles as was the a/c compressor, rotors, and wiper mechanism. There is a flutter in the a/c vent that no one can explain and is noisy. Others with our company have similiar problems so this is not a one caro thing. Also pwer steering problems with some

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  Beware - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By dave - November 3 - 9:39 pm

  Replaced manifold gaskets twice due to coolant leaks - understand a class action suit is being considered. Alternator replaced. Engine light signals camshaft clearance issue. Rust under the gas cap - mentioned by other 1998-2000 Malibu owners. Ask aftermarket companies what some of the best selling brake rotors and struts fit.

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  Pretty Good - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By scooter1 - November 2 - 12:50 pm

  Car now has 90K miles on it. The car is reliable and has never broken down on me. Gas mileage is pretty good. Responsive car. OK to drive. Had brake problems in the early year. I replaced the rotors with quality rotors and replaced both wheel bearings. Since those replacements, I have not had problems with the rotors or stopping power. Dont use lifetime pads on this car. At 70K miles I replaced the intake manifold gasket. THis is the only major repair.

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  Good Daily Driver V-6 - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Brett - October 11 - 9:30 am

  My wife bought this car when it was a year and a half old w/ 30,000 mile (Program car). It currently has 131,000 on it. Car has been suprisingly reliable. Only problems have been the brakes (replaced twice), ignition switch cyl. (PASS key/Anti- theft problem $200), intake manifold gasket leaking (well known problem w/ GM V-6s $600), A/C switch in dash panel will turn off/on while driving ($200), gas gauge is inaccurate (will read good till half tank then when turning a corner will peg out to empty). Other than these problems this has been an excellent car. Spending a $1,000 for 100,000 miles is not that bad to maintain a car that gets about 26 MPG HWY still w/ a V-6.

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  Keep Away - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Frantz - September 25 - 10:00 am

  Full rotor replacement at my expense at 14,000 miles qith dealer offering to pay half then backing out.Only paid half by going to Tuffy instead of dealer and Tuffy warranteed product.Replaced valves at about 24,000, then whole engine at 26,000, constant electrical problems and ZERO help from GM or from dealer.These cars are a natural citrus product, good for lemonade!

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  Okay car - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By crazychemist78 - September 3 - 12:00 am

  We bought our 99 Malibu used. It handled fairly well, not at all as you would expect for its size. Since then, it has had new brakes 2x, has a perpetual coolant leak and constant electrical problems. The fuel gauge no longer works, two relays have gone out, the HVAC controller died, the blower resistor burnt out taking the blower with it. The windows work when they want to. The factory CD/cassette players no longer work. Not much power for a V6 (I could out-accelerate it in my 4cyl 5spd Kia Sephia.) Smooth ride. When the windows are rolled down hot air comes up through the floor. Have since bought a 2002 Malibu which has been a dream, so it could have just been this particular car or year.

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  2 redeeming qualities - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Rambler - August 9 - 2:46 pm

  The only reason we purchased this car was to tow behind our Class A motorhome. The Malibu is one of only a few cars with automatic transmission that can be towed without expensive modifications. The build quality being a GM product is questionable at best of course. Not much acceleration. A mundane "bread and butter" auto.

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  Nice Looking - Citrus Malibu - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By guacamayas - August 1 - 2:00 am

  Done several long trips and the car has performed good. Braking in the city and under rain is a pain, I feel the car is going to loose a brake pad or is not going to stop at all! Even I took it to the dealer for revision, it makes annoying sounds and bumps (ABS seems to be out of sync). On parking driveways where the road has different levels for water drain I can hear noises everywhere in the car, it seems is going to crack.