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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My Green Malibu - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
By Joan Graham - October 27 - 10:00 amLove this car! Have leased this model twice and have never regretted it! It handles beautifully. Very little effort to drive it. The seats are so comfortable that I could drive forever and not get weary. Thinking of purchasing it at the end of the lease term. Thanks Chevy for making such a dependable care. By the way, my husband has one also! Joan Graham
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Malibu is trash - 2001 Chevrolet Malibu
By Bryce - October 24 - 11:26 pmMore problems than words to type. Numerous electrical issues, numerous brake problems, failing intake gaskets. Never waste your money on one of these vehicles... You may save money on price of vehicle, but will spend 20 times as much on repairs.
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Deceptively Good - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
By auroura - October 23 - 5:18 pmWhen I first looked at the Malibu it seemed that it was a great deal for a fairly reliable car. Unfortuneatly, I didnt research it very well ahead of time. Since purchasing the car I have had 2 MAJOR problems. I have had the fuel manifold leak engine fluid into my oilpan and was unable to get the problem diagnosed properly until I suggested that the problem might be the manifold, and I have a big electrical problem where my turn signal somehow got crossed with my CD player and brake electronics. It was very strange because when I would put on my brakes, my turn signal would start up, or if it was already on, would skip of few blinks. Overall, be careful and make sure you get a warranty.
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Excellent car/value! Ex Accord owner - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
By TomT - October 19 - 6:55 pmMy last car was an Honda Accord which was a very good car, but too much scheduled maintenance/expensive to get repaired. Looked and drove Malibu LS and I was sold and very glad I went with it (saved some cash too!). Just turned over 10k miles today and ZERO problems/issues. Car is solid and I cannot beleive the gas mileage for a 200hp 6-cyl (ave 28.8 miles per gallon city/highway. The good old USA is back! I was very skeptical at first moving back to American cars again, but I should not be. With what is going on in the world today, Im very proud to say I have an American owned companies car! GM keep up the great work! You now have my support!
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2006 Chevy Malibu LS - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
By albert raposo - October 19 - 3:33 pmMy 2006 Malibu is a wonderful vehicle. My gripes about it are that it came with no mats and the gas gauge is of low quality. It is a very spacious style. My friends even tell me that it looks like a luxury car. I have it in the dark blue metallic color. wow! At night time it looks black, and in the shade its a dark navy blue. In the sun its a sparkly cheerful blue. My car is a 4 cylinder and it gets as much mileage as my old 2002 Nissan Sentra. For a base model, this car is loaded with features.
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Good buy. - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
By cwayne - October 16 - 10:00 amAfter driving this car for a couple weeks I feel the car is considerably under rated by the editors. Drives great, overall quiet smooth operation, brakes have excellent feel and action. The car makes driving fun again. The entire car has the quality and feel of a higher priced vehicle. A joy to drive.
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Purchased a new 2005 model - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
By Jon - October 16 - 12:51 amThe car runs great and the ride is smooth. The exterior is beautiful with a solid look and feel to it. When you open and close the doors it feels solid. The fuel economy is good for a six cylinder. The pickup is great and Im glad I bought a six cylinder over a four cylinder. The only negative I see so far is that the interior is very plain. So if you can live with a boring interior I highly recommend this car.
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I love My Chevy Malibu! - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
By Jean Hawkins - October 14 - 8:13 pmI just bought my first Chevy two weeks ago. I had Toyotas for about 20 years and then I had a Ford Ranger truck. My truck got rear ended and was in the shop. I got a rental and it happened to be a Chevy Malibu. I had it for about a week and fell in love with it. At the same time Chevy had the employee discount price going on so I decided to see if I could get one. I also got the choice of a $2000 rebate or 0% financing so I chose the 0% financing. I am thrilled with my new car.
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3.1 L V-6 Disaster for GM - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
By 3.1 L V-6 Disaster - October 14 - 3:09 amBought car new in 1998. Many repairs right from start. Fuel injectors, AC switch,4 Break pads, alternater, Lower manifold gasket ($650), more fuel injectors, purge valve, fuel pressure regulator, trottle control valve.GM should junk this motor before it drives them and me into bankrupcy. My next car will be foreign like my friends who laugh at me. I have 63000 miles
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sexy car - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
By paul caloia - October 12 - 9:02 pmi guess my only complaint would be the first 1/2 sec of take off is slugish. almost feels like the brake is on. then it goes like hell
