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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  2LTZ Pride - 2015 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Dan - October 11 - 10:10 am

  I love this car. There is a lot of technology built into this and I feel comfortable with all the safety features. I have the 19" wheels and all the options offered. The turbo engine pulls hard, even at highway speeds. My wife and I take this LTZ on trips, transported our 65in flat screen perfectly, hauled groceries, kept teenagers happy with the wifi, and yet the neighbors think it looks like a BMW.

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  This car will suprise you! - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By plattsfire1 - October 9 - 2:58 pm

  I was looking for a vehicle that got better gas mileage than my old Ranger, and ended up with so much more. This car has a great interior with very comfortable seats. It handles great on the road, but the electronic power steering is almost too good. You have to pay extra attention to avoid accidental drift. The extra amenities that come standard are incredible. Im 64", so the power adjustable pedals and telescoping steering wheel are GREAT. And I was absolutely shocked at the acceleration. When you put your foot down, this car goes. And when other cars tend to whine out, this car just keeps going. So fast in fact, that when accelerating out of turns you must really be on your toes.

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  My New Malibu - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
  By shebraatz - October 9 - 1:29 am

  I went from an SUV to a sedan primarily for mpg increase. I hadnt owned a "car" for 10 years. This vehicle is a pleasure to drive and only going to the gas station half as often is a nice break. Itll be interesting to see how much I like it once the winter roads start appearing and I have Front Wheel drive instead of 4 Wheel drive.

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  Chevy Malibu is a must have! - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By mrs_mcgraw2004 - October 6 - 5:32 pm

  I purchased my 2003 Chevy Malibu early 2005 and it has been the best purchase ever! I love everything the car has to offer from electric start to super fast acceleration. I would definitely buy another one in the future. Oh yeah, And the XM satellite radio factory installed is excellent.

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  Str8ups - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Str8ups - October 4 - 11:44 am

  This car to date is a smooth ride, comfortable, sleek, and a good buy. It is a car that many are asking about. My last car was a Cavalier. The Cavalier is a good car as well. I had it 10 years and it is still in good working order. I hope the testament of the Cavalier is a indicator of what to expect of the Malibu.

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  2001 Malibu - 2001 Chevrolet Malibu
  By jibeho - October 4 - 2:17 am

  Many small problems as stated in previous reviews. Also had MAJOR problems around 50K. Starter failed, Intake manifold gasket failed, and then the engine failed. Even the key fob is poorly designed because you can easily set off the car alarm accidentally. Overall, the 2001 Malibu is a very unsatisfactory car ownership experience. The rapid depreciation tells the story quite well, because the free market effectively values the car for what it is worth (not much). I could not recommend a Malibu to anybody, and will be buying a Japanese or Korean brand next time around.

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  Bad Motor - 2001 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Robert Clarke& T.Bev - September 29 - 7:18 pm

  Motor problems before 3 year warrenty ran out. Motor had to be rebuilt. GM picked up the tab completely with a rental car for use while being done.GM gave a three tear or 75,000 mile warrenty on the rebuilt motor.Nice to do business with and happy with the results

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  Best Chevrolet Product Ever - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By BillP - September 28 - 10:03 pm

  I purchased this car just over a month ago. I absolutely love this car. Ive been a Chevy fan a long time, but admit in 2005 I strayed and bought a new Honda because Chevy at that time didnt provide what I believed to be a quality product in a car. This car is absolutely one of the best handling, best looking, best built cars Ive ever driven. I have the 2.4 cylinder, but the performance is as if a 6 cylinder is under the hood! It is so quiet, sometimes I cant believe its running. I love the looks of the instrument cluster, very nostalgic. I love driving the car and have to literally pry it away from the wife to do so, since its her car. I am glad I came back to Chevrolet.

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  Junk1 - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Eric Herbst - September 27 - 10:12 pm

  Plan on replacing brakes and rotors every 22-24000 miles. Roughly $90, if you do it yourself. Lower intake manifold gasket went at 44,000 miles. I have found this is quite common, and look forward to replacing it at least once more before I can get rid of the car. If you are not a mechanic or know a good friend as one, expect to pay between $700-$1100. This will occur roughly every 40-50,000 miles. If you do not catch it in time, your engine will cease to run. Rear window motor is failing. It will roll down, but fails to travel back up. If you are considering purchasing a 97-2003 Malibu, I highly recommend against it. Perhaps you should buy a Ford Edsel instead.

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  New Malibu - First Impressions - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By MIScouter - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Purchased this vehicle last week and have put about 250 miles on the odometer. Chevrolet may have a winner here. Havent considered a Chevy in 22 years, but it stacked up well against the VW Passat, Honda Accord, and Mazda6 that we also considered. Pushrod V6 provides plenty of power (200 HP) and lots of torque (220 ftlb). Loaded with useful features and plenty of room (101 cu ft EPA passenger space). Averaging over 22 MPG in mostly city driving so far. Chevys attempt at a "manu-matic" shift lever needs work. 4th gear cannot be selected in manual mode.