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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  Never own another one - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Lee - July 9 - 2:48 am

  I bought this car new. Constant brake problems. Some electrical problems. Replaced the front wheel bearings. Fuel gauge went crazy at around 80,000 miles. Very uncomfortable for a taller person.

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  First Class - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Bill in Sumerduck - July 4 - 5:00 pm

  Chevy makes a first class sedan. Powerful, excellent handling, luxurious interior and European exterior. Ive been getting 25.5 miles per gallon using as a commuting car in heavy traffic. Really a smart looking car. I like the 18" wheels, twin exhausts, LED lights, etc. Very comfortable and the most quiet car I have ever owned.

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  GM got this one right! - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By oklahomamalibu - June 30 - 9:06 pm

  I have only had the car a week, but I am impressed! I was looking at Altima and Sonata, but when I drove the Malibu, it was no contest. I cant believe the difference between this car and the 2007. Unbelievably quiet and comfortable. Interior is very nice - as good as many cars costing much more. I have filled up twice and got 30mpg and 31mpg with mostly highway commute miles. Plenty of power for me. Exterior styling is beautiful. Clean lines, great looks, everything goes together well. With so many standard features, I couldnt believe the price. The last GM product I bought was in 1988. Im glad to see GM is back in the game - and winning the game in my opinion.

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  OK! Wouldnt buy again! - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By MJB - June 30 - 3:47 pm

  My Malibu has experienced all of the problems that are outlined below! I found out today that a leaking water pump has caused a lot of my issues with the serpentine belt and belt pulley wheels going bad not to mention the dissapearing coolant. My 1&2 fan speeds dont work either, I will have to try the resistor fix! Aside from these nagging issues the car is OK, but I would likely buy a more reliable car next time!

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  Magnificant Chevy - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Frank Bates - June 29 - 5:38 pm

  By far, my 2004 malibu is the best car I have ever owned. This is after several GM, Ford, and Honda products. At 13,000 miles, nothing is wrong, and it gets more than 30 miles per gallon on the highway.

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  best car Ive had - 2002 Chevrolet Malibu
  By mike - June 29 - 4:36 pm

  This is an outstanding car. Its never let me down. A little standard maintenance, and it runs great, handles perfectly, has real pick-up, and the control has gotten me out of scrapes other cars wouldve never gotten out of (I know Ive had a lot of cars).

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  I love my car - 2001 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Chrissy - June 29 - 3:59 pm

  I bought this car as a newlywed and still in college. It has grown with me. We have a child now, and I feel completely at ease with the performance and safety of this vehicle. My husband has suggested trading in on a newer car, but I cant stand the thought of giving up my car, even for a newer one. I love my car!

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  I got the bad apple in the barrel - 2001 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Jayme Polis - June 28 - 3:48 am

  The first fifteen days I had my malibu, it was great, then while driving down the freeway it died! Within the first year I owned it which was 2004, I had the fuel pump injection system replaced, brake booster replaced, A/C unit replaced. Somehow the battery cracked (I was not in an accident!)and leaked all among other little things.

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  My 2004 Chevy Malibu - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By USFIslandchild - June 27 - 2:00 am

  I love my 2004 Chevy Mailbu. I would suggest it to anyone who is looking to buy a midsized car. The 2003 doesnt even compare to the 2004. The car seems to have European style, feel, and comfort. I chose the LS V6 with the following options that I would recommend: side-curtain airbags and remote start (one of my favorites). Please feel free to email me if you are considering purchasing anytime soon.

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  Great Car - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Malibu Guy - June 26 - 7:21 am

  This is my third Malibu. This new version is by far the best one yet. In over a year, I only had it back to the dealer for the required state inspection. I paid 70% of the sticker price - quite a deal and car. Are there better cars? Sure, but youll pay a lot more for them. This is an excellent value for my money. I like the idea of the SS and will buy one if the price is reasonable.