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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  Plesantly Suprised - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By JPWhite - February 13 - 1:40 am

  I traded a 5 speed Escort for a used 4 cylinder Mailubu LS. Used to a sluggish car, I was expecting more of the same, but need good mileage given the number of miles I drive and the increasing price of gas. I was also unsure if Id like the extra noise at cruise from a 4 speed auto compared to a 5-speed manual. I must say I have been impressed all round, this is NOT just another hum drum commuter car. I have rejected Malibus in the past because of engine noise. The 2004 is much better. The car handles very well indeed. The biggest suprise? Very, very quiet at 70Mph, only 2600 revs or so with power to spare. Changes gears intelligently and smoothly. I am more than pleased - great car.

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  Still in shock! - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Ami9d9s - February 12 - 2:00 am

  Just bought my Malibu. I have been an SUV driver for the past 2 years. Never thought I would be driving a car again. I saw the new Maxx and thought WOW! thats cool. Test drove the Maxx and loved it! While waiting on the saleman to do the "numbers" I saw the Malibu LS in the showroom and started to think..could this be for me? Long story short after having the salesman clean snow off of a black LS and a dark grey metallic I bought the dark grey. I love this car! No more SUV for me.

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  Love by New Malibu - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Nathan - February 11 - 8:16 pm

  I am a young married professional that just made my first "new" car purchase in Feb 2009, while upgrading from a small model car. I love this car. It is great to drive, its comfortable in the interior, everything is convenient to get to, the trunk seems huge, and I think the exterior design is amazing. This does not look like a Chevy. After owning a Honda Civic, I told myself Id never buy a domestic car again, until they started building better quality. Well, the Malibu actually answered this maxim before I thought it would. The fuel economy is just okay, but thats also coming from someone that just got out of a 97 Civic that was still getting 31mpg. I 100% recommend the Malibu.

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  Great Car - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By JiggaWhat - February 9 - 3:46 am

  Im a busy grad student and bought my Malibu for the overall value. I have leather seats (should be heated) A Sunroof, CD player, and rear spoiler. The engine has just enough pep to it to get by. However, GM did have a problem with the front rotors which i had to fix after only putting on an addition 10,000 miles from 35,000 - not fun for $300. Another flaw was the blower fan not working on settings 1 and 2 but you can replace the part yourself and it only cost 25 bucks at a parts shop. (this is a common problem with GM) Besides that no problems, so check the rotors and ask if the blower fan has been fixed and you should be in the clear. I highly recommend this car. Low Price, Great Value!!!

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  LT: Great Value - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By ejcamc - February 2 - 12:34 pm

  Had LT since Oct 04. My main concern in choosing the LT over Camry and Accord was quality. So far, my concerns were unwarranted. You get a lot more for less money than you do with Camry or Accord. Especially like ABS brakes included. Like the ability to fold front and back seats. Gas mileage is 30+ on highway. I like the styling of the car and the brushed leather seats add a nice touch of elegance.

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  97K miles and going strong - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By JNM - January 28 - 10:18 pm

  I purchased my car in 2000 w/ 27000 miles on it. I have been in two front- end accidents with this car (one being quite major). After reading the other reviews, I thought to myself that I must have the best 98 Malibu ever built. I have NEVER had anything major wrong with this car. The most I have ever had to spend in the shop at one time is $200, and that was just recently for high mileage maintence. This car has 97K miles on it now. The only reason why Im selling it is because of the mileage factor. This car has treated me very well, and I drive like a maniac!

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  I love this car!!!!! - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By eris5112337 - January 24 - 2:00 am

  I bought my malibu about three months ago and i have to say that im amazed. At first I only bought it cause it was cheep but ive realized that it was probably the best decesion that ive ever made as far as cars go.

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  Junk Car - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Y S - January 23 - 9:11 am

  My engine light turned on after 7k miles was over a month at the mechanic. and i got the customer service from GM No help no nothing

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  Great Car - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Daveroni - January 10 - 1:21 am

  Had a bad experience buying the car but loved it every since. We had problems with the rotors and pads in the beginning but that was under warranty. Then we had the fan control go out on us. Just recently we had the EGR valve go and have had a problem where the AC when it is on MAX it will all of the sudden shut down to the regular AC. But other than those we have been very happy with the car.

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  2008 Malibu, a Great American Car - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By TWCHAMBERS - January 4 - 11:50 am

  A great American Car, I own a feed store in Cullman, Al. This is my first new Chevy purchase, I looked at Pontiac, Ford, Toyota, Honda, and Nissan, as a buyer this was the most bang for the buck. What a great car for the money. It is stylish and fun to drive and gets better fuel economy than that big ole 1996 Cadillac I traded in. Chevy and GM got this one right. Good value for your dollar!