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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  An Underrated Mid-Size Sedan - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Andrew A. - May 3 - 2:00 am

  My wife wanted an Camry but when we priced up all the options that we wanted it was much more expensive than a comparably equipped Malibu LS. The Camry that fit into the price range of our Malibu had roll down windows and a 4-cylinder engine. I dont care how refined it is 133 horsepower is not enough to move a 3,000 pound sedan. The Malibu has a V-6 standard which is powerful enough to move this mid-size sedan. We have just over 120,000 miles on it and have only had to have normal routine maintence and the dealer service has been excellent and i will keep going back to Chevrolets.

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  think twice - 2002 Chevrolet Malibu
  By kixfix - May 1 - 2:00 am

  2002 malibu powertrain good economy good. Handling ok. Quality is not very good and other than the engine and transmison the rest of the car is falling apart!!!!!! The warranty is to short and GM does not stand behind what it builds. Biggest complaint the brakes are poorly designed and i can"t keep a set on the car. i om fixing to be on the 3rd set in 51000 miles.

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  Malibu Challenges the Imports - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Mark Davis - April 29 - 8:46 pm

  My new 2008 Malibu 2LT with the 3.6L V-6 is truly a standard-bearer for GM. I was not considering purchasing a domestic car until driving this amazing automobile. This car boasts 252 h.p. coupled with a versatile six-speed automatic that has quick, sure shifts and propels you quickly from zero to sixty. Ive owned Nissans and Hondas and this is just as solid with marked improvement in quality control, performance and materials. My wife has a BMW X-3 and 525-I and this car compares favorably to those vehicles which are twice the price. I love the XM and OnStar which only adds to the incredible value in this sports sedan. Chevy hits a home-run and levels the paying field.

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  Elegant and reliable - 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Azury Florio - April 29 - 3:07 pm

  The best design among Malibus

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  2002 malibu owner - 2002 Chevrolet Malibu
  By ELOZA - April 28 - 2:00 am

  IVE HAD MY MALIBU FOR 3 YEARS AND LOVE IT MY SISTER A 1997 MALIBU THATS WHY I BOUGHT MINE THE TIMES SHE LENT ME HERS I AUTOMATICALLY KNEW I WOULD GET ME ONE

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  Pleasantly Surprised - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Dave - April 25 - 4:40 pm

  Even though I just purchased this car a few days ago I am totally amazed. Im 58 yrs. Old and have had many new cars in my driving years. In the short time Ive had it I have never felt about a car like this Malibu. It not only looks like a more expensive car it rides like one too. Its so comfortable and quiet. It has lots of extras as standard equipment. And geez, its so quiet on the road. I actually call it my limo. Great job Chevrolet ! Oh yes, it gets great gas mileage too. I traded a 2005 corolla for this and on the average my average mileage for the corolla was 31-33 mpg. For the Malibu in similar driving Im averaging with the 4 cylinder just over 27 mpg.

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  Sorry Engine - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By okiecityguy - April 21 - 2:00 am

  I liked my Malibu. I was excited to get it. BUT...The first year I had it it had a computer malfunction. There have been a series of small things since. AC switch erratic, had to replace the alternator. Belt pully went bad. But now. Now the engine (V6) is shot! Losing coolant at an alarming rate. Needs intake gaskets! This car only has 77K miles! Sorry GM, Im out on your vehicles. My 98 Pontiac Montana (3.4L) is doing the same thing. Its in the shop now.

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  I never was a Chevy man until.... - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By 04Malibuman - April 19 - 2:00 am

  At 67 I dont have the luxury of being picky about which cars I can drive. Many auto makers both foreign and domestic seem to have forgotten the "large" market of car buyers. With a telescopic steering column and six- way power seat option I found no problems on entry and exit as well as driving comfort. When I found this car and sat in it and I thought "this is great room but how does it perform?" I was pleasantly suprised at the acceleration in this vehicle, very peppy in the 0-60 range under 8 seconds. All of that with an average fuel economy of 28mpg city/hwy, this is one of the most value minded car choices in America!

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  stuck with mine - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By cronic dissapointmen - April 10 - 2:00 am

  Ive had each of the problems everyone else had. Quickly worn brakes (x2), failed alternator, failed battery, failed tensioner, failed water pump, leaking intake gasket, failed a.c. switch, broken glove compartment latch, steering wheel finish worn off, cheap interior quality, erratic a.b.s. light and the list goes on.

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  dont buy - 1997 Chevrolet Malibu
  By tn - April 9 - 2:00 am

  this was the first car i ever financed,thought i was getting a great deal, within the first month my anti- theft system locked up, and my power window/lock switch broke. i went through 2 sets of brakes, one day it wouldnt start, had it towed to chevy dealership were it sat for 4 days i couldnt get them to look at it. my husband ended up fixing it in the parking lot himself. 1 week before i traded it the emegency brake got stuck i could still drive it but every time i pulled out it made the dinging sound. the bad part is i only owned it 1 year.