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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  American Trash - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By ayoung - June 12 - 2:07 pm

  The V6 is strong but as with most American cars, it is poorly built. At 100,000 the intake manifold gasket went. I can already tell the transmission is living on borrowed time as it, like most American transmissions, cant make up its mind which gear it needs to be in. It also shifts hesitatingly. Fortunately this was a hand me down from my wifes parents and we have only had to pay for the repairs, not the car. I just wish the Americans could build something that lasts.

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  Eh... - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By princessbanana - June 8 - 4:50 pm

  This car was just ok. Purchased at 63,000 miles. Heater and air conditioner went out within first year of owning it. Tires went bald fast, needed to fill with oil every two weeks after it hit 70,000 miles. No "get up and go". Forget about good gas mileage. Needed new transmission as soon as I hit 101,000. Automatic windows work only when they want to. Back window motor went out. I put almost half as much in to this car as I paid for it. Dont count on this car lasting over 100,000 miles. Save your money. Buy a Honda or a Toyota.

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  Bigger is not necesarily better. - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By runwithsue - April 19 - 10:00 am

  I bought the Malibu because it was larger than the 1995 Cavalier and a quieter ride, but I have many more problems with the Malibu than I ever had with the Cavalier. I am at 51,000 miles and about to replace the rotors, which have warped for the second time. The air conditioner keeps switching off for no reason as does the air re-circulation. In a heavy rain, my brake lights shorted out. Im afraid I will be going a new direction for the next new vehicle.

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  Not Like my 1980 Chevy Malibu - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Bill - April 15 - 10:05 pm

  Driving and handling were no problem - excellent as a matter of fact in acceleration, braking and handling curves. Gas mileage was better in my 1980 Chevy than the 1998 one. A/C switch was the first item to go, then the blower switch. Radio reception lasted about 3yrs. Went through at least 4 or 5 brake changes and recently have been taking on water in the trunk when it rains. When driving I feel cramped in (Im only 58") - why cant Chevy make the Malibu like they use to???? My 1980 Malibu lasted for 20 years - great car!

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  2003 Chevy Malibu - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By DMS - April 5 - 12:15 pm

  Replaced front brakes and rotors at 6900 milles, again at 30,000 and again at 48,000 including replacing wheel bearings and calipers to the tune of $1200. No, I do not ride the brake! I have been told by several people that GM knows they are installing junk and the only way not to be replacing the brakes and rotors all the time is to replace the wheel bearings to correct the problem. GM should step up. Considering the size and price of the vechile, besides the brake issue, it has been dependable transportation. Mine is a basic model so it lacks in the comfort department.

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  Dont buy a Malibu - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By dont buy a malibu - March 22 - 11:30 pm

  This car has poor fuel mileage, I dont care what the specs say, and I am taking into consideration that these are usually exaggerated. I traded a 2003 Mercury Sable with 40k something miles on it, thinking i would get a bit better gas mileage with a newer vehicle, six cylinder but should be better in mileage as smaller vehicle and less weight and other factors. Darn things is eating me alive, i have decided to sell the thing and am driving my other vehicle in the mean time, a 2001 Ford Taurus (73000 miles) a larger car that is getting better mileage than this thing.

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  Nice car but... - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Dee - March 19 - 7:12 pm

  This car had 8100 miles on it when we bought it in Dec. At first we had no problems but now it makes an awful noise on right side when hitting rough road or potholes. Definitely something wrong somewhere. Also a rattle in right front door (that just started). Otherwise, its nice looking & fun to drive. Handles well on the freeway or in the city. Im not sure at this point if I would recommend this car, & doubt if we will keep it over 3 years, if that long. We had a 1995 Pontiac Grand Prix that rode better with no rattles, but it was getting too many mechanical problems. For the price we paid, this Malibu probably isnt a bad car.

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  Laundy list - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By mali"blue" - March 11 - 12:30 am

  No probs except a loose nut in the drivers side door (warranty). As soon as I hit 37,000 miles, the O2 sensor went out ($250). Since then Ive gone through 3 gas caps. The rotors and brakes were replaced at 40K, followed soon by the tires. Check engine light became a daily feature. In 2003, manifold and intake gasket went bad along with ignition coils - that was a grand. Right wheel hub bearing and A/C problem resulted in $700 bill in early 2004. Temp control switch then stopped working on 1&2. Diagnosed with weak air flow sensor. Coolant began leaking again. Alternator died ($295 with tow). Radiator hoses and coolant ($75) replaced after leak progressed. Cannot wait to trade in.

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  malibusucks - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By jlk - March 7 - 10:00 am

  This car amkes the noises and creaks that you would expect from a 10 year old vehicle. The brakes go quite often. Funny noises come from behind the dashboard and the heater and air conditioner lasted a total of 5 months on anything lower than three. It does not handle well on turns and the power steering goes quite easily. I would not suggest that you buy this car. The looks and name cover up the cheapness of this car.

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  My Faithful BU - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Bryan200k - February 23 - 3:01 pm

  I got it for the gas mileage and just the right size for me, inside and out. The seats could be more comfortable. Gas mileage, I average between 27.5 and 30 mpg. Once got 35.9 on a trip. Have recurring klunks and thunks in the suspension. Ive had the 1 & 2 setting on blower switch go out, and the AC compressor shuts down without warning. The lighter weight of the car is a curse in the wind. Some decent wind, and I have to work the wheel to keep her on the road. Other than fuel pump shutting down, the engine and transmission have been smooth, consistent and no problems, and at 146,000 miles is still running and shifting like a low-mileage car.