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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  Awesome buy! - 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
  By rsharp - February 24 - 12:19 am

  I enjoy this vehicle. I traded 97 Benz and 02 Jag. Ride is comparable. Look is acceptable. Interior is very nice. Compartments are everywhere. The power is lacking, but not noticeable most of the time. Gas is cheaper. Overall, this is an awesome buy!

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  You Get What You Pay For - 2007 Chevrolet Malibu
  By rtmack - February 15 - 11:45 am

  I bought this car because I wanted a 4- door car with good gas mileage. I didnt expect too much. Im satisfied with the car. There is a rattle around the passenger dash/firewall. It is pretty much constant. There is another rattle around 45mph that seems to come from under the car. Other people have reported these rattles.

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  Fun-Tastic - 2007 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Vanna - February 6 - 7:42 pm

  I really enjoy driving this car, its roomy (my tall family members can sit comfortably in the back), the seats are comfortable and it handles EXCELLENTLY on snowy MT roads, although unlike 4/AWD cars, I am unable to stop on snowy/ice covered hills. I had test driven other higher- end Malibus, but this was the only one that didnt have the weird rattley windshield that the others had. The interior is a little plain, but the car is very affordable and is perfect for young adults. Despite it having a small engine, it is still a pretty zippy car. If youre looking for a basic, safe, easy, & fun to drive car, the Malibu is a great choice.

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  Think Twice Before Buying - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By my 2nd malibu - January 28 - 7:52 pm

  I have owned my malibu for approx. three years. I was very disappointed at the fact that I have had my car in the shop for the same problem three times with service techs not knowing what was wrong with the car. I have also had to replace every single exterior light on my car, even the L.E.D. break light that was supposed to never go out. Its sad to say that the previous malibu I owned a 99 model has never had any problems and continues to run great.

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  One of Two Best Cars Ive Ever Owned - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Ann - January 22 - 1:41 pm

  Ive owned five cars. One of them a Honda Accord (bought new. It was a miserable lemon.) This is one of the two best cars Ive ever owned (other was an Olds Cutlass Supreme). Reliable, runs great, no big maintenance or performance issues. Not as stylish as Id like, but I got features I never dreamed Id have on a car. Including: remote engine ignition (Ive never scrapped ice off the windshield / I can get in a warm car on a 12-degree morning), OnStar (excellent response time and personnel for flat tire / dead battery), great gas mileage, comfortable seats, great brakes, satellite radio, exact temperature control. Would buy another Malibu if I needed a new car.

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  Not the best, not the worst - 2002 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Alma - January 20 - 12:08 am

  Ive had the car for almost three years. It gets very great gas mileage, usually around 25-27 with city/highway mix. The brakes usually need changed every year, and still are not the greatest. If you have the money, upgrade to drilled rotors and yellow stuff brake pads. Ive replaced alot of minor things, but nothing major. The seats are comfy, but the cloth is made cheap. The car has a good amount of horses, for a V6, and the gas pedal is very touchy. This car handles very well on wet/icy/snowy roads. The car has enough room to fit 4 friends comfy.

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  Love the car but dissappointment sets in - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By tilson - January 16 - 7:29 am

  I love my car! Its a joy to drive. But at 55,000 miles I am having repetitive problems. Spent approx $1400 in repairs due the warranty is out in 2 years due to my required mileage. It is in the shop for the 3rd time for the same repairs. Traction service light keeps coming on, auto door lock failure, brake lights keep coming on when I am not pushing the brakes!! I have maintained this car with schedule maint. We keep our cars 10 or more years and have driven them in excess of 300,000 miles. Sadly I dont think this one will last 100,000. Repairs are expensive at the dealership. I am so disappointed. But do note that we also own a 2006 Silverado Truck and it has been a great vehicle!!

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  Unfortunate Misconception - 2001 Chevrolet Malibu
  By undone - January 15 - 1:03 pm

  Decent car with good engine. Unfortunately the theft system is a definite problem. I have had to replace the intake timing gaskets and am looking to replace the head gaskets. The cooling system has problems operating with the Dex-cool additive that is recommended under warranty. Decent gas mileage 22-27mpg mixed. I cannot say that I will buy this model again.

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  excellent crash safety - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
  By carbanks1 - January 9 - 4:42 pm

  I had my chevy malibu for only 3 days when I was involved in a head on collision at highway speed. I was able to correct the skid almost completely before I realized the cruise was still set at 65mph. I tapped the brake to deactivate it, which caused the car to spin into the other lane of traffic. I was hit head on by another car with no injury at all whatsoever (I didnt even get whiplash). The airbags didnt go off, which was probably a good thing in my case. Although the car was totaled, I was safe.

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  Cute, but glad I got the warranty - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By TheGirlWithTheMalibu - January 2 - 8:17 pm

  I researched for about two months before purchasing my 2004 Chevy Malibu. I found the Malibu to be the best fit for me, a traveling college bound student. The car its self handles very well and I always have fun driving it. The fuel economy isnt the greatest, at 23 mpg, but not worth complaining about. Shortly after I bought it, I realized the windshield wiper fluid didnt work when the button was pushed and the seat didnt work. Im having issues with it starting slowly. Although Im not sure if this is do to the car, or the Cleveland cold weather. My sister got stuck in the passenger side because the door wouldnt open from the inside. Great car, but Im glad I got the warranty.