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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  The first lemon I ever bought - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By dbk - December 8 - 2:00 am

  This car was beautiful to look at it drove well at first. THe PROBLEMS: electrical system problem brakes power windows the car overheated --- and with the electrical system acting weird gauges did not work the car ran hot rebuild the manifold fam jerryrigged so it would not run hot again replace the struts

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  Highway driving - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By John & Sue - December 7 - 2:00 am

  Basically we stole the car when buying it. I got such a good deal (in my opinion) that even though I wasnt looking for another car we just couldnt pass it up. Its enjoyable to drive but attention has to be paid to handling on the highway, it handles well in city driving but the steering is way too tight for the highway. Not a good highway car for a person who while driving may do things that could take their attention off the road even for 1/2 second.

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  Looking Back.... - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By 4carowner - December 7 - 2:00 am

  I have a 99 LS that is identical to the 03s. With 60k miles I have to say it has been a good car. Initial problems with brakes and tires have been fixed. Only other problem is a short in AC switch & alternator failed at 45k. There are only 2 ways to buy the Malibu. First use rebates, GM card promotions and Insist on Invoice price. Second is to find one 2 yrs old and pay half price since resale value is horrible. Right now in SE Region there is 3000 rebate plus 1500 bonus cash and they are clearing out the 03s left for the improved 04 version. With GM card savings you can get it for 6-8000 under invoice!!!

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  great - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By john adams - December 7 - 2:00 am

  i realy love this vihicle and i am in the army it gets me everywhere i need to go and more.

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  Its Great - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Gary Weiss - December 5 - 10:00 am

  After 26 months I have, 47,500 miles on it. It has been on many trips and other stuff and is great. At 30K I had to put new front breaks, otherwise perfect. The radio speakers are starting to have problems but thats minor.Its great but it.

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  evaluation of malibu - 2001 Chevrolet Malibu
  By john park - December 4 - 2:00 am

  good value for the money. Should provide a stronger battery from the factory.

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  Money Pit! - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By EBrown - December 3 - 2:00 am

  Have to keep pouring money into this car although it has only 60,000 miles and is taken to a Chevy dealer for repairs. Tires, battery, alternator, ABS, steering column all worked on or replaced! AC switch doesnt work right and brakes squeak. I cant trade the car in fast in enough for a foreigh car-- the Malibu is stalling now and will be taken in again for repairs! This car is too expensive for me and causes to much stress.

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  I love this car!! - 2002 Chevrolet Malibu
  By itsgeetee - December 3 - 2:00 am

  I have had my Malibu for 18 months now and I love it. I have all the options expect the engine heating block and the gold package, and I have not had any problems. It is fun to drive and very comfortable.

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  Detroit Got It Right - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By volkshater - December 3 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this car as a replacement for my everyday car. I was surprised by its ride and features. It has a great trunk and spacious seating. I feel comfortable and secure at highway speeds. I think it speaks well for Detroit that they can get some things right for a change.

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  I cant belive my eyes - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By HipHipHoray! - December 1 - 2:00 am

  When I totaled my Volvo S60 i needed to get a car fast. and it had to be satisfying yet inexspensive it also had to be around the size of the S60. found the 04 malibu. I was surprised by the Malibus performance..its ride is very great and it gives me that secure feeling...its engine is very responsive. My son usually takes the car out and goes driving around with his cousin and friends, he loves it. It has that sleek yet muscular design that the s60 got. The interior is quiet and simple..If your looking for a car..this is it..its a bargan priced Euro or Import and is just as good and the V6 is priced lower that some competetors I4!