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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  Exceptional Mid-Size Sedan - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Alan - October 9 - 7:26 pm

  I was an import owner for 20+ years before purchasing a Malibu. I was skeptical, even after a lot of research. But after 1500 miles, Im really amazed. GM has done a great job. The interior is incredibly quiet. The interior styling is wonderful, especially in beige with suede seats. Theres wonderful attention to detail everywhere inside. I especially like the ambient lighting. Controls and switches feel great, better than most imports Ive driven. Performance is surprisingly good given the fuel economy. The suspension is a bit soft but ride is great. The engine is as refined as any 4 cylinder Ive driven. The Malibu feels more like a luxury car than a family sedan.

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  Disappointment - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By maryt - October 9 - 2:00 am

  When first purchased, the Malibu seemed to be an okay car. After 20,000 miles, the brakes went and had to be replaced. The cassette player never worked properly even after being replaced. Then for a while everything was normal, but now with 77,000 miles on the car, the ABS and brake lights have come on. I am told that the problem is in the "modulator" and will take approximately $1,000 to repair -- time to trade but never for another malibu!

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  Dear Lord! - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By JaneLane504 - October 8 - 2:00 am

  Yes indded, breaks seem to be changed every 6,000 miles on the dot. Almost as much as an oil change! Living in Louisiana, and having a car with a A/C that seems to have a mind of its own, is nothing short of depressing. On hot days, it will kick off and blow out hot air, even when i turn it all the way on high. And even chevorlet dealerships cant ,and wont explain to me why it does this. Brakes have been replaced almost five times and rotors twice, the boots once. I have changed my altenator once, which wasnt that bad since i have over 100k miles..

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  Runs well after all those fixes.... - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By rotektwo - October 7 - 2:00 am

  After 45,000 miles, my car has all new parts... New Hazard Light switch...replaced 3x. New Battery...replaced 2x. New Front ABS Brake...Just replaced. New Air conditioner fan switch...replaced 2x. Affinity Tires...Just replaced Squeeky Suspension...Didnt replace yet. Windshield fluid chamber keeps losing fluid. Dealer couldnt find out why. I just learned the pump has a leak...Leaked when purchased. Rear brake light lenses filled with water after most recent snow. I guess thats why the rear brake lights need to be replaced often. Replaced cigarette lighter too. Replaced the plastic molding inside the trunk just under the trunklid.

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  Dont ever buy a malibu - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By sgr_girl - October 7 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my Malibu for 3 years. It started off as a good little car for me, but not too long after I started noticing problems. My A/C had broken, no air blew out on 1 and 2 and was real high on 3. I had to get the brakes done 3 times, replaced twice and fixed on the third. Not to mention theyre starting to squeak, again, luckily Im getting a new car next week. I wont ever buy a Malibu again.

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  ITS JUST OK - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Brian Builder - October 6 - 2:00 am

  I agree with all the other reviews that I have read the brakes are terrible. I have also had some additional electrical problems all of which I have seen in the other reviews. These problems are buzzing turn signal, cruise will not stay engaged, blower speed switch stopped working on 1 and 2. The factory tires are horrible I had to replace them at 27000 miles. There is a knocking sound in the engine when cold. The dealership has been great and I purchased the extended warranty so I have not spent much out of my pocket. I have recently noticed a squeak while driving, I wonder what that could be.

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  Great value - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By chevy dude - October 3 - 3:20 pm

  This car is beautiful. I cant stop looking at it. Oh yea, and it runs great too. I have an LT1 with dealer installed aftermarket heated leather seats. very comfortable.Ive taken long rides, short rides, highway, back roads, rain sleet and snow and this vehicle never ceases to impress me. The OnStar service gives unmatched piece of mind and security. Before this I had an Oldsmobile Aurora and I thought that car was the best....I was wrong.

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  Reliable Car - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Yue - October 1 - 2:00 am

  Just change oil. Never any mechanical problem. Dependable family car. It has never let me down for the past six years since I had it.

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  I Just got it - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Little K - October 1 - 2:00 am

  Well I have had the car for 1mo. And so far so good. We will see what happen in a year from now. Drive Safe and Good luck to all.

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  Great Family Car - 2001 Chevrolet Malibu
  By SFRAZIE - September 30 - 2:00 am

  This is the first car Ive owned that is bigger on the inside than it is on the outside. Five adults fit comfortably in this vehicle. There is plenty of leg room (even in the back seat). I have a single car garage that is a little on the small size, but this vehicle fits with room to spare. There are plenty of cup holders, and a large glove box. If you have small children, this is a great car because it has three anchors for car seats.