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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  Undecided - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Rebecca - February 21 - 5:12 pm

  I liked my Malibu, the interior was nice, roomy, and comfortable. The engine was built poorly, about a year after I had it, I had to fix an oil leak, my head gasket caught on fire, water pump broke, replaced roters, fix electrical wiring, fix gas pedal (sticking), idled high, very poor on gas, and made a clinking noise. Although with all my problems if the engine was built better I would buy another. I got into a really bad car accident and totaled the body work on the car. My engine, a passanger, and I came out with out a scratch. As for saftey this car is most reliable, as for engine wise, junk!

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  An Average Car for average people - 2001 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Julia - January 28 - 5:27 pm

  Thank God for the extended warranty. I have owned this car for 3 years, and in that time, its felt like packing marbles in a corner trying to keep this car from falling apart. I had to get the door welded on after the hinge failed, completely replaced the started, heater blowers, and control switch, rusted out far sooner than expected. The window/power locks panel is still hanging on by its wires, and the dealer cant really do much about it (been in to be fixed twice). The turn signal indicators stopped working. Im very surprised at how much its value has dropped since buying it. Why spend 23K on a car that wont last half as long as an accord or civic for the same price...

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  For the price, at least you get size - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
  By SccaBrian - December 26 - 12:10 pm

  Ok, the numbers may look a bit harsh, but has anyone considered an alternative? Theres the Ford Fusion and the Hyundai Sonata. This car is not a bad one, but for the 17,000 dollar price tag, there are many better options out there. The ride quality on the Malibu is great, but the suspension is so soft that the car wobbles in the wind and on the highway. The 4cyl engine is very loud, which can make you think youre going fast, until you check the speedometer that is. Within 6k miles, the dome light stopped working (the switch went bad) and the drivers side sun visor fell off. This is a car best left for hardcore Chevy enthusiasts. Unless you can find one at a huge discount, dont even bother

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  Big disappointed GM fan - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By markchevugh - November 30 - 2:00 am

  Bought with 0 miles. Car ran great for 30000 miles then fell apart. Tires at 28000, windshield wiper motor ($300) computer ($1000), 2 weeks in the shop, a/c on/off as it wants, dealer that cant figure out what is wrong, now the transmission is acting up big time - wont shift out of 4th. Did I mention poor resale value? Looks like Christmas with all the warning lights on my dash....

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  Never buying a Chevrolet AGAIN! - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By WantinANewCarNOW - November 5 - 4:17 pm

  This was my 1st car. I got it as a college graduation gift. I saw it on the lot and test drove it and fell in love with it (think it was the sunroof and the cheesy woodgrain). A year later, I wish I would have left it there! Its been problem after problem! At first, it was the brakes. Then it was the hazard/signal lights which have their own mind. Now, its the intake gasket problem that is going to cost a MIN of $1000! And the value of the car has went down tremendously. I am seriously about to trade this car in for an Acura RSX or a Honda Accord or something--- anything but a Chevrolet!

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  3.1 L V-6 Disaster for GM - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By 3.1 L V-6 Disaster - October 14 - 3:09 am

  Bought car new in 1998. Many repairs right from start. Fuel injectors, AC switch,4 Break pads, alternater, Lower manifold gasket ($650), more fuel injectors, purge valve, fuel pressure regulator, trottle control valve.GM should junk this motor before it drives them and me into bankrupcy. My next car will be foreign like my friends who laugh at me. I have 63000 miles

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  One bad buy - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By fishguy - September 5 - 5:28 pm

  Bought this car as a manager model with 2000+ miles. I dont know how a car can be built in this day that has such lousy brakes?! How can GM not know how to make brakes?! This car is loud and scratches with every bump. It has simply been one of the worst buys of my life time and Chevy will not see my money when I make my next purchase.

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  Wouldnt buy a Chevrolet - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Denise Cagle - August 10 - 12:35 pm

  I purchased my Malibu 3 years ago. I have not been happy at all. The first 2 weeks I had a flat tire. The next 3 months I broke down at a dealership and had to get an alternator and battery. Cost $587.00. I have had problems after problems. I just put 3 gaskets on in Feb of this year because I broke down on the road and the car overheated. I had someone that could do the work. NOT! Now 6 months later I have to get 3 new gaskets put on as the mechanic said he could fix it. That was $580.00 in February of 2005 and now I need new gaskets for $470.00. I just put on 2 new tires and had a vacuum leak because of these 3 gaskets. I spent $650.00 in July 2005. At the dealer they want to sell me a new car.

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  Cheap - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Rick - August 1 - 1:27 am

  I bought it new, and have only put 20k miles on it in over 2 years. A wheel bearing went bad at 8k miles. The stereo stopped working at 13k, the horn stopped working at 18k, engine belt had to be replaced at 20k. Brakes are shot now at 20k, tires are wearing pretty badly as well, and nope, I dont do any jerky driving or high speed turns. I also get random weird vibrations and noises. i have noticed tiny spots of rust forming on the roof and trunk. The rust is under the trunk lid as well, so Im wondering what is going on there. The car feels cheap in general, but I think I would have gotten my moneys worth if it werent for these annoying problems. Im afraid of many more problems happening after the warranty is up.

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  Value - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By ssful - July 30 - 1:30 pm

  Ive been most pleased with my 2004 Malibu. It suits my needs, safely getting me to the grocery store, and not breaking the bank on providing transportation. I feel this is an excellent choice for a student driver, or small family, or elderly person who is not looking for all the bells and whistles, but reliable transportation with the safety of a midsize. I extensively shopped, and only the Malibu and Galant were priced within my range .I purchased a demo with low mileage fully equipped, with two years of remaining warranty and paid under $10k. My only complaint is the seat adjustment handle is of such inferior plastic, I fear that it will break off every time I have to readjust.