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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  First Chevy - surprising car - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By cawfebug - February 11 - 12:49 pm

  In the past I have bought mostly Ford and Hondas, but was attracted to the Bu by the styling. After driving most of the competition I thought Id try the Chevy out, and was completely surprised. 15 years ago, I never bothered test driving a GM. The interior is a pleasure to be in, seats are supportive (headrest doesnt push your head forward as do many new Fords), dashboard is simple and easy to understand. The quality of materials are excellent. The 2LT is the best value, with nice "leatherette/micro fiber" seats, and the luxurious touch of wood trim, accent interior lights. Gas mileage has been right on, and if you drive 65mph its even better. The backseat and trunk have plenty of room

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  I Love it! - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Fertt - February 3 - 7:23 pm

  This car is great looking, safe and fuel efficient... What more can you say. It has great balance on the road and makes you safe as you drive.... Thank you for the best car from chevy

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  Malibu - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By ed - January 31 - 4:51 pm

  This car is very solid. You can tell chevy put a lot of attention redesigning the new malibu inside and out. Nice quiet comfortable ride. I opt for the v6..it has plenty of power but not the fastest v6 on the road. But it does fine. Gas mileage is above average. I wasnt sold on the six speed trans at first,(seems like its always changing gears) but very fun with the paddle shifters and now Im use to it. The interior is nicely laid out, and the radio features are easy to use. Being 61 it is a little tight getting in, for whatever reason the floor board sill is raised about 2 inches, not sure really why. The only other complaint torque steer..under heavy acceleration the car sways a little.

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  WONDERFUL CAR! - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Sabrina Schuurman - January 29 - 11:42 pm

  This is a wonderful car. Until test driving this car I could never truly say that any car called my name like this one did. You know when it feels right it just feels right. Its comfy, fun to drive, and plenty of leg room in the back for those growin kids. Lots of trunk space and I can go all week on a tank of gas in town. Handles well, also has more power than I would expect for a 4 cyl. As for the style, it oozes "cool", especially the interior and the cars silhouette and rear styling. Cant find one thing wrong except my husband says he has poor visibility when driving it. I love it!!! While on the test drive the kids were like, "Yeah Mom, this one!".

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  Fun 2 Drive - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By DesiGuy - January 24 - 7:48 pm

  I love my Malibu. After 5 months of driving, I would say its as good as Camry and Accord if not better. Exterior is far better then competitors.

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  cant see! - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By jill wilson - January 19 - 10:05 pm

  i like most things about this car but Im SO frustrated with the visibility im looking for something to trade for. i cant believe the reviews for this car r so good with the visibility so bad. Im 5,boyfriend 62 and he complains about the visib. also.its hard to get in and out of and half the time the door starts to close and pushes u back into the side of car. dont like how the center air vents in dash blow harder than outside vents.i have stated confidently to friends that i WILL have a wreck in this car because i cant see. its a shame that the visib. issue outweighs all its other pluses.if you r considering this car do some serious test-driving(lots of parking and changing lanes,etc

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  Still Love It - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By VGB - January 14 - 5:38 pm

  I have owned my car for 2 years now and still love it as much as the day I drove it home. This is the first car I have bought that I havent been able to find something that I didnt like about it. I was looking at purchasing a Mercedes two years ago, but fell in love with the new design, inside and out, of the Malibu. I have had no regrets and have a lot more money left in my pocket than I would have had if I had bought a Mercedes. They really should have called it a Mali-Benz.

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  Very Happy - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Tyler - January 14 - 1:27 pm

  I didnt think I was going to get as many compliments on the car as I have, but, WOW! I have owned Mazda, and Nissan vehicles in the past and always thought that the "finish work" on the interior and exterior were better than the other Ford and GM vehicles Ive owned. This is not the case with the Malibu. By far the best vehicle Ive owned for fit and finish! The car also handles great in the Northern Wisconsin Snow and Ice. However, I enjoy the V6 power on the summer roads. There is a delay in downshifting but you learn to time the pedal. And when it goes to the floor the car moves! The gas mileage has been about right for the city driving and above average on the Highway.

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  Smooth Ride - 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Hear ya - January 3 - 12:22 pm

  Ok, I use to have a camry and have to say this Malibu rides 10X smoother over bumps! I could not believe it when I drove it. It reminds me of my old Maxim I use to have! Great car and extremely smooth ride for a 4 cyclinder!

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  Good Midsize Sedan - 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
  By John in NY - December 31 - 10:47 am

  After 3 months and about 7,000 miles I have many good things to say about the Malibu. Performance is good and I didnt see a reason to get the V6. Interior cabin noise is very low for a four cylinder and very impressive (Chevy even uses laminated driver and passenger side glass). Steering, brakes, handling, all good. Interior quality much better than previous GM models. Soft touch materials and no more shiny plastic! I came from a Honda Accord and like the Malibu better.