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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  Reliable - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By KellyG - September 5 - 10:00 am

  I have enjoyed my experience with the Malibu so far. Its affordable and reliable. I have been looking for another vehicle for the past couple of months but because the Malibu doesnt hold its value I am upside down on it. So, I will be stuck with it for a while. I would recommend this car but only if one can get it at a real good price, since it depreciates quickly.

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  okay car - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By chiefret - September 5 - 2:00 am

  Bought it new. Brakes & rotors have been changed twice. They almost stop working!! AC is marginal on very hot days & has quit working while on vacation in Florida. Dash lights sometimes do not work properly. Its pretty good for trips but have misgivings about reliablity.

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  Its Mine!! - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By rainey407 - September 5 - 2:00 am

  I had no idea what a Malibu was until we bought ours. Bought it in February 2000 and took it to dealership for 1st time in August 2003. Short in A/C fan and something with the strut on left side. Perfect otherwise! Get lots of compliments on it. Great handling.

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  Leased a 2016 LS Malibu Silver Color - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Guy - September 4 - 11:05 am

  Its a giant car so if will probably meet your space needs. I think I got an amazing deal. I would have had to pay the same amount for a leasing a corolla but with a low residual. I think its too big for a single guy like me but I its way more comfy than the compact sedans I test drove. I liked the ride and apple carplay and guided rearview camera is cool. Keyless entry Yes Please. Push Start button. Apple car play is amazing. It comes with onstar so I can have wifi within car, locate my car from my phone and even lock it. If your car has remote start it will let you do it from your phone as well. I will not end up continuing onstar because I am usually driving it alone and my phone internet is enough. The nice thing is the tech stuff comes with all trims but since its LS the interior doesnt come bells and whistles but its better than the basic trim of most (non luxury) compact sedans. Edmunds is right about the screen getting stains. Acceleration is not mind blowing in the start but does get the job done. You are not going to win races but you are not going to feel that its underpowered either. Mileage is not phenomenal but its not a deal breaker either. I was nervous about the start and stop but it never bothered me at all. I am single and fresh out of grad school and got this as my first car. My only regret is that I shouldnt have gotten this nice of a car but I think price wise it made a lot of sense. Its quite and handles bumpy road well. I had no trouble in acceleration at high speeds. Me and my sister went on a long trip and loved it. I love the looks of ford fusion but not a fan of how they their price and interior that comes with base trims. My personal opinion is that the interior of Malibu is a lot better than fusion interior and I love the infotainment (Did I mention carplay). I got compliments for the exterior so yeah I would definitely recommend it. If you can afford I would definitely recommend do get safety features like blind spot because the pillars are kind of thick.

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  Has some good traits and some bad traits - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Ken - September 3 - 4:22 pm

  I have a lease for a 2016 Chevy Malibu LT1. There are some nice things about the car that I like, but there are quite a few areas that need improvement. First the good points: 1) The style of the car is very sharp. 2) The 1.5 liter turbo engine is surprisingly pretty good on acceleration. 3) The interior looks like a high-end luxury car with a few exceptions (see bad points). Next, the bad points: 1) The 7" Infotainment system is severely limited in that it does not provide a hands-free voice command interface to my smartphone over bluetooth. Instead, you have to use the touch-screen to make phone calls or play music via bluetooth. 2) There are hardly any storage compartments for things like sunglasses, coins, etc. The only storage compartments are on the doors, in the armrest and in the glove box. I have driven other cars that have change-holders, sunglasses holders, and other various storage compartments that are more convenient than what the Malibu provides. 3) The AutoStop feature can be annoying at times. It shuts the engine off too quickly when easing to a stop, especially if you are using the brake to ease forward into a parking space or the garage.

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  Its about time - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Adam - September 1 - 7:23 am

  I work for a fleet leasing company and have driven many domestic and foreign vehicles.In most cases the Japanese vehicles out drive and out last most domestic vehicles.In recent years Ive seen Ford put together some quality products Fusion, Taurus. Now GM is following suit with the new Malibu. Build quility is definitely above the Camry and design is also well ahead of most competition.If one thing stands out its how quiet the cabin is. The 6 cylinder engine is smooth and powerful and the paddle shifters work well holding gears without the kicking down in most cases.Interior room is good still a little smaller inside than Fusion or Camry however much nicer layout. All and all nice car

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  Run Away!!!!!!!! - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Stay away !!!!!! - August 31 - 2:00 am

  Stay away from this one!!!!!! What is the deal with the squeak up front when driving over 35 mph? The AC switch has been replaced twice ($300/ea). The drivers side auto window will not work (Ive had this repaired twice and need to again, but at $350 a pop, who can afford it again?) Struts replaced at 60K miles $500 one month after I paid the car off, Brakes replaced twice. I currently need a whole new ABS system and will need a new steering column soon! I just hope I can get rid of it without having to pay someone to take it!

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  A Winner So Far - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By GaryinNC - August 30 - 9:56 am

  Had the car for about a month and so far so good. Traded in a TrailBlazer and getting good returns as far as better mileage. 1LT with sunroof and power convenience package, Sandstone color - very sharp! Smooth ride, quiet engine, decent mileage so far (22-25 mpg in mixed driving). Eye-catching interior and every feature you might need. Also looked at Sonata and Altima and this was the best choice for me. Only minuses so far are turning radius (seems like the TrailBlazer could turn tighter), no rear seat armrest, and small trunk opening. Im 62" and it took a little while to find a comfortable seat postion but no compaints now.

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  New Chevrolet Malibu LT - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By t34 pilot - August 27 - 10:00 am

  This car is great - the seats are beautiful. Fuel economy for the power is better than my 4cyl - especially on the highway! Took a while, but now I really like the look of the car. Mine is white w/neutral leather interior. Nice! Problems are lots of little rattles which drive me nuts. Wish the car had more "status". Starting to see some base models as rental. Chev should only use the "Classic" as rentals to elevate this models status. Overall an extremely good value, content & performance, & reliability for the buck!

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  I guess Im one of the lucky ones! - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By gp21dlr - August 26 - 2:00 am

  Either the previous owner fixed all the numerous problems other owners have experienced or I got the "CHERRY" and not the "LEMON"! I bought it used with 49.5 miles and NO(knock on wood) problems yet. Its been 14 months and 13K. My first GM car and just looking for a car to go from point a to B. To me its a basic transportation car and nothing much to brag about.