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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  This is one great car and great price - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By jim moline - July 8 - 4:00 pm

  We have had minivans, Envoys and trucks so it was time to get a car as the family is leaving the nest. We almost purchased a CTS but then saw the Malibu drove it and then ordered one. Ours is black with black and brick interior and everyone that rides in the car loves it. It is fun just to get into it and drive. The mileage is almost 24 combined city and highway. If you are thinking of any mid sized car you better give this a look because I dont think there is a better car for the money.

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  best bang for the buck!!!! - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By joseph ciaccio - July 8 - 2:00 am

  good pick up a firm ride

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  Crappy Car - 1997 Chevrolet Malibu
  By katmay - July 7 - 2:00 am

  Bought this car for what I thought was a deal at 4,000.00. In the past month have had to replace brakes, rotors, wheel bearings (twice), tire rod, and left front axel. All at only 79,000 miles. This car is junk, all I have to say is never buy american made cars and never buy as is.

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  Premier Model: Everything excellent but mileage - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
  By steve - July 6 - 10:14 am

  Are you ready to go back to the 1960s gas guzzlers? Then the Premier model is for you with the big engine (as is the next lower model when equipped with the big engine). After three months and about 1100 miles, almost all city driving, we have never had better than 14 mpg except for once when it went up almost to 16, though that tank included some freeway driving. The car seems to do quite well mileage-wise on the freeway, in the higher twenties. I have no idea how the EPA or GM came up with the 22 estimated MPG for city driving. AND THE CAR REQUIRES PREMIUM to get such lousy mileage. I was concerned about the low estimated mileage but never considered the possibility of getting such low mileage. The car is quite comfortable to drive and it handles and shifts well. The smaller engine is way underpowered (even for me who also drives a Prius so I am no power hungry person), which is why we got the bigger engine. I RECOMMEND AGAINST BUYING THIS CAR. One other note, the infotainment system is quite difficult to use and program. For EACH drivers phone, you need to program it for when that phone is not in the car, when that is connected to the infotainment system solely by blue-tooth and not by a cable connection, and when it is connected via a cable such that Car Play (or Android Play) is activated. And there are different commands and options depending on these three different situations, none of which are explained in the manuals. This includes two different navigation systems (the cars own system or the one from Apple or your Android phone). Many of your presets will be grayed out if they were programmed for a different phone or different usage pattern, We are computer and tech savvy people but find it difficult to use except for the most basic tasks. And the manual is not helpful.

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  Love my malibu - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Heather Hermans - July 1 - 9:30 am

  The car has saved me so much in gas! Traded in my GMC Terrain which was rated at 32 MPG which I was lucky to get 23 MPG mostly highway miles. I can actually get 35 MPG with my Malibu. Its a smooth quiet ride ! Would definitely recommend it to anyone! Feels like a full size family car so much room inside and in the trunk.

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  98 Malibu LS - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Memsec - June 28 - 2:00 am

  Problem with noisy Affinity tires 2 years ago. Early problems with sgueaky suspension and brakes. Good car once we got the bugs out.

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  Malibu - The car you knew GM WOULD build - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By MikeMac - June 27 - 2:00 am

  I bought my 2000 Malibu LS new in August 2000. I have had to replace the brakes and rotors on it a few times, and the brake work was covered by the dealership while under 36000. I have had some minor problems with the AC, the blower motor went and I had lost the two lowest fan speeds. I have had to replace the tires and battery. Overall, its been a dependable car and my dealership, Cloverleaf Chevrolet, has been excellent. Not sure if I would by another Malibu, but I would definately buy and get service from the same dealership again.

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  Mailbu worth the money - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Shawn555 - June 25 - 2:00 am

  For a peppy fun to drive car under 20,000 test drive a chevy mailbu. My car is silent only when you blow the doors off civcs and other punk cars cant you hear the car make noise. Also the factory sound system is very simple to use while driving. The best part is the cup holder next to the steering wheel it has already come in handy many times.

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  Quiet, Stylish, Handeling, Great Value - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By High Rollers - June 24 - 6:30 pm

  I bought this car a few weeks ago. I like the sound the doors make when it is closed - feels snug and tight. The standard safety options are great: stability control, air bags everywhere (curtain, torso, and front), traction control / abs, and OnStar. The car is quiet, corners very well, and takes bumps in amazing fashion. It is stylish, the lines are nice and the wheels/times are too cool. The seats are comfortable. The 4 cylinder engine is plenty for me. I had a Honda Civic that I traded in during the purchase of the Malibu. This car is by far superior. The Malibu rides so smoothly that I steer to the bumps and you cannot feel a thing. The Malibu is quiet too.

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  2016 Chevy Malibu practical but with some defects - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Peter Jeffrey Adams - June 18 - 3:15 am

  I obtained a 2016 Chevy Malibu hybrid in May 2016 because the hybrid model had enough total horse power to drive up hills without slowing and still get more than 40 miles per gallon. Also, the hybrid model had the advanced safety features unavailable on lower end models (e.g., forward collusion alert, rear cross traffic alert, front automatic braking and land change alert). This car is very functional, fuel efficient and environmentally friendly. The safety features are generally effective and useful. However, the car when delivered obviously had loose front seat fasteners. Later, I learned that there was a Technical Service Bulletin (# 4529773) that applied to my cars front seats because of a known manufacturing process defect. Nevertheless it took a while to get service for these fasteners and the "fix" left the drivers seat a bit loose and squeaky. After complaining. Chevrolet did provide me an extended warranty on the front seats but would not do anything about the remaining looseness or squeaking. Also, the cooling system for the hybrid unit failed after 18,000 miles, which required having the car towed to the dealer and four days without the car. Communicating with my dealer and directly to Chevrolet about the defects was not very successful or satisfying. Therefore, assure, as best you can, that the car you are purchasing has no obvious problems before you accept the car. Dont rely upon assurances that problems will be fixed promptly when the car is serviced.