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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  breaks feel funny - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By loooser - March 24 - 2:00 am

  When i test drove the vehicle the breaks felt like the were grinding. The dealership said it was surface rust from moisture and would ware off with the first use. This happens every time it rains. I took a week vacation and when i got back it was worse than ever, it went away after a few stops. Still grinds after every use or when it sits for a period of time.

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  Car just plain sucks - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Chevy "cheap" Malibu - March 23 - 2:00 am

  oh god where to I begin. Well for one thing GM cars gotta be the cheapest looking vehicles on the road. every GM car looks the same with those cheap plastic nobs and materials. Id rather pay the extra dough for an Import that actually looks and feels good. I bought it as my first car and didnt really care for it. parents just got it for me. I "had" problems with the brakes brought it in like god knows how many times. Noisy powertrain when revving that weak 170hp. Now Im happy. I got a 2000 Maxima that really doesnt give me problems. Good engine and just a plain ol good car.

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  Lower back isses and tall, Stay AWAY!! - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Scott Rossmann - March 20 - 2:38 am

  On this model do not get it. The manual seats have this funky ratcheting lever that raises the seat. Im 62" tall and now my head hits the roof as I enter and leave the car besides my lower back is killing me due to non-existent lumbar support. The goofy auto stop feature sometimes kicks on and feels like someone just hit the rear bumper. Needs some major work. Already complained the very next business day to get the Tuff F.U. from the dealer and sales department. They dont care at all, but now since they do when my feet go numb because of their crappy seat and causes an accident, they will be held liable!

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  Good overall car. - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Carfreak189 - March 17 - 2:00 am

  We got our Malibu in March 2000, now at 60,00 miles it has not had one problem what so ever. The brakes went at that was it. The tires got replaced at 50,000. The v6 acceration is stunningly good for a 170 horsepower sedan. The space is just right, and for the most part it is comfortable. One problem the interior materials are VERY cheap. So many things have gone wrong with the interior. The door lock base broe, the emergency brake pedal cover fell off. The holder so ou wont burn yourself with the seatbelt broke. Also, the speakers blew out, and I put a better set in. All in all chevy did a good job a car with minor flaws.

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  Keeping it Real - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Huggins - March 15 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this car about 7 mounths and it has been a model of efficiency and reliability. After 175,000 on the odo, all Ive got to do is get an oil change and new brake pads. I love the acceleration of the 3.1 V6. It makes merging and flying across 4 lanes of traffic a piece of cake. Compared to my old 90 Cavalier, well, there is no comparison. Take care of it, and youll be proud of your new Malibu.

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  Good powertrain,bad attention to details - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Mike J. G. - March 11 - 2:00 am

  I bought my very basic 4-cyl. Malibu in 2/98 brand new, and had a lot of trouble initially with the warping brake rotors unitl Chevy finally put on a new set. Other problems include the infamous rear suspension creaks (which were never permanently fixed, I just got used to the noise) and the A/C switch. At 82000 miles, the 2.4L engine and transmission still perform flawlessly, which is the cars one saving grace.

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  Buy Midas Stock - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By MaliBLOWS - March 8 - 2:00 am

  The tales of the broken brakes are all too common and real. Ive had more than $700 in brake repairs. The lighter fell apart..literally breaking off like a cookie. Other pieces of the car are doing the same. Im a dealer and cant unload this thing. Worse buy yet.

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  Horrible-DO NOT BUY!!!! - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Blizz - March 6 - 2:00 am

  Ive been the owner of a 1999 Malibu for less then one year. Ive had problems with it since day 1. Ive spent over $1,500 in repairs so far. I will never by a Malibu or a Chevy as long as I live. Besides being unreliable it is not a comfortable car to drive. Its makeshift features help give the appearence of a luxury car however that presumption is quickly corrected.

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  chevy malibu - 1997 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Richard Rights - March 4 - 2:00 am

  car performs well. has not given me any trouble.

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  Not an Egg Crate - 2002 Chevrolet Malibu
  By luvmahcar - March 1 - 2:00 am

  I have 15,500 miles on my car and have not yet had any problems that other people have complained about. It is very comfortable w great speaker sounds. I bought it to make the multiple drives from Texas to Pennsylvania pleasurable, and it is. My previous car was a Cavalier which was a POS and an egg crate. I will be a repeat Malibu buyer!