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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  The clear winner in its class. - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By FINNS - February 27 - 4:40 pm

  My wife and I tested the Altima, Camry, Accord, Mazda 6, Sonata and Ford Fusion before deciding this car was the winner. Each car had its strengths and weaknesses with options and price, but for overall solid feeling ride quality, and value the Malibu beat them all, in our opinion. I had the opportunity to drive a 2008 LS rental for several months for work and thought it was great. Testing the 2009 LTZ with 6 speed transmission seemed like a different and much nicer car altogether! The interior is roomy and the cocoa/cashmere leather with wood accents is very attractive. The interior LED lighting is very soothing at night. Had strangers tell us how beautiful the car is/ask questions.

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  Good review - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By aplustech - February 21 - 2:00 am

  Nice ride,stylish,dependable,comfortable

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  Best car ever!!! - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By tonyvball - February 20 - 2:00 am

  This has been the best car I have ever had! It is fun to drive, trouble free with great fuel mileage. It looks great and is very confortable. I love driving this car and I recomend it to anyone looking to buy one. My lease will be up in July and I will get in another Malibu since it has served me so well over the years.

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  good - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By santiago - February 20 - 2:00 am

  very reliable, economic, great interior espace.

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  halfway to greatness - 2002 Chevrolet Malibu
  By DEVINU - February 20 - 2:00 am

  Great sedan that may push GM to forefront of sedan market. Reliable & affordable yet still needs major improvements in order to capture the hearts of Americans. Cant wait for redesign for 2004 and hope they fixI fix braking system (all wheel disc), electronics(my turn signals stopped working at 60k) and refine the interior/exterior. This car is an excellant value which you will need if you plan to trade-in at any point. I recently traded my 99 ls with 94k and received only 3k. I bought a 03 Accord in order to balance out the 3k in negative equity. Total cost of vehicle over loan length is what counts!

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  OK Car: Need better Warranty/Services - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Bitter Customer - February 17 - 2:00 am

  Bought new in May 1999. Horn didnt work after 2 months. Dealer take 3 days to replaced whole system, broke tilt handle during repair, so have to replace that. Steering wheel been screaking eversince. Car have no major problem for almost a year after that. Then all the problems began. Brakes screak. A/C broke and give out mildew odor. Dealer Fixed A/C and install a fan that blow automatically every 10 minutes or so when idle. Both tie rod were loose and need replacing. Both rear brakes cylinder were leaking badly. Belt buckle broke.. Plastic screws from seat fall apart. All n All, its an OK car. Would NOT buy another one though.

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  Tale of two milages before $ after 55000 - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By lparsel - February 9 - 2:00 am

  This was a wonderful car to own and drive for the first 55000 miles. I do mostly hiway miles and the car was confortable and alway 30 per gal. Then I started using the car around town. The brakes wore out in 12-15 k miles. The intake manifold gasket leaked. The ignition switch broke. Windshield wipers broke and were recalled. The brakes are just not the right size for this car. They wearout to offten.

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  A perfectly fine American alternative - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By DBINGHAM - February 7 - 2:00 am

  My wifes father and brother are GM employees, so weve had a string of leased GM vehicles, starting with a 1993 Olds Cutlass Ciera. The 2000 Malibu replaced a 97 Lumina for us and the improvement was immediately noticeable. Although a size class down from the Lumina, it was just as roomy and had a much more solid feel. Handling, ride, and road noise were all much improved. Over time, the Malibu has had its glitches. Weve had a little trouble with the electrical system the running lights dim and the heater loses strength on long trips. However, the Malibu, for the money is a dependable car and a pleasure to drive.

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  A perfectly fine American alternative - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By dbingham - February 7 - 2:00 am

  My wifes father and brother are GM employees, so weve had a string of leased GM vehicles, starting with a 1993 Olds Cutlass Ciera. The 2000 Malibu replaced a 97 Lumina for us and the improvement was immediately noticeable. Although a size class down from the Lumina, it was just as roomy and had a much more solid feel. Handling, ride, and road noise were all much improved. Over time, the Malibu has had its glitches. Weve had a little trouble with the electrical system the running lights dim and the heater loses strength on long trips. However, the Malibu, for the money is a dependable car and a pleasure to drive.

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  First couple of months. - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Big Bluebird - January 30 - 8:20 pm

  I traded my Ford F150 for this car. It hurt but the mileage on the truck was bad compared to how I used it. I used it as a car and hauled very little. I get 19 /21 in town w/the Malibu, that includes the 1000 of altitude I gain or loose on the 4 mile trip to town. The Malibu is the first car I have owned in many years. I have had no problems so far. Miss my truck but at this point would not want to get rid of the Malibu.