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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  Malibu LS - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By malibudriver - December 19 - 2:00 am

  Nice looking car, comfortable interior but many mechanical problems. Brakes, engine hesitation at freeway speed, cruise control not functioning etc. I really like everything about the car except for the mechanical defects and my dealership does not offer good customer service when something goes wrong. Safety is a high priority for me and when my lease is up in May 2003 I will be happy to get into another car that I can feel safe driving. The brake problem is just a little too much and seems to be irreparable. The 2000 Malibu seems to be hit or miss and I missed on this one.

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  Surprised Even a Chevy Sales Person! - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Aaron Tirrell - December 12 - 6:33 am

  Since its introduction, I have been intrigued. I recently got out of my 2006 Trail Blazer (which my wife & I loved!) and leased the 2LT 4CYL. I wanted the 6CYL, but was too impatient to wait for an incomming vehicle! We are pleasantly surprised with the smoth operation of the 4CYL. The ride is just amazing. The car looks and feels like a luxury vehicle! As a sales person who loves the Chevrolet Brand - It is embarassing how surprised I am! I am not surprised, however, that I have seen many luxury brand owners interested in the Malibu! The car is just that nice. Std ALL Malibus: ABS,Dynamic Brake Proportioning,Traction Control,Tire Air Pressure Monitors,Auto Lights with DRL,Side Air Bags

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  READ THIS, IT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE! - 2002 Chevrolet Malibu
  By amills - December 10 - 2:00 am

  I owned a 2002 Malibu LS. This car is very dangerous to drive. The brakes on these cars are a joke. After reading the other comments left about 2000 cars which have the exact same kind of braking system, I see there is obviously a manufacturers flaw. The reason I am even leaving a message is to warn anyone who is considering the purchase of this type of vehicle. I had a very bad accident due to brake failure. I had problems with the brakes 2 weeks after I purchased the car. The car was totalled in the accident & the air bags did not go off. I dont feel this car is safe by any stretch of the imagination.

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  Almost got killed - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Geoff Frisch - December 9 - 2:00 am

  Front right speed sensor malfunctioned, causing the brake to lock at 60 MPH, sending me across 5 lanes of traffic. A miracle me, my wife and son are still alive. When the abs light comes on, see your dealer immediately!!

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  Absolute best car I have ever owned - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Walt - December 8 - 8:46 am

  Cant belive how much you get for the price. Quiet smooth ride with great luxury features. Excellent power with great gas mileage.Beautiful design with plenty of room. Cant think of anything that would improve this car.

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  The Good and The Bad - 1997 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Anil_V_Reddy - December 6 - 2:00 am

  I ran into maximum problems between 43K miles and 62K miles. Steering fluid leak - 43K miles Brakes wear out - 44K miles CV joint replacement - 47K miles Gasket leakage - 52K miles Another set of brakes - 53K miles Replaced alternator - 58K miles Yet another set of brakes - 62K miles. If you dont believe me, I have all the receipts. Surprisingly, after the last bout at 62K miles, it has run very well (knock on wood) and I now have 94K miles

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  Problems - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By John & Amanda - December 6 - 2:00 am

  Nothing but trouble with this car. A few of the same problems others have such as the tail lights and the AC switch. Also the ignition switch wouldnt always go all the way off so when you leave the car the accessories come on and the battery is drained next time you get in. Alternator was going out. Made creaking sounds from the rear when going over bumps. Squeaky brakes. Oh yeah and 4 (FOUR) cracked fly wheels in less than a year. The best thing about the car is that Swope Mitsubishi offered to give us a new car recently to replace this Malibu. A Galant. More trade in value and a lot nicer.

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  Will never buy another Chevy. - 1997 Chevrolet Malibu
  By CheyHater - December 4 - 2:00 am

  Dont ever buy one of these unless you have a lot of money and time to waste. A whole lot better to pay a couple grand more and buy and Accord or a Campry or an Altima.. or anything else.

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  Chev malibu is trash - 2002 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Syed - December 3 - 2:00 am

  Bought an optimum vehicle since then I have nothing but troubles with this car, GM service sucks. My advise : buy a Japanese car that brings reliability, economy and good service with it. I am buying Japanese cars for the rest of my life.

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  Disappointed - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By disappointed - November 25 - 8:00 pm

  The gas mileage is what makes me disappointed. I only get 15 mpg in city and about 18 on the highway. This is nowhere close to what the advertised mileage is on this car. The plastic interior is misaligned as well on the door frame.