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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  WHAT A GREAT CAR!!! I LOVE IT:) - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Johnny b good - September 10 - 2:00 am

  We bought our Malibu brand new, have not had 1 repair done to it since day 1, other than to change the oil and rotate the tires( which are still original) and yes the brakes are fine, a/c is working great. Great handling car, super fuel mileage, comfortable road car. Does great in snow/ice, when other japanese cars are spinning their wheels on snow trying to get going, Ill go right on by them. I love it.

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  2015 Chevy Malibu Ls - 2015 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Joe - September 8 - 9:30 am

  Well I have had this car for two months and I am very happy with it, the 2.5L engine makes good power 196hp and the fuel mileage is very good I actually get the advertised mileage ,the car is very comfortable and all the controls are laid out nice and are very easy to understand and operate it handles great and it is a joy to drive. the only thing I would change is the engine auto start stop feature it works well but I rather not have it and there should be a on-off switch for those of us who would rather have it off but I took care of that and it does not auto start stop unless I want it to. So at this point the car drives and operates just the way I like and I am very happy with it and I would recommend it to anyone who needs a nice mid sized car

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  I have enjoyed the car very much... - 1997 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Chevy - September 6 - 2:00 am

  It has been a great car! I put over 20K miles in the first year of owning it. Had a few problems, but you expect that from any car. No major problems! My car has over 80K now and we still love it.

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  Best choice among midsizers - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Malibu Owner - September 5 - 12:03 am

  Traded in our 2006 Chevrolet Impala LT for a 2009 Chevrolet Malibu LS, what an improvement. The Impalas a good car, but the Malibu is an excellent car. It rides really smooth, feels well put together, is designed well inside and out and is a good value. It comes with ABS, traction and stability control, six airbags, OnStar with turn- by-turn directions, Sirius-XM radio and so much more all standard. Ours had no options. We love the golden pewter metallic color which looks light blue sometimes and gray/silver others, depending on the light. When driving, the car feels planted, dont be afraid to hit the gas around a curve. Brakes that could stop a train are great too.

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  Real Sporty Sedan - 2002 Chevrolet Malibu
  By barry - September 3 - 2:00 am

  I have a 2001 Chevy Mailbu LS. I love this car but its time for a new design since this vehicles made its appearance in 1997 not many changes have been made when many cars in its class have had total make overs. But in all this car is a great car my friends love it and i love it is my pride an joy. i have had only minor problems only the brakes had to be turned. I love this car.

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  Dont buy this one! - 1997 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Hansenvl61 - August 29 - 2:00 am

  This car has been nothing but problems. I will never buy another chevy, no lie.

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  piece of junk - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By financially strapped - August 23 - 2:00 am

  (1)A couple of months after having the car, heard annoying squeak.The dealership replaced the rotors and the squeak remained. Never could find out where the noice was coming from. 2)The seal around my back window, when driving down the interstate it comes loose and makes a horrible noise. 3)Had to have air conditioning switch replaced, because it was shutting on and off. (4) Just had a new alternator put on (5)Most recently,loosing coolant from my radiator. Took it to the shop, was told it was the manifold gasket. A $500 dollar repair. The car only has 45000 miles and I have 2 more years to pay on it and the warranty just expired a few months ago.

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  Excellent Value - 2001 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Ricker99 - August 23 - 2:00 am

  This car lives up to its highly regarded expectations. Zippy for its size, it has more than enough power. The transmission is silky smooth, and the drive is solid yet fun. Im 63" tall and I have plenty of room in the drivers seat. I enjoy the good fuel economy. Only complaint is road noise gets a little high at highway speeds. Otherwise, I love this car.

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  Our New Malibu! - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By larry tobias - August 21 - 11:50 am

  We leased our Malibu on June 5th, 2005 (Its our fourth Malibu lease in a row, dating back to 1997). We like this years design best of all. My only regret is that we did not get it with the sport package. It runs and handles very well, with plenty of room for rear passengers, and room in the trunk. We are getting about 21mpg. around town, and about 30 mpg. on the highway.

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  Malibu the car with personality - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By tyral hodge - August 18 - 2:43 am

  The Malibu reminded me of the driving experience that I got out of my 97 Mitsubishi Diamante a car that was great bang for buck but over shadowed by the big names Lexus & Acura. However I dont believe this will happen with Malibu due to all the advertisement. The car gets lots of looks and people think its a more expensive vehicle. Love the control you have of the car. I love power so its not quite enough but for a person who isnt a car buff like myself its more than plenty. I would buy another one. Tried to get my spouse to get one but they didnt want to have the same car. Car gets stated mpg, engine is quiet & took me awhile to get use to the smooth ride smoother than Accord.