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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  A good Camry substitute - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By nerdboy1987 - April 25 - 2:00 am

  My dad bought this car 4 years ago, when I was in the 7 th grade and 13 years old, I thought it was a piece of junk Chevrolet and it wouldnt last over 75,000 miles. Well I was very incorrect in that assumption. The car now has 110,000 miles on it and it is my first car. Other than the poorly designed brakes that constantly need replacing (because of the retarded abs disc\rear drum)and the sub par interior controls this car has serverd our family well!

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  Second time was the charm - 2002 Chevrolet Malibu
  By ms5468 - April 18 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my vehicle 4/12/02 brand new had only 13 miles on it. Drive it off the lot and 20 minutes later had a problem with the engine and brakes. The car had to be towed to the dealer the next day, and after heavy negotiations I received another Malibu. Happy to report it runs perfectly. Was a little worried since I traded in a Honda Civic for it. Hope to keep on trucking for at least 7 years.

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  Loving It - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By SDauper - April 18 - 1:20 am

  This is definitely the car for me. I am getting 33.9 mpg on the highway and 27.8 in the city. The new electronic power steering is great, no dead space when wheel is at center. I live in Southern Wisconsin and this car tracks great in the snow and ice. Select shift transmission makes slippery take offs a snap. Traction control works very well. Factory installed keyless remote start sure makes window scraping a breeze. Not to mention heated seats in cloth. Dont have to have leather if you dont want it. The shift into passing gear is extremely smooth, dont get a big head jerk as the car gears down. Plenty of passing power on the interstates. I highly recommend this car to anyone.

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  I love my Malibu!!!! - 2002 Chevrolet Malibu
  By monica - April 16 - 2:00 am

  This is actually my 6th car in 12 years. I have had everything from Hondas, Cadillacs, Oldsmobiles, Chevys, and Fords. I was reluctant to but another Chevy, however, after intensive research I found the Malibu. This car received major good reviews from a lot of car publications. I have had my car for almost a year and I am completely satisfied. I am really hard on cars, especially the brakes, and my car has held up VERY well. I have a fully loaded LS, this was one of the best purchases I have made.

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  98 Malibu problems - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By jmahonis - April 14 - 2:00 am

  Front brakes get wobbly way too soon (rotors warped). Had to have rear bushings replaced twice, an ABS speed sensor went bad, and, worst of all, something like front strut mounts had to be replaced. Most of these items are things I never had to have service on with any other cars.

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  Big Disappointment - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By plr882 - April 12 - 2:00 am

  Thought I was getting a great package with this car. Found out later this car has many problems. First the fuel pump, then problem with the pulleys which destroyed my power steering pump. Had to replace serpentine belt twice. A/C control head went up and dealership broke my CD player and knocked a grommet loose in the firewall which created a leak. One disaster after another!! No problem with brakes though. Latest problem is the lower intake manifold gasket. Thatll cost $500+ to fix. Car only has 50K miles on it!! I cant wait to get rid of this piece of junk!

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  An excellent value - 2002 Chevrolet Malibu
  By sean258 - April 12 - 2:00 am

  I actually have a 1997 Malibu that I purchased through Enterprise Auto in 1999 (June) I am very happy with the car. I purchased the car with 40000 miles on it and presently it has 78000 on it. I work for the rail road and this car has been as far as Port Washington to Speonk with no problem. It has never let me down.

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  Solid car and quiet - 2015 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Gregg Miller - April 10 - 7:47 am

  This car is one of the most solid cars I have driven. I rent several and buy new every 3-4 years. Crossing RR tracks and not a sound, rattle, or noise. The 2.5 stop start engine is great. Plenty of pep and gas mileage is great. We use this car mainly in the city and suburban driving. Other cars of the same size and engine I would average 22 MPG. This with the stop start at many stop and go lights we run into, is getting and average of 26-27. Highway drives are in the upper 30s. I like the stop/start. Our neighbor travels to Europe and almost all the cars have it there. He road with me and said the one is better the BMW or Mercedes he has driven. He said you dont even feel it. The tan leather interior we ordered gets everyone attention. Said it looks like a luxury car, better then a friends BMW. Only terrible thing we had to have fixed is the awful front seats with a big lumbar bulge. Some people would not mind this or even like it, but my wife and I both have bad backs and need perfectly flat back rest. My feet when numb. Had to take to a trim shop and have the bulge taken out. My 09 Malibu was great. perfectly flat back rest and if you wanted a bulge it had a power lumbar,but it would adjust to completely flat as it should.

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  Wonderful Car - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By jaqueline - April 10 - 2:00 am

  I bought the car at a certified dealer, 35,000 miles with an extended 3 year warranty (bumber to bumber). We love the way it drives, standard features are great, v6 engine.......Best of all my children love it. I would recommend this car to the average "american buyer".

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  Happy Malibu Owner - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By JoAnn Kirk - April 1 - 10:00 am

  We purchased this car last Dec. It gets around 31 mpg in town and 34 out on the hwy. This car has Onstar,and is fully loaded. Power windows,power breaks, ABS breaks,and more that I have forgotten to mention! We have been totally satisfied with this purchase. We looked at a Camery with all the options this one had except for the Onstar feature. The Camery was 29,695. The Malibu was 23,600. I feel we got a great deal and exceptional value purchasing this car.