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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  Test drive one now! - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By chevytopsall - December 6 - 12:36 am

  This is the nicest car I have ever owned! Great on gas, quiet, great looking, handles like a dream. If these are the cars coming from GM now and in the future, by stock now! I just cant say enough great things about this car! Love It!

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  Great Car - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Doug Barth - December 5 - 4:23 am

  I would definitely buy this car again, it has served us well.

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  Dont Buy This Car - Youll Regret It! - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Brian Kelly - December 3 - 2:33 pm

  My 2014 Odyssey was hit in the rear pretty bad a week ago. His name is Reggie, poor Reggie. It is in the body shop getting repaired. I have this 2016 Malibu Eco LTZ as a rental for two weeks from Hertz. To be fair, overall it is a nice car. Handles nicely like a German car - like our 2000 Jetta when it was new. The styling is nice, the technology is nice, the ride is sporty and fun to drive, the handling is sporty and fun to drive. HOWEVER, all the nice features fall apart because it is designed to completely stop and turn off when you come to a complete stop in order to save gas. It is a HORRIBLE and extremely ANNOYING feature!!!! Our Honda van has an eco mode that saves gas but it does not involve turning completely off at every single stop light. The eco mode of our van does not turn off to save gas but engages when the car is MOVING. This Malibu is a nightmare to drive because of this aggravating feature. We have begun making a game of it to keep from getting mad. If you turn the Air conditioning on (comfort mode not eco mode), the engine sorta turns off less. If you shift into Neutral as you stop at a stoplight, it keeps running. If you press on the gas lightly as you have your foot firmly down on the brake at a complete stop, it does not shut off. Even more of a JOKE, at a long stop light, the car will just UNEXPECTEDLY turns back on on its own if you are at a long long light. What a JOKE about saving gas! Thankfully, it is only a rental and I can turn it back into Hertz in two weeks. We have named the car Obama, as the president and his eco nut friends are probably very proud of themselves for inspiring such a junky car feature to save gas - eco nuts! Don’t buy this car if you are a car enthusiast or a enjoy driving like us, the shut off feature will drive you nuts unless you make it a game.

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  Malibu 6cycl - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Happy Gator - November 30 - 3:00 am

  Before buying, drove Genisus, Buick, and Hundai. This was best by far after considering price etc. Attractive interior, good acceleration on 6 cyl. wouldnt have a 4 cyl, too slow and mushy. We are very satisfied with this car. We also have an 08 2500 diesel, that we love. Chevy all the way. Traded wifes HHR (Spring Edition loaded. Thought price was right

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  I love my new Malibu - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Lexianna - November 30 - 2:00 am

  I love my new Malibu. I bought it the same time my child bought their Calvalier. We both love our new Chevys. My 2004 Malibu has everything I was looking for in a new car plus some extras like the auto start, without paying too much. I wanted a BMW, but when I really looked at the BMW body from the back it looked like an old Honda, only the front looked different. I couldnt see paying that much for a car that looked like a Honda. The 2004 Malibu has its own look, its looks more expensive than it is. Its a beautiful car!!

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  Dont like the shift paddles - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Shift Paddles a Flop - November 18 - 12:26 am

  Great car but they screwed up when they moved the manual shift to the steering wheel. You still have to put the shift stick in Manual before you can use the paddles. It would have been more convenient if they had left the ability manual shift on the shift lever like most other manufacturers. Another complaint is that GM changed suppliers for the built in garage door opener. The new units will not work on any door or gate installed within the last 10 years. My 2002 Envoys unit worked fine on all my gates. My wifes only complaint is seeing out the rear window.

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  So far - so good - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By jim mccormack - November 12 - 10:26 am

  Other than the lack of power with the 4 cyl., I am very happy with this Chevy. Exceedingly comfortable to drive and handles very well and smooth on the open road. Smooth ride, steering is a dream, minor problems with door hinges, as stated so far - so good.

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  I love my 2009 Malibu LTZ V6! - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By laurainlouisiana - October 31 - 8:33 pm

  Ive had my red Malibu LTZ V6 almost 2 weeks and I absolutely love it. It looks like a million bucks - everywhere I go people ask me, "What kind of car is that? Its so pretty!" It drives like a 4 door sports car and handles like a dream. So far it is getting 30-31 mpg on the hwy and 18-22 in the city. It seems to get a higher avg mpg as I get a few more miles on it. The OnStar nav is great as I have no sense of direction. The seats are beautiful and comfortable and the trunk is roomy enough for a trip for 4 for a few days in N.O. The elec plug in the back is awesome. Everyday I find more to love about this car! I feel like a celebrity when I drive it because everybody stares at it

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  My back feels good - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By flowerlady - October 24 - 12:33 am

  I have a bad back. I tried out 19 cars before I found the Malibu LTZ and comfort for my poor sacroiliac. The car is wonderful! Not only does it feel good, it performs beautifully. So far the mileage is good - about 20 around town, 26 on the highway. I expect it to get better. The car is gorgeous on the outside. The color choice for the inside is strange. I would have preferred a gray or white interior, but the black with brick (which was all that was available with the color I chose - golden pewter) is okay. Only negative is that there is no place to put a trash bucket. Otherwise the car is a dream and I love it.

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  Owner Chevrolet malibu 2003 - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Ricky Leflore - October 18 - 2:00 am

  I tested a few cars from renting them all new all kinds.some had 140 mph some had 120 This one has 120 but has more pick up than the ones I drove that had 140 on it and fuel wow it is had to belive this auto 4 speed really saves me fuel and I use to rent a car for a week all kinds For style room fuel. pick up this will really get up and go and and saves you money ever time you drive it