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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  Over rated - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By No more domestic - May 6 - 2:00 am

  The 99 Malibu (V6) was just ok. Very plain design with minimal extras available. I had to have the brakes replaced 4 times in five years. The engine was the best thing about the car. Not one problem. Something behind the dash rattled from day one and the dealer couldnt find it. The dash was ok, but the materials used were cheap. Delco stereo was useable, but not impressive. Resale value is horrible. Its a good car for the price, but Im going back to imports.

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  Sorry Engine - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By okiecityguy - April 21 - 2:00 am

  I liked my Malibu. I was excited to get it. BUT...The first year I had it it had a computer malfunction. There have been a series of small things since. AC switch erratic, had to replace the alternator. Belt pully went bad. But now. Now the engine (V6) is shot! Losing coolant at an alarming rate. Needs intake gaskets! This car only has 77K miles! Sorry GM, Im out on your vehicles. My 98 Pontiac Montana (3.4L) is doing the same thing. Its in the shop now.

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  stuck with mine - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By cronic dissapointmen - April 10 - 2:00 am

  Ive had each of the problems everyone else had. Quickly worn brakes (x2), failed alternator, failed battery, failed tensioner, failed water pump, leaking intake gasket, failed a.c. switch, broken glove compartment latch, steering wheel finish worn off, cheap interior quality, erratic a.b.s. light and the list goes on.

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  They should pay.... - 2001 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Mark Ferrer - April 1 - 2:00 am

  I have had nothing but problems with this car in the last six months. Fuel pumps, the timing, but lately, the wonderful theft system keeps cutting on and leaving me and my car stranded on the side of the road. Chevy says this is not their problem, but upon investigation, I have found that this has happened often to this model car. Instead of a recall, chevy continues to stick their head in the sand and pretend they have no liability in this area. I recommend that not only do you stay away from Malibu, but all chevys. They DO NOT stand behind their product.

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  Poor workmanship, service - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By jenmcm76 - March 22 - 2:00 am

  Ive had many of the problems mentioned here - break wear, blower not working on 1 or 2, etc. My dealership would NOT fix the brake problem under warranty. They said it was due to normal wear and tear, though I only had 30,000 miles on it - probably 90% highway driving. Even in 2000 everyone knew it was a design issue, but they refused to cover it - so it cost me $250. The workmanship is pretty bad. The cover keeps coming off the control panel in the drivers armrest, the trunk liner ripped away from the trunk, and the cargo net hooks ripped out of the liner. The gas tank is smaller than advertised - they claim its 15-gal, but its more like 12.5-13 gal.

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  Bad Engine - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By powell d - February 10 - 2:00 am

  the engine is advertised to last 100,000 before changing the spark plugs. dont beleive it. this engine is built on theory. the designers dont even know how to fix them. my engine has 55,000 miles and i already have to have it replaced. I change my oil and did everything GM suggest. this car is a Looser. GM built a good car with a low grade engine. Be ready to spend repair money. Rating = 3

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  2009 Malibu review - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By mrvikes@msn.com - February 9 - 11:20 am

  A squeak in the front end that couldnt be located.

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  Im so ready to trade this in - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By MoJo411 - January 29 - 2:00 am

  I bought my malibu at 28K miles. The car is reliable, starts up every morning w/no problem. BUT I have replaced brakes 3 times, rotors twice, had to put new battery and altenator in, replace windshield wiper blades twice, get a/c fixed (and it still isnt working right) replaced taillights 3 times, and my a/c switch now only works on 3, 4 and 5. I have spend too much money on this car, probably more than Ill get for it at trade-in time.

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  Okay but not great - 2001 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Frenchguy - January 24 - 2:00 am

  Brakes are the achilles heel of this vehicle. Like all of GMs mid-size cars (Had a 99 Alero with the same problem). At 28,000 miles the discs had to be turned and the pads changed. The Alero was worse, in 35,000 miles the brakes were repaired three times. I just dont get the sense that this car will last as well as my 98 Protege.

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  opinion - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By westbeach - January 23 - 2:00 am

  Front panel electrical system has been a chronic problem. Blower has had to be repaired 3 times. Intake/Recirc is now broken. Bulbs blow out, a fortune to fix. Brake repair and battery replacement. NOW, the cars transmission will not shift in the cold weather. Needs 5 minutes to warm up to even think of shifting. Repair shop says all these problems are KNOWN issues with this car. Cheve Customer Service was HORRIBLE. Quote: "Once you buy the car, it is your problem". Dealer sold me a warranty, now the warranty company is bankrupt and the dealer said it is my problem.