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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  More car for the money - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Todd Holcomb - March 2 - 1:20 pm

  I bought my wife a 2009 Camry XLE in the fall and wanted to buy myself something different when our van died. I test drove the Accord, Altima, and Malibu. The Malibu was the quietest and smoothest ride of the three. Also, when it came down to price I felt like I got more car for my money. I bought the 2LT model.

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  The best one for the money - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By cjaxcota12 - February 22 - 10:00 am

  Well, ive only had the vehicle 2 days, but I drive 150 mi round trip to and from work... So I have spent lots of time in the vehicle... the looks I get from Lexus and Mercedes drivers are very interesting, all drivers for that matter, its a look of astonishment.

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  Good Job GM! This is more like it! - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Frank C. - February 18 - 10:20 pm

  Just plain and simple, I wanted to buy an American car again, and in my opinion, this is one of the best American or Import cars I have seen. Outstanding build quality, in and out. A lot of car for the money, great incentives right now. Anyone considering a mid-size car, or any size for that matter, really needs to take a look at the Malibu. Lets give the guys from Detroit another chance America! Theyre finally trying to get it right. Hope it transcends to the rest of Chevys line up in the future.

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  A Winner! - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Tricky73 - February 16 - 2:00 am

  I changed from a Catera Sport to the Malibu to get better access to the rear seat, compared to the new CTS design. I am pleasantly surprised at the satisfaction and performance of the Malibu, and would suggest other geezers look at this vehicle as an alternative to a Caddy for going to the supermarket...love the many new engineering features (e.g. electric steering.)

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  04 Chevy Malibu LS - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By dan ford - February 16 - 2:00 am

  Have researched and test-driven cars to purchase for about 5 months. As a former car salesperson, I was able to really ask tough questions to potential dealers both online and in person. I was pleasantly surprised upon learning about the new Malibu and immediately checked your website and others, concentrating on reviews and information in general. Using your website, we were able to get a quote from Woodruff Chevrolet that was interesting. After making personal contact, my wife and I test drove an LS version of the Malibu and were impressed by the features and preformance. We bought and are satisfied!

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  2008 Chevy Malibu - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Ed Keppel - February 8 - 8:10 pm

  My 2008 LTZ is fun to drive, I am getting almost 29 miles to the gallon on the highway. Handles like a sports car, a lot of car for the money. All of my friends and relatives think its a great looking car. The interior is very quiet, this is why I chose the Malibu over the new Accord.

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  Refined car that does everything well - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
  By greg128 - February 3 - 7:08 pm

  Just leased a new 2016 Malibu Premier mostly for the wife but also for me (have a company truck). It does everything exceedingly well. It looks fantastic in and out. The 2.0 Turbo is a gem, and is very smooth and quiet even from outside of the car. Maximum torque is available from 2000-5000 RPM and combined with the 8 speed transmission it is rewardingly responsive at all speeds. That combined with the lighter weight and excellent steering it feels to me almost like a sports sedan, and I have had a few sports cars in the past. The ride is firm and composed, and the cabin attractive and quiet. This replaced my wifes 2008 Saturn Aura with the 3.6 V-6 which had plenty of power but which wasnt readily available from the 6 speed transmission unless it was punched. The Malibu power comes on early and strong with only partial throttle inputs as the 8 speed eagerly downshifts when asked. I had reservations about the Turbo 4 and not sure about its long term reliability but not too worried as this engine has been used by GM for a number of years and the car is leased so that is not an issue to me. It is also agile and light on its feet around corners and has a far more rigid structure compared to her Saturn, which I liked very much. The technology is amazing. The My Link interface is intuitive and fairly easy to use. The navigation has a second integrated window that shows what the road actually looks like, including the number of lanes on the road. Voice commands work failry well. Blind spot alerts in the mirrors and moving vehicle alerts when backing up also work well. The Bose sound system sounds good to me. There are some downsides...no spare tire (bought a bunch of tire plugs...also has roadside assistance for 5 years...although I might spring for an optional spare)....and my wife mentioned the noticeable downshifts from the transmission which I told her was normal and frankly dont bother me. Premium fuel is "recommended" which tells me performance and mileage will be less with regular. In mostly city driving we are seeing about 22 MPG. On the highway it is indicating around 35 MPG according to the trip computer. In summation, other than more power (probably not practical with FWD) I cant see how the driving experience could get much better.

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  Best Buy for the Money! - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Don M. - January 26 - 2:00 am

  We were looking at cars in the $25- $30K range, when we came across this loaded Malibu LS. It didnt take long to see the merit in this car, and we bought it. With the rebate, we saved the better part of $10k over what we intended to spend. It compares real favorably with some of the foreign cars made by H, T, and N. The fit and finish is excellent, and it rides and performs quite well. I even like the idea that it has a older style "pushrod engine". We wont have to worry about spending hundeds of dollars to have the overhead cam drive belt replaced.

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  130K Miles and still running strong - 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Chepnih - January 24 - 5:46 am

  So far so good. I have owned this car for 6 years. Regular maintenance is all it needs. Engine and Transmission still in great shape. A lot more reliable than accord that I used to own. My only issue is with the headlights. You need to spend an hour of labor to change just the bulb. But after watching a few youtube videos, I changed the last one myself.

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  Thank God it was just a rental - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Onlyhonda - January 22 - 10:27 pm

  I would rather drive my 17 year old honda than this p.o.s. the ride was so noisy and unsteady,too many blind spots,interior is very poorly designed. I seriously didnt feel safe driving the car due to its poor outward visibility, and shaking, I had to to exchange it a better designed sedan (sonata).this experience has forced me to never consider GM products for anything.you would think a brand new car would have more pep,but then again its a chevy.