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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  The worst car I ever purchased.... - 2001 Chevrolet Malibu
  By A Quinonez - May 21 - 2:00 am

  I was surprised to see the fabulous comments that most of the people wrote. The Malibu has been my worst nightmare since I purchased it. It has given me many mechanical problems and breakdowns. It has left me stranded and at 55000 I had to do a major tune- up, while it is advertised as an 100,000+ tune up interval. It gives the worst gas mileage, and it runs as a V4, while it claims to be a V6. It overheats very frequently, and it apparently is falling apart little by little. It is a very regular car, for very regular people. I sincerely regret purchasing this vehicle, and suggest you ponder a few days before purchasing this vehicle.

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  okay - 1997 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Verrell Haywood - April 22 - 2:00 am

  A lot of issues, except with the engine and transmission.

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  Im going to Toyota - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By JohnJ - April 10 - 2:00 am

  @ 5.5 yrs old (49k) the following has been replaced: 3 sets of brakes including rotors steering gear twice upper control arms twice rear sway bar bushings ABS rht front wheel speed sensor intake manifold gasket ignition wiring heater speed control. The cost of the repair of the intake manifold leak (allowing oil & antifreeze to mix) GM would not coverfor me yet for a friend of mine with the same problem on a 98 Venture they covered (both mine and his not under warranty and just a couple months apart). GM is very inconsistent with customer support.

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  breaks feel funny - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By loooser - March 24 - 2:00 am

  When i test drove the vehicle the breaks felt like the were grinding. The dealership said it was surface rust from moisture and would ware off with the first use. This happens every time it rains. I took a week vacation and when i got back it was worse than ever, it went away after a few stops. Still grinds after every use or when it sits for a period of time.

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  Lower back isses and tall, Stay AWAY!! - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Scott Rossmann - March 20 - 2:38 am

  On this model do not get it. The manual seats have this funky ratcheting lever that raises the seat. Im 62" tall and now my head hits the roof as I enter and leave the car besides my lower back is killing me due to non-existent lumbar support. The goofy auto stop feature sometimes kicks on and feels like someone just hit the rear bumper. Needs some major work. Already complained the very next business day to get the Tuff F.U. from the dealer and sales department. They dont care at all, but now since they do when my feet go numb because of their crappy seat and causes an accident, they will be held liable!

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  OK Car: Need better Warranty/Services - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Bitter Customer - February 17 - 2:00 am

  Bought new in May 1999. Horn didnt work after 2 months. Dealer take 3 days to replaced whole system, broke tilt handle during repair, so have to replace that. Steering wheel been screaking eversince. Car have no major problem for almost a year after that. Then all the problems began. Brakes screak. A/C broke and give out mildew odor. Dealer Fixed A/C and install a fan that blow automatically every 10 minutes or so when idle. Both tie rod were loose and need replacing. Both rear brakes cylinder were leaking badly. Belt buckle broke.. Plastic screws from seat fall apart. All n All, its an OK car. Would NOT buy another one though.

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  Reliabilty - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Cindy Ann - January 24 - 10:00 am

  with less than 500 hundred miles it has been in the servcie repair twice due to stalling when stopping at traffic light, no one can seem to find the problem. The dealship states this is the second Malibu to come in with the problem. the dealership is being very helpful and nice and doing there best to correct the problem. Genral Motors is not helping them though.

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  Lemon from Hell - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Tom O - January 2 - 2:00 am

  This car has had two fuel injectors replaced, in-tank fuel pump replaced, fuel filters replaced, light sensors replaced(they dim the instrument lights), wow and it was only two yers old with only 35000 miles. After a short 60 mile trip, the car would not start. Had to be towed for repairs. This has been the least dependable car weve ever owned and I have owned 15 cars myself. This car is unreliable and its not worth its good looks and nice interior to even own one of these cars. Booo...Hissss Tom O

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  Piece of Junk!!! - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Bill Polinchak - January 1 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Malibu in 1999 after I graduated from college. It was used with 25,000 miles. Since then the alternator failed at only 48,000 ($440). Ive had the brakes done twice ($1000). The A/C switch failed, it was replaced and then failed again. And now the water pump failed along with an engine gasket, a $1044 repair. I will NEVER buy another Chevy or GM product ever again!!! My next car will be a Toyota Camry. I tried to be a good American and bought an American car ... that was a mistake. Shame on General Motors!!!

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  Sorely disappointed - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Jusluvinlife2 - December 30 - 2:00 am

  Purchased this vehicle as a program car. Have been very displeased with the quality. The turn signals have a short in them appeared at 20K miles, makes for a truly annoying buzz everytime you turn the sinals on. The airbag light had a short, appeared at approximately the same time was told it was a separate issue. The hazard light switch is going out, likes to flash whenever it pleases.The brakes have a serious problem dealer stated poor design, would continue to be a problem. They were repaired under warranty but the problem has returned 20K miles later. The leather interior is cheap. The leather is worn in several places even small tears.