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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  Malibu LS - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By malibudriver - December 19 - 2:00 am

  Nice looking car, comfortable interior but many mechanical problems. Brakes, engine hesitation at freeway speed, cruise control not functioning etc. I really like everything about the car except for the mechanical defects and my dealership does not offer good customer service when something goes wrong. Safety is a high priority for me and when my lease is up in May 2003 I will be happy to get into another car that I can feel safe driving. The brake problem is just a little too much and seems to be irreparable. The 2000 Malibu seems to be hit or miss and I missed on this one.

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  Almost got killed - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Geoff Frisch - December 9 - 2:00 am

  Front right speed sensor malfunctioned, causing the brake to lock at 60 MPH, sending me across 5 lanes of traffic. A miracle me, my wife and son are still alive. When the abs light comes on, see your dealer immediately!!

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  Disappointed - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By disappointed - November 25 - 8:00 pm

  The gas mileage is what makes me disappointed. I only get 15 mpg in city and about 18 on the highway. This is nowhere close to what the advertised mileage is on this car. The plastic interior is misaligned as well on the door frame.

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  Amazingly Misinformed Dealer - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By tk_ki - November 18 - 2:00 am

  Okay, weve anyone thinking about buying a used OR new Malibu should first check out a Camry or Altima. The engine has had a tapping noise from day one, 4th set of brakes in 35,000 miles, A/C has a mind of its own, rattles get progressively worse, front end is mushy, dealer acts as though Malibus have no known service issues. HA! There have been over 200 "service notices" since this particular style of Malibu came to market in 1997. My dealer hates to see me coming at this point. My vehicle is leased, and is going back to the dealer where I purchased it from at lease end. BEWARE of OFF LEASE MALIBUS!

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  Its Ok? - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Jonboy - November 13 - 2:00 am

  I dont love it but I dont hate it. The car has a unique shape to it that I like. Its bold and rigidy. Brakes stink on it but manages to stop. I gotta say for a Chevy 3.1 V6 170hp, thats pretty good. Its got great acceleration,but it just sounds like a truck. Its an ok car in my book.oh its got good speakers for factory.

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  not to bad - 1997 Chevrolet Malibu
  By huff_daddy456 - October 3 - 2:00 am

  Got a 1997 in April of 2001. I found one with only 30K and got a decent aftermarket warranty.(7 years or 100K miles bumper to bumper) Thank god I paid the extra money for this warrenty because in the past year its only fun me about $200 to get over $4000 of work done. The intire front electronics system went out and I lost all my speed sensors, power everything, and the factory standard alttenator has gone out 3 times. Even though this stuff has happened I love this car. Because of the V6 and heavier car its a great ride and I have to drive 21 hours to visit family and believe me its been a life saver.

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  Not happy - 1997 Chevrolet Malibu
  By BadMalibu - September 23 - 2:00 am

  Bought car used with 30K miles. Everything fine for the first 10K, then just fell apart. Nothing but problems - wheel bearing went, front end and motor was so loose the car would actually stall from the wires being pulled out when stopping or starting out. Ignition switch went and burned out starter at the same time. Way too many problems for a car with under 60K miles on it. Very noisy, feel every bump in the road.

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  No problems....but one... - 1997 Chevrolet Malibu
  By MS - September 12 - 2:00 am

  This car has been good to me. It has only been in the shop once. The intake gasket was leaking coolant. I realized that this was probably happening from the 2nd year on and could have gotten it fixed under the warranty, but now have to pay $600. So warning to new Malibu owners to have it tested. Again, besides this I have no complaints, it has been a reliable car that still looks good.

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  piece of junk - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By financially strapped - August 23 - 2:00 am

  (1)A couple of months after having the car, heard annoying squeak.The dealership replaced the rotors and the squeak remained. Never could find out where the noice was coming from. 2)The seal around my back window, when driving down the interstate it comes loose and makes a horrible noise. 3)Had to have air conditioning switch replaced, because it was shutting on and off. (4) Just had a new alternator put on (5)Most recently,loosing coolant from my radiator. Took it to the shop, was told it was the manifold gasket. A $500 dollar repair. The car only has 45000 miles and I have 2 more years to pay on it and the warranty just expired a few months ago.

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  Shame on me for believing the commercial - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By goombatz - July 25 - 2:00 am

  Of course, it all happened after 37,000 miles. Breaks, rotors, AC electrical (twice), rear light circuits, front lights -- total cost of $1600. Dealer did not think this was unusual or unexpected. Rear right panel loose for no reason. Power steering hoses wore out -- $250 Where is the quality here. Foaming falling from dash, blocking vents, Shift loose, lots of rattles