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 - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Waggs2008 - July 26 - 10:40 pm

  I bought my 99 Malibu for $400. I couldnt pass it up even though I read on here before I got it, and so far mine has had head gasket problems. It runs good and I think the v6 has enough power. The car was wrecked but put back together somewhat when I got it. Still needs paint job and windshield. The CD player plays when it wants too. Same with the sunroof, its power and it doesnt wanna close all the time. Handles pretty good. Rust around the gas cap.

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  You Get What You Pay For - 2007 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Mal Abue - July 24 - 10:34 pm

  I needed a cheap, economical company vehicle and chose the Malibu over Japanese competitors. It is averaging 33+ mpg on highway commuting and 29 to 30 in town. The car is comparable or better than anything built by other car companies in its price range. You get what you pay for and the Malibu is tough to beat for its price.

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  Quit your whinning...this is a good car! - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By 8 Handicap - July 21 - 10:00 am

  I am surprised to see all of the negative comments about this car. The car handles great, has terrific acceleration, and is very comfortable on long trips. We have only had one service issue with the car and the dealership repaired it because we bought an extended warranty. Just a little advise to buyers of American cars...BUY AN EXTENDED WARRANTY...you are going to have problems. The only service I have had to pay for is new front disk break rotors and pads at 60,000 miles (which is excellent). Overall this has been a great car for my family. Malibus dont hold their value,but they will give you good service if you take good care of them.

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  2005 Malibu LT 6-cylinder - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Carguy999 - July 12 - 2:53 pm

  I originally bought this car to commute 76 miles roundtrip to work. Very comfortable, very reliable, very fuel- efficient. 70% highway driving has yielded an average of 28mpg. The only repairs needed have been a couple of recalls and a steering fix common for this generation of Malibus otherwise just oil changes and tire rotations. Not an exciting car, but very, very practical. I had intended to sell it now that Im retired, but Im re- thinking that. A far better value, and a much better car, than my wifes 2006 Toyota Camry.

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  Problems, problems, problems - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By nadlem1 - July 12 - 10:00 am

  4 steering colums,3 brake jobs , 1 muffler and 1 electric mirror Is the summary of the problems I had to live with during the last 8 months.

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  Malibu anti-theft malfuction - 2007 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Rebecca - July 9 - 4:36 pm

  I only have 4000 miles on my Malibu car and I have an anti theft malfunction. The car just dies on you and you have to have it towed to the dealership each time it happens. GMC has not offered a recall on this problem and there are hundreds of complaints online about the same problem. Im not happy with it because of this problem and also because once youre on the freeway you cant have the windows open as you can with Fords and other cars. The car starts vibrating and making an awful sound so you have to shut the windows. This was a very costly experience and I regret changing from 40 years with Ford.

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  Stranded in Nova Scotia - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Malibu - July 9 - 6:43 am

  In all honesty the 2003 Malibu has been fairly reliable, except for rotors. I made the mistake of getting the rotors machined back to smooth, all this did was to give the rotors a shorter life. Replace rotors if they are warped, do not machine. Its now in with a suspected fuel pump problem. The reason its at the Canadian tire is I went to the local Chev dealer, and explained I had a loose connection on a wire leading to the fan motor, a simple repair, at $152. I was furious and got the bill reduced substantially. The air conditioning never worked satisfactorily from day one, it cooled but was never cold. The vehicle was just transport

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  Solid car for the money - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Granite - July 6 - 12:26 pm

  My first V6. Great pickup for the highway or accelerating. Will coast at 40-45 no problem. Fuel economy could be better, but it stays very consistent 25-29MPG city or highway, which isnt bad for a 10yr old V6. MPG will start to drop if low on oil or coolant, but top them off and it picks right back up. Very comfortable interior, a 3-hour drive doesnt feel like it in this car. Heat and A/C work fantastic. No problems in the coldest winter or hottest summer.

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  Malibu Falling Apart Slowly - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Malibu not so much - July 5 - 8:56 am

  So when I purchased my car it was in top shape. Now I take care of my car. Never a mile over 3000 without an oil change, I pay to have it cleaned. Now the problem with my Malibu is that the parts to the interior are inferior. The less expensive plastic breaks on dash with the tap of passenger knees. The gas cap sensor has gone out at 55000 miles. I have replaced blinker bulbs on 4 occassions and have only had the car to a little over 1 year. Power and comfort a plus, If only Barbie could see her Malibu now.

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  My Malibu LS - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Chevyman - July 5 - 8:49 am

  I purchased my Malibu after a long 3 year battle with my 2001 Saturn L-200. Great car only issue is a slight dash rattle between 50-62 mph other than that its great. Fuel economy is awesome. Great power. Roomy interior. I noticed one individual stated that Chevys are junk and that he was going back to Toyota well go, buy foreign and push our country into more of a recession. This car is a good value no matter what way you look at it.