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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  Completely Satisfied - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Dave - June 14 - 10:47 am

  Were completely satisfied. Traded a 2001 Olds Intrigue, which we loved. Thought we may not like the 4-cyl engine, but it has plenty of pep and will get you off the on-ramp in plenty of time. Compared to my Olds, the interior looks a little low-class, but color combo and styling are great

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  Pleasantly Surprised - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By RichInNJ - June 9 - 10:41 pm

  Got to say I am almost in shock with how happy I am with this car. The 4 has got more pep than I expected its ultra quiet the attention to detail is fantastic the layout and interior are two thumbs up and the overall value is tremendous! Vs. the new Accord - I had rented the new Accord and this hands down just handles the road better and the interior is way ahead. Vs. the new Camry - While I like the Camrys exterior design better, I would give both cars equal rating for the interior however you cant beat the Malibus overall value. Very happy with my choice neighbors are a bit shocked I bought a Chevy based on my prior car, but are praising it and pondering one for them.

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  Excellant LTZ, 4 cylinder, 6 speed - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By don lee - June 9 - 1:04 pm

  I like the amenities of the LTZ and especially the performance and fuel mileage of the 4 cylinder, 6 speed transmission. Its now 1 year and 9,500 miles old. My driving is stop and go in town and freeway around metroplex. The red jewel exterior turns heads everywhere and it has performed flawlessly. Its a great little car and one Chevrolet should be proud of.

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  My Great Little Malibu - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By larryvii - June 5 - 4:26 am

  Great car. I love mine.

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  Great Car!!! - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Rich - June 4 - 10:43 pm

  This is one awesome vehicle,, I got the LTZ package and am loving the whole experience with this car. Fantastic comfortable interior...Smooth ride and plenty of power. Great job Gm with this car! Anyone looking for a great mid-size car...you owe it to yourself to check this out.

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  Malibu Barbie - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Barbie - June 4 - 5:27 pm

  Our black, LTZ, with dark tinted windows is very beautiful and very sexy. It turns heads everywhere. We loved it when a guy in a Cadillac CTS said "Hey great looking car!" It is fun to drive and the on star navigation feature gives us peace of mind when we are traveling. Super car!

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  I Love This Car - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By JRF - June 2 - 6:20 am

  I bought this car new in April 2008. This is my second Malibu-the other was a 2004 LT. This one is far superior to the 2004. I enjoy driving the car and have had no problems yet. I cant understand why anyone 54" would have problems seeing to drive the car-Im 54" and see just fine. The car handles fine on the highway and in the city as well. I will recommend this car to anyone. No car is perfect, but Chevy got this one right.

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  Great Car for the Money - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By krystin - June 1 - 7:38 pm

  Awesome car! I have the LT with the V6 and wheels from the Impala SS in Black Granite with Charcoal leather/suede interior. Engine is really powerful and ride is really nice. I just love the exterior, color is so pretty in the sun, and it looks like no other car. Interior is really nice too, love the dash layout. Very comfortable seats and extremely quiet. When idle, you cant tell the engines running. I was going to get the LTZ but couldnt stand the two-tone interior. LT came with everything I wanted and was cheaper anyway. Overall, I love this car and it has a lot of features that are optional and/or cost extra on other cars like the heated seats and remote start.

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  05 LS Malibu - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By 2005 LS Malibu - May 31 - 10:16 am

  Very good performance, ride quality, and stand alone styling. Excellent for family in town and great on the highway. Well thought out design and features like the fold down passenger seat are very useful.Comfortable seats on long trips. Only driven 5000km. Very happy with purchase. Excellent value for the dollar compared to the overpriced imports. Only waited four weeks for factory order car to arrive, excellent.

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  Just got my "BU" Love it - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Becky L - May 29 - 2:00 am

  Like my new Malibu.