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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  I absolutely love my car! - 2007 Chevrolet Malibu
  By bm231 - October 26 - 9:19 pm

  Im a full time college student and live an hour away from school, & I also work 30 minutes away from home. Living in MI, where our winter roads are treacherous and youd usually buy a vehicle with 4WD. My car has never failed me and has always been 100% reliable, even with a 1 day drive across the nation to FL. The only downer Ive experienced is my gas Guage being broken on E.

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  Chevy all the way - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Juana la Cubana - October 17 - 9:55 pm

  I bought my chevy at a used dealership. I saw the car and knew that car was going to be mine. I purchased the car at 91k miles. Now at 140K miles I havent had a real issue. The car was and is well kept with the oil change,breaks. Only thing is that the accelerator is kinda slow to pick up to a high speed. Changing the car light is a pain in the butt. Chevy was charging me 150.00 to change one light bulb because they had to remove the whole bumper. Lucky we know a guy who knows a guy that had a shop. We ended up paying 50.00 to change 2 light bulbs which isnt bad at all. Love Chevy. We have a Malibu and want a Silverado !!!

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  no acceleration/ headlights a pain to change - 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
  By janel alderman - October 8 - 7:17 pm

  you have to take off the whole bumper to change out the headlights. normally costs $5.00 to change normal headlights, this one over a hundred dollars. chevy must be supporting body shops and giving them more business with no regards to the owner.

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  2015 Malibu Rental Car - 2015 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Mat - October 7 - 7:04 pm

  I rent very often due to work. I think this is the first time in long time that they gave me a Malibu. Most of the time I would ask for something else. It has been a disappointment. Like someone else stated, the drivers seat is one of the most uncomfortable car that I can think of. You are sitting so low that you cannot see over the dashboard. If you raise the seat, your right leg has to press down on the seat to reach the pedals. I guess this car is designed for long legs. Anyway my biggest complaint is the steering. I strongly suspect this is because it is a rental and has been abused but the steering give a step change whenever I turn it slightly right. This is extremely dangerous but I was too lazy to switch it out.

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  Terrible Product Quality - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Bill - September 28 - 5:51 pm

  Door locks two down and two to go....at $300 a pop, passenger airbag failed just before warranty went out and chevrolet they never fixed it tire pressure sensor failure, headlamp replacement is a human factors nightmare....have to remove the entire front end to replace a headlamp bulb.

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  Do not buy!!! - 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Robin Campbell - September 24 - 1:00 pm

  If you are looking to sink a ton of money into your car, then by all means this is the car for you. The steering rack and gear completely bound. The exhaust camshaft also needs replaced at just 65,000 miles. The 2004-2009 malibu had a recall for the steering rack, but they refuse to include the 2010. The same part is used, but they wont do a thing to rectify the problem. Complete lemon of a car. There is no power, the interior is falling apart and the handles are peeling. The seat belt in the rear was also replaced.

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  120,000 long, expensive miles - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By trophel - September 23 - 10:18 am

  Heres a summary of how this car has done so far, with 120,00 miles on it after being bought brand new (6 miles) in April of 2009 (6 1/2 years ago). Keep in mind I"m a neat freak who washes his car daily, doesnt smoke, and cleans the inside weekly. Its a 4 cyl, 6 speed auto, LT2. The Traction Contol Module / ABS module has been replaced 6 times! Yes, its been recalled now, but has been replaced twice since then, too. The transmission completely failed (wouldnt shift out of 1st gear) at 94,000 miles. New one installed under warranty occasionally slips, too. Both brake lights have been replaced. This is an easy fix. Both headlights went out the same day. This does require removing the front bumper as indicated elsewhere on here. Cost was $200 per the pair. The radio occasionally stops working. Bluetooth capability hasnt worked since the most recent reprogram by the dealer. The rear door locks must be manually activated on one side (passenger). The key fob failed at 8, 000, 15, 000, 22,000 miles, then the transmitter unit on the car itself failed at 60,000 miles and hasnt worked since. Now the car can only be unlocked manually on the driver door. The leather on the shift handle began wearing off at 100,000 miles. The leather on the driver seat began wrinkling at 90,000 miles and has completely torn since then. The turnsignals wont shut off automatically after making a turn ... sometimes. Sometimes they do, sometimes they dont. The power steering sometimes fails for a few minutes, then begin working again. The engine, however, has worked very well. Original battery, original belts, no oil use. ,

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  Makes me smile ! - 2015 Chevrolet Malibu
  By John ODell - September 22 - 9:26 am

  I bought my Malibu LT about 2 months ago and I love driving it ! It has great acceleration, and engine noise is minimal, handles great and feels very secure when driving. Other things I like : huge trunk space, awesome mileage - 33 mpg overall, Chevy dealers everywhere if needed-even rural areas, ambient blue lighting at night, remote start for Wisconsin winters, back up camera for parking and safety, road hugging , interior/exterior fit and finish, styling, concealed tail pipe, value for the money, buying experience at my local Chevy dealer- no hassle or games. Things I dont like so much: no spare tire, complicated My Link ( I hate reading a manual ) , FM reception, thats about it 😀 Overall, I would say this car should be driven and checked out if you are looking for a good looking car that performs well, can be serviced almost anywhere, and is a great value for the money.

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  Great Car - 2015 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Sean G - September 16 - 1:46 pm

  First Id like to say that the negative reviews seem to be from people whove rented the car (and know nothing about it), bought it used, or are weirded out by the Eco 4cyl engine. I bought my 2015 Malibu LS new after trading in my 2006 Malibu LT. I love the start/stop engine which cuts the engine off after you brake for extended periods of time, then cuts back on after you let off the brake. quite a few cars have this set up, you hardly notice it and it saves a good deal of MPGs. Especially if youre in traffic!! As a bonus you still take off just as fast if not faster than you would had the engine still been running. The trunk can be opened via key fob or a small button on the middle tail light when doors are unlocked. Its a huge step up, just the amount of space Im used to in front and back-its a bit more snug in back, but the trunk is a bit bigger now. if youre a fan of Chevy, want a midsize sedan with a some "getup and go", a bit of style, and want good MPGs this is the car for you. If legroom in back is an issue, grab an impala.

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  dont buy!! a waste of road space - 2015 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Larry Ingram - September 15 - 1:45 pm

  this has to be the most uncomfortable car ive ever driven, i actually traded a cobalt that i wish i had back, im a long time chevrolet and long time GM customer, i will never buy again, this car is junk, GM offers no support, i was actually tol "too bad, you bought it" "maybe you should have shopped more" no way to treat a customer if you ask me.