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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  Look and Drive of More Expensive Car - 2002 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Frank Provasek - November 2 - 9:52 am

  I bought this car new for $16,000. Everyone who I showed it to and let ride in it guessed $22,000 to $25,000. Average 24 MPG with 3.1 litre V-6.

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  2006 Chevy Malibu LS - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
  By albert raposo - October 19 - 3:33 pm

  My 2006 Malibu is a wonderful vehicle. My gripes about it are that it came with no mats and the gas gauge is of low quality. It is a very spacious style. My friends even tell me that it looks like a luxury car. I have it in the dark blue metallic color. wow! At night time it looks black, and in the shade its a dark navy blue. In the sun its a sparkly cheerful blue. My car is a 4 cylinder and it gets as much mileage as my old 2002 Nissan Sentra. For a base model, this car is loaded with features.

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  New Malibu - First Impressions - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By MIScouter - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Purchased this vehicle last week and have put about 250 miles on the odometer. Chevrolet may have a winner here. Havent considered a Chevy in 22 years, but it stacked up well against the VW Passat, Honda Accord, and Mazda6 that we also considered. Pushrod V6 provides plenty of power (200 HP) and lots of torque (220 ftlb). Loaded with useful features and plenty of room (101 cu ft EPA passenger space). Averaging over 22 MPG in mostly city driving so far. Chevys attempt at a "manu-matic" shift lever needs work. 4th gear cannot be selected in manual mode.

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  Plesantly Surprised - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Jay Mack - September 20 - 1:32 pm

  I drove 3 Hondas and 2 Camrys with 100K- 120K miles. They all showed every mile and were priced from $6K - $8.6K. Bah! Way overrated. This Malibu with 105K mi. for $3,200 with house warrenty. He fixed brakes and a spring. Drives like a new car! Much tighter than any of the imports I tried. This is the best car deal Ive gotten. It gets an honest 26 mpg. Sound system is factory upgrade and very acceptable. Nice, functional interior. I like the 4 cyl. twincam just fine. More power than the competition. No flaws yet. Great car. Im pleased and getting another.

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  Chevies are comfortable - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Judith Greski - September 16 - 10:38 am

  Had unusual repairs on car, i.e. rack and pinion steering replaced, ignition troubles and sunroof malfunctioned.

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  Great little car - 2002 Chevrolet Malibu
  By mm - September 15 - 11:56 pm

  Have driven it for three years and it has not been in the shop for anything other than a burned out headlight. Has been very dependable and is really a nice car on the road as well as in town.

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  Decent Car - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Decent Car - September 9 - 3:24 pm

  Replaced brakes four times in five years. Now have 140,000 miles still mostly reliable. Have had problems with drain on electrical system. Brand new battery will die if car is not started every day. AC switches off and on until car is warmed up. Have replaced water pump. Serpentine belt tensioner fell off while driving when car hit 139,000. I have always done my maintenance so it has been mostly reliable. Now that mileage has gotten high it is time to get a new car.

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  Supposedly reliable... - 2001 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Savannah - September 8 - 4:32 pm

  My husband and I bought our first "new" car, thinking that it would be dependable for me to drive to work. In the past 3 months we have spent around $1,500 in repairs. The A/C is cutting on and off, the theft system is going haywire (the car doesnt start unless the doors are locked, and sometimes the doors unlock themselves while on the road, which cuts the ignition off), the brakes had to be replaced, which I was told has been happening w/ a lot of Malibus, and the ignition starter and module had to be replaced. Also, water was leaking into the floorboards b/c of the windshield not being sealed properly. We are very disapointed in this car. Next time well buy a Toyota or Honda.

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  2003 Malibu 4 DR. Sedan - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By LGR14481 - September 8 - 12:22 am

  The 2003 Malibu has been a ok ride. The only major problem since Ive owned it has been the brakes anywheres from 8- 10,000 miles alway needing work, recycled rotors, replace pads etc. I have replaced with remaned calipers, that included new pads, I feel it has done some better with anti-seize on the slides as far as the leangth of time between pad replacement? The brake problems appeare only in the front end,due to poor design, not so much in the rear? I love the 3.1 engine power, it has and pickup is great? The Malibu is a comfortable ride, with pleanty of room for five passengers? The arm rest has a tendency to loosen up over time I believe due to poor design? Told 2004 & 5s are better?

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  2006 Malibu SS Reality Check - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Teds Reality - September 4 - 1:59 pm

  This is a hot new ride that offers a LOT for the money. Only in Teds dreams, however, does he get 30-40mpg with a 3.9L V6. Chevrolet only rates it 18-23 or so. After market parts might allow one to milk it for another 10-15%. Make no mistake, this is a comfortable but gas guzzling ride with a lot of punch under the hood.