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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Better than Average - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
By Ken W - May 28 - 8:13 pmPurchased on a Friday in Aug 2004. Left for a 3 week plus driving vacation on the following Monday. Averaged 28 MPG through all terrain. Put on over 4000 miles over the time period. The only drawback I have discovered is the RAPID decline of the initially GREAT ride. I would compare the initial ride to an Infiniti, but now its like any other car I have owned.
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We love our Malibu - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
By Spencer - May 17 - 9:48 amBuying the Malibu was a complete accident. It was dark on the car lot and we werent looking for a Chevrolet. The interior and exterior styling and the roomy interior blew us away. We have put 30,000 miles on the car in two years, long distance and local miles. It has a peppy 6 cyl. engine. Visibility for highway driving is wonderful. We get 38 mpg on highway driving - almost 500 miles to a tank. (no lie) I can drive it from southern Ohio to Buffalo before filling up. It camps: Rear seat folds down and makes enough room to take 2 people, the dog and all the camping gear for several days comfortably. There was a steering column issue- replaced free no more troubles.
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Sometimes, surprises are good things. - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
By VB - May 8 - 11:56 amI was in the market for a mid-size sedan last summer, as my previous car had become unbearable uncomfortable - Im 61, and I used to drive a Corolla. Now, my Malibu is nowhere near as good on city MPG (19 as opposed to 26), but it also has an engine twice the size and weighs 600lbs more. The highway is a different matter, though I average 31MPG when I cruise at 70-75MPH in my Malibu. That is phenomenal for a big V6...my old Corolla got 37, but was pushed around by the wind. The power around town is good, though. Id recommend it in a heartbeat for a students first car, or anyone who wants some comfort.
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"love and hate" - 2001 Chevrolet Malibu
By "love and hate" - May 7 - 10:32 pmI bought this car because my father had one. If I would of known what I know now I promise you I wouldnt of bought it. Dont get me wrong I love the car but I have had many problem with brakes (abs), power steering pump, head gaskets twice, but at the end of the day I really do love to look at it and drive it. The power and style make up for all the headaches and I figure Ive put too much into it to give up on it now.
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New Chevy Malibu - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
By Ken7 - May 1 - 12:16 amAttractive styling for a midsize car. Lots of features are standard. Very good pricing. Wonderful ride. A joy to drive.
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Love my Malibu - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
By Ashley Brewer - April 14 - 7:08 pmLove this car so far tons or room
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I will only buy Chevy now - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
By only chevy for me no - April 7 - 4:00 pmI just wanted to let anyone out there thinking of buying one of these cars to do so. My daughter wrecked mine into a pole head on, the airbags went off, and she didnt have a scratch on her, she walked away unhurt.. This car was built sound and tough and my daughter is living proof. I want another just like it.
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Fun car - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
By doug - April 2 - 5:16 amIm 59 years old and this is not my first new car but it is the best car I have ever purchased. Much more fun to drive then I expected. Its quick,quiet and smooth.
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first time - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
By KTM450 - March 23 - 2:00 amThe car is an affordable sporty sedan with headroom that Honda and Toyota can not match. We love the shift by wire thumb control, using compresion to hold us back going down hill and aproaching stop signs. If you do not feel like the hassle of shifting the breaks are more than adequate. Passing acceleration from 65 mph - 85 mph is impressive. Ergonomics are excellent. All of the controlls are visible and accessable. The trunk has plenty of room for safety equipment and CHRISTmas gifts.
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$24 Grand! This Car Exceeds Expectation - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
By Darren Roker - March 16 - 8:16 amYou gotta be kiddin me! 24 thousand, and this vehicle rides, handles, feels every bit as good as my wifes BMW 3 series, which cost almost double! The gas mileage and quiet 4 cylinder engine are truly the best I have witnessed to date.
