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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  Great Commuter car even for tall people (UPDATED) - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Kai Ponte - July 29 - 3:47 am

  So, I have driven the earlier Malibu cars as rentals. There was nothing fancy about them. Having owned a 2000 Jetta TDI for commuting, I wanted something less cramped, noisy, smelly and with the ability to get 40+ mpg in mostly street driving. I decided between the Malibu, Fusion Energi, Fusion Hybrid, Sonata Plug-in, and Accord Hybrid. Out of all, the Malibu hybrid has the most comfort and room for me (Im 64" and have two 6 tall teenage boys.) After three months and four thousand miles, I can highly recommend this car. It handles great. It is comfortable for long distances, seats four nicely, provides wonderful driving dynamics and has great gas mileage. In spite of it being a hybrid (based on the Volt drivetrain, which is fantastic), it can get out of traffic without a fuss. The engine has great torque and yet still maintains 43 mpg overall. My only complaints are that the trunk is a bit small with the battery pack. I would like to have seen the battery in the floor like the Volt. Also, maybe bring a bigger battery so the car can run on electric a little more. So, far, Ive had zero defects and no need for service. EIGHT MONTH UPDATE: Still highly recommend this vehicle. Easy to drive, very quiet and comfortable. Ive put on 19,000 trouble-free miles with only one oil change. Averaging 39 MPG of mostly city and combined highway driving. Great feel when driving 90MPH on the open road. Occasionally wish it had a V8 like my Avalanche but then remember that my Avalanche gets 14 MPG.

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  Good, but still not a Japanese car...... - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By speedingticket2004 - July 24 - 2:00 am

  Had this car one month and have a love/hate relationship with this car. Car has a defective transmission that GM is aware of but has no idea how to fix. Car moans on acceleration which is annoying and shows that the workmanship issues at GM are still there. The other day the chevy logo fell off the car on my driveway!!!! The looks are great but the front end is just plain ugly. The drivers seat has many adjustments except tilt (the one that I need) I am very uncomfortable driving this car. I am sure this car was meant to go up against Camry and Accord but I am afraid when it comes to quality, GM loses again.

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  great car!!! - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By mhstwirler1 - July 17 - 2:00 am

  I love my chevy malibu. i did have to have the power steering replaced, they re-designed it, all malibus built before january 15, 2004 are suppose to be replaced and my brakes got re-done too.there where also 3 re-calls but i still love my car the dealer has fixed everything.

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  Not BAd - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Pete1576 - July 16 - 2:00 am

  I have only had this car for a very short time. Already been to the dealer for a defect in the headliner. Nice ride, Could use a little more power engine wise.

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  I am stuck with it! :-( - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By FRANKJR60 - July 13 - 2:00 am

  I have experienced many of the same problems as the other folks who have commented on this site. A/C has a mind of its own. Fan speeds did not work on 1 and 2. Replaced resistor ($70) fixed the problem. Alternator died at 50K miles, no warning. I was stranded for hours. Where does the coolant disappear to? I keep adding it and I dont see any leaks anywhere. Th biggest frustration has been the serpentine belt and the belt tensioner. I have had them replaced three times in three years due to the high pitched squealing noise. No one can seem to find the problem. I havent had the brake and tire problems that many others have had.

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  2000 Malibu - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By MPB - June 29 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this car for 4 years and havent had any issues. The only things to have gone wrong were fan speeds 1 & 2 on the AC broke while under warranty, and the coolant light on the dashboard came on when it shouldnt have. Other than that, I have kept up with the regular maintenance and havent had a problem. Im very pleased with the car.

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  Malibu for who? - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Big Blue Malibu - June 21 - 2:00 am

  Great Handling Great Riding AND fUN to Drive.Very thoughtful features like fold down rear seats-the latches are in the trunk.But beware of the electrical system 3 weeks after driving the car the power steering quit! Entire steering column had to be replaced-and the cd skips and the cruise control does not work properly-hopefully dealer will be able to fix the cd and cruise.

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  Strange Pricing - Love Car - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By maxriderdoon - June 18 - 2:00 am

  Like many other reviewers I love this car compared to everthing else in its price range. Car seems more refined. Drive out price was 23K after buying new tag. Dealer gave us a 3K Rebate instead of 2K with proof of ownership of non GM car - Strange I find that nowhere on the internet.

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  malibu 1998 lx - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By diskiedog - June 3 - 2:00 am

  If your are buying be aware of the following item I had to replace. Theft alarm-$350, when out at 40,000 miles. will not allow you to start car.Rotors- replaced 2 timms. Air conditioner control block-replaced at 35000 miles and 60000 miles-cost was $250 for the 2nd. Water leak on intake manifold- cost $573, this was the 150,ooo mile non replacement antifreeze chevy was proud of. Alternator-cost $241.

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  could be better - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
  By madeamistake - May 18 - 2:00 am

  i purchased my chevy malibu in november 2003 w/19000 miles for 11,999.. it was a very good bargain pricewise but i do have a few complaints. Gas mileage is not a good a GM preaches, i might get 20 mpg on the highway. also the interior is not ergomonically correct, the center console is too high and so is the gearshift. And the tires that come standard (ford affinity) are the absolute pits! they are loud, and they dont handle well on dry road. overall it is a very good car, engine is quiet, i"ve had no mechanical problems so far.