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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  Good Car, not perfect, but what is? - 2007 Chevrolet Malibu
  By EUV - December 4 - 1:59 am

  Has been a decent car that has been solidly reliable. No breakdowns or major problems, or even minor problems. Just a semi-minor glitch or two has plagued the car. Is comfortable and smooth over bumps, during turns etc etc etc.

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  A win for GM! - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Mike - November 30 - 10:23 pm

  This car is absolutely amazing. After taking a long road trip (over 1000 miles)in a Camry recently then driving this Malibu, I have to say there is no comparison. The Malibu felt 10X more premium and was so much more comfortable. The Camry just felt way too cheap in comparison and had no power at all especially when trying to merge on a highway. Highly recommend this car...GM has been on a roll lately!

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  Japan, Inc. move over - 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
  By malibuofrichmond - November 28 - 7:08 pm

  Two weeks ago we purchased this car for my wife and now with 657 miles on the clock we continue to be thrilled. She wanted an American car. The quality of this Malibu will stand up to any competition foreign or domestic. A recent trip over Thanksgiving saw 34 mpg. The car is solid, well equipped even as a base model one up from the price leader, very comfortable even in the back seat, fun to drive, and very well assembled. The ride is incredibly quiet with outside noise well insulated. This is in very way a quality car and proof that the US can produce world class vehicles. In its Imperial Blue Metallic finish, this car looks beautiful standing still.

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  Is this a Japanese car? - 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Cindy - November 27 - 4:20 pm

  I have only owned this car for about a week and a half and I love it already. It is the tightest car Ive ever driven and its fun to drive. I just love the xm radio. I bought the base car and it feels more expensive than it is. Im so proud of the car. I wanted a sports car, like a Camaro, as I love GM cars. This car is more economical, but fun to drive in a different way. Fit and finish has come a long way since I bought my 2003 Impala.GM is really going in the right direction. My friends who just bought the Toyota Camry were upset when they found out how much car I got for my money and how great the car rides.

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  Good when it wants to be - 1998 Chevrolet Malibu
  By bryguyknowsall - November 23 - 1:49 pm

  I bought the car back in 07 with 42,000 miles on it. Since then I had to replace the rack and pinion, inner and outer tierods. Back swaybar. Completely overhauled the braking system. The engine is still purring. Great car since I bought it with all these problems with it in the first place. Nice car lovin the rust on the gas dispenser. Love the way the fabric on the roof is peeling. But it never really left me stranded.

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  look closely - 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
  By ralph - November 23 - 1:44 pm

  Bought LT1 v4 in April -- car is great but a little lacking on power when you need to get on express way. At this point you need to use the auto stick. Fit and finish is a little off. Look at the seams in the hood mine are off. Ride is sporty and some controls can be confusing. I dont get stated gas mileage, a little less. No mechanical problems -- reliable

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  Malibu Makes the Grade - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By JPB58 - November 21 - 5:56 pm

  Ample power to get me to and from the ski slopes at much better fuel efficiency than the Jeep I traded. The LS is getting about 20 miles/gallon on a 3-mile commute to work but reaches the high-20s in highway driving. I can set the cruise on 65 or 70 mph even on a climb to a Colorado pass without causing the 4-cylinder engine to whine.

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  Love this car! - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Concord River - November 21 - 10:58 am

  Im happily surprised with the performance of my used Malibu. I bought it with about 60,000 miles last summer and have loved driving it since then. The only problem was a quarter fell into the seat belt clip and it was a little difficult to get out.

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  Are you kidding me? Again? - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By 05 Chevy - November 20 - 12:30 am

  I HATE THIS CAR! The steering goes out whenever it wants. Ive had it fixed only after 6 months of owning-yet, it continues to happen. It has just shut off on me at redlights, it pretty much starts when it feels like it. Its actually in the shop now because it didnt want to start. Oh, and the lights on this car blow so frequently be prepared to have the Autozone workers know you by name. I HATE THIS CAR! Never will I in a million years buy another Chevy or recommend this piece of crap car to anyone.

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  Wow....Love It! - 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
  By DJA - November 19 - 1:36 pm

  Last year my other vehicle had to go into the shop to get painted. I rented a malibu and did not want to give it back! The ride and comfort is awesome. It is so quite and looks great. I was up side down on the vehicle that I was driving and had to wait until now to get one. The dealership gave me a good deal on my trade and with the rebates, I am very happy. I really enjoy driving this vehicle. Get one!