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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  Malibu of Shame - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Brent Evans - July 13 - 6:02 pm

  I bought a used 2009 Malibu LS for my daughter and have had nothing but trouble. Recall after recall for some odd reason does not apply to my car and Ive spent well over $1000 to replace steering column, power steering, stability control, traction control module. The biggest joke on these cars is replacing the front headlights because you have to take off the front end to get to the headlights to replace the bulbs. I was determined to not take it to the dealer so my son and I found a YouTube Video and 1 hr later had one replaced. This is ridicules because on my Honda and Acura it takes me all of 3 minute tops!!! My stereo also quit working so I ordered one for a reasonable price on E-Bay but as you might imagine its not just a swap. No that would be way too convenient. You have to schedule an appointment with the dealer to have it programmed which is around $45 labor charge. The Malibu is a great looking car and has good styling and features BUT Chevrolet and their engineers should be embarrassed they have produced such a mechanical FAILURE!! Chevrolet should recall every Malibu manufactured from 2009-2012 and admit the created a "LEMON"!

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  On the cusp of 300,000... - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Dansker1 - July 8 - 6:56 am

  ... pleasurable miles of driving:+)}}} This is my second review on this vehicle, did one in 2014.............just took in for 295,000 check up, all I can say it is amazing. Had oil gasket replaced three months ago for the first time, burns virtually no oil (most driving is highway). Has plenty of pep, but needs new shocks...........my chevy mechanics have asked me if I will sell this vehicle to them, after I am done with it! Minimal replacement of parts, had new ball joints put in a couple of months ago, and brakes, other than that, nothing has gone wrong. As said before, I would buy another in a heart beat..............with 295,000 miles on the odometer the care has a negative value (just dont tell that to the car)...........happy owner, had chevys since I was in high school..........1949 fastback pea green, and paid a whopping $50.00 for it (it ran great for two years, the tranny went) should have kept my 1958 Impala two door, paid $800 for it and today it is worth $80,000, but who knew!

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  Very Happy Customer - 2014 Chevrolet Malibu
  By mrsblack - July 1 - 11:01 am

  Came from a 2003 PT Cruiser. I just bought my 2014 Silver LT Malibu 3weeks & I love everything about it except for the start-stop engine and one small thing the base of the seat, besides those 2 small issues the car rides very smooth quite to outside noises. I have three children, so its just enough room for them in the back w/ a car seat & enough space for my 61 husband in the front. I love the glow light in the front interior which lights up @ night. This Malibu looks so much better than the older ones, the space, the drive, the look exterior & out. I was going 90mph & didnt realize it, thats how smooth & comfortable the ride is. Glad to be part of the Chevy fam.

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  A good car - worth the value - 2011 Chevrolet Malibu
  By ehicks87 - June 26 - 10:26 am

  All around good car. I do about 80% highway driving and get an avg 31 mpg. People have to realize that this car is not a powerhouse if you drive it like a high school-er you will be disappointed in your gas mileage. Treating your car nice goes a long way- tires-brakes-suspension-etc. Anyways, theres something about this car that makes me miss driving it when Im in another vehicle. Especially my wifes dodge dart turbo..... Man that thing is a piece of crap.

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  Good basic sedan, but not a top choice... - 2015 Chevrolet Malibu
  By jeffyb - June 23 - 8:36 am

  1600 miles on my 2015 Malibu LS company car so far. GM has made many improvements over the years. My 2009 Malibu was not a reliable car. For a good, basic family sedan, the 2015 Malibu is a decent choice. Its fairly comfortable. Acceleration is good. Gas mileage running about 28mpg avg so far. Exterior looks great and the new standard aluminum wheels are nice. Paint is nice as well. Much improved over older GM quality. Modest handling. FM reception terrible. Rear view is awful. Many blind spots. This is all great unless you just happen to test drive a Honda Accord, Mazda 6, or Nissan Altima (among others). I would recommend any of those over this car if it was my money on the line.

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  A decent mid-size sedan - 2014 Chevrolet Malibu
  By ark15 - May 27 - 7:27 pm

  I had leased this back in 2013, and I have the LT1 trim level. So far it is a solid ride, as I commute to the next city on a weekly basis. It rides smoothly and the transmission is very smooth. I wanted a sun roof, but it was going to cost extra so went with remote start instead and it was a good trade off for the Ohio winters and gets through the snow easily.It has a very sharp exterior design but I noted that the rear door trim is coming apart, and the paint scratches very easily.Interior wise, things are laid out nicely and I love OnStar and MyLink but the chrome interior is annoying.

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  GM wants to nickle and dime monthly subscriptions - 2014 Chevrolet Malibu
  By zebu - May 22 - 12:13 am

  Pro: Great Car, CON: Pushy People Running GM. GM is very aggressive about putting nice features in their cars that you have to pay for with monthly subscriptions like On-Star and the new WiFi in the car. A Garmin NUVI that cost be $150 does a far better job at navigating than the OnStar service you have to call in and get your destination address understood. I want to see it on a map display. The WiFi in the car is expensive and unnecessary too, my Apple iPhone will make a hotspot if I need one. Just try to refuse or cancel either, OnStar will beat you up and make you feel stupid. Dealing with Comcast is more pleasant.

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  UNRELIABLE DANGEROUS CAR FOR A CHILD!!!! - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By kat9478 - May 4 - 12:04 pm

  I purchased this car for my 18 year old daughter. Less than a year after owning it, the ESC light is on, the Power steering light, the ABS and Traction Control lights are on. Everything that was recalled on other Malibus is wrong with this car. Chevy claims it is not part of the recalled cars, even with the same problems. In the meantime, this car is scheduled for service to repair everything wrong with it, and after that, Im trading it in on something more reliable. This car is dangerous, and if you are thinking about purchasing it for a child, RUN, dont walk away and purchase a different one.

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  V-6 Malibu 2009 - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Raymond G. Hansen - April 30 - 12:44 pm

  V-6 auto, all options except tire press. monitor. Amazing highway mileage,36MPG Imperial gallon @ 110kph. 24,000 km. NO mech. problems

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  WORST DESIGN EVER!!! - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By ryanrobinson32 - April 23 - 8:26 pm

  I hate this design, I now hate Chevy and will spend the rest of my life talking against them!! I will never again buy another Chevy after this stupid design..... Not only can you NOT get to your headlights from the hood, to replace what was a quick 5 minute headlight... You know have to completely take the bumper off to replace a friggin headlight!!! Worst Design ever!! NEVER BUY CHEVY!!!!