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:

• 

  Change the brakes and check the oil - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By wdowns9 - June 26 - 10:00 am

  Replaced brakes 3 times in the first 15000 miles, had rotors turned twice once at GMs expsense. The next time the dealer refused to do anything so I went to another. They turned the rotors for me..no charge. Transmission went out at 41000, major overhaul no replacement. Went out again at 44000 no replacement. Dealer replaced my rotors, brakes and did a bunch of other technical bulletin work without any problems. Car runs well but Im always suspect of the transmission after its two previous failures.

• 

  Expect more from the Malibu - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Hans - June 22 - 10:56 am

  After driving the new Chevrolet Malibu for three months I feel that it is truly a better car than I expected. It is comfortable, quiet and has good road handling characteristics. The fuel economy is good and the 4 cylinder engine is very smooth and quiet. I found the Malibu by accident when renting it for a trip. I am happy I did before buying another foreign car.

• 

  Wifes new 06 Malibu LS 4DR - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
  By MalibuJeff - June 13 - 9:55 pm

  The new Malibu LS was a compromise between a new Toyota Avalon (price), Hundi Sonata (she didnt like the way the interior felt), and the Mercury Milan (wasnt available at end of year with options she wanted, and had OHC belt driven engine that didnt match the bus highway gas mileage). The O6 bu ran out very well when test driven, but developed irritating rattles after about 1000 miles, which the dealer fixed. At the first cold weather, the heater vent control motor started to howl, which again was replaced on warranty. Other than that, no major problems to complain about.

• 

  A Pleasant Surprise - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Cal from SLO - June 13 - 6:05 am

  I had a 2016 Chevy Malibu rental for two months while my Subaru was sidelined due to unavailability of airbag parts. I was initially disappointed to be assigned an American make, as I am more than happy with my Japanese makes, a Subaru and a Honda. However, the Chevy proved to be a pleasant surprise. It was powerful and handled beautifully. Indeed, in 60 years of driving, I got my first speeding ticket because I didnt realize how fast I was going. Moreover, the seats were comfortable and body was tight and rattle-free. My only slight disappointment was the gas mileage. My best mileage, with mostly highway driving on level land, was 29 miles per gallon.

• 

  Great Car - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By KMH - June 12 - 11:16 am

  I am not a buy American for the sake of it being American consumer. This car is extremely smooth, has great pick up, and is a great car. I have owned 2 Camrys and this car is every bit as good if not better than those cars.

• 

  A very solid car, great gas mileage - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Wisconsin Driver - June 10 - 1:07 pm

  This car replaced my Infinity I-30, and while I have lost some of the luxury, I have gained in dependability, gas mileage, and I do like that remote start. I drive ~150 miles per day, 90% highway, and I average 35 MPG (the on-board computer shows 36.8, which is too high). Power (200HP+) is more than adequate, and hadling is exceptional for this kind of car. Currently over 70,000 miles, and no problems with the car at all. Very, very solid car - much better than any of the late GM cars I have driven. Will buy the 08, I think, when it comes out.

• 

  Pleasantly Surprised - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Very Satisfied - June 5 - 7:16 pm

  Looked at Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, and Volkswagen Passat. For the money, this was the best car. More than adequate power for a 4 cyl., extremely quiet at highway speeds, and a very smooth, comfortable ride. Suspension not too hard or soft, just right. Plenty of technology and luxury like comforts in the car (Bluetooth, OnStar, heated seats). First road trip was over 600 miles, averaged about 30-32 mpg, but I tend to drive a little fast. Car was at 80 mph, tachometer wasnt even at 2500. Putting a 6 speed trans in this car was the smartest thing GM ever did. Oh, did I mention, car is just beautiful to look at. This is my first American purchase, and I am extremely impressed.

• 

  Great car. - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By waggiecam - June 2 - 6:14 pm

  I bought this car after test driving several Malibus and I love it. The only driving that I do is in the city in stop and go traffic and I get 33 miles to the gallon with my air conditioning all the way up. I have never had a problem with anything on it and I will definitely recommend this to all of my friends.

• 

  Malibu LT2 - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Carrie - June 1 - 4:00 am

  Just bought the Malibu LT2 and love it! The interior is classy. The exterior isnt as boxy as prior models. Love the interior lighting. The sound system is good and Im enjoying the XM radio. The amount of trunk space is incredible. I really love this car.

• 

  97 Malibu Review - 1997 Chevrolet Malibu
  By MalibuFan - May 27 - 1:42 pm

  I bought the Malibu used with 40,000 miles on it. It was our second Malibu, with the first one totaled in a wreck. We drove the second Malibu to almost 140,000 miles before selling it. Overall, a good car with good gas mileage. We did replace the power steering pump, all of the front pulleys, and alternator during our 100,000 miles of use. At the time we sold it, the head gaskets were needing to be replaced (A $900 expense if done at the Chevy dealership). We would purchase another Malibu.