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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  Dependable - 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
  By John Gordon - March 5 - 11:57 pm

  have gotten up to 35 mpg per tankful on some roads. Has been dependable and very low cost to maintain.

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  Malibu shows its age - 2002 Chevrolet Malibu
  By dcsc08 - March 5 - 9:52 pm

  My Malibu developed ignition problems just after the warranty ran out. Brakes are poorly designed and underpowered. Now at 80000 miles, it developed a cooling leak in the manifold which necessitates that the manifold gaskets be replaced at a cost of over $1200.00

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  Dissapointed - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Tex - February 28 - 11:40 am

  Purchased car to support American economy and ingenuity after 25 years of foreign purchases. Found that the car has hidden flaws. Rear side panels become detached by a slight push inward. Took it back to dealer and I was told it was designed to come apart at impact. Cannot believe engineers would think this way after decades of safety improvements. The dealer also found out the most of its other Malibus on the lot had the same defect. I am very dissapointed, especially after what I had heard about the vehicle. I am very hesitant to buy "American" again, especially after the local dealer has been very deceptive after discovery of this problem.

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  Nice design but poor reliability - 2001 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Phil - February 24 - 3:40 pm

  I really enjoy driving this car, but the reliability has been very poor. This year/model apparently has a very poor brake design. The cars brakes had to be replaced 4 times in 64000 miles (including new rotors on 3 occasions). Other reviews describe the brake problems in more detiail. Have also had numerous problems with the engine including a bad head- gasket, thermostat, and other random issues. Have also had problems with the AC switch, the blinkers, and the windshield wipers. Despite the comfort of the car the reliability makes this car a real bummer.

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  I want my money back - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By cammy - February 24 - 10:00 am

  I feel I spent too much on this car. I have a 2000 STD Malibu. I bought it for 12,000 with 31,000 miles on it. Everywhere I go I see this car and wonder why everyone has the same color as I do (maroon). I took it to the shop a month ago and found out that I need new tires. But of course, I cannot get the tires that they have on sale, oh no. Chevy decided to use oversized useless tires . I have to pay $300 for two tires that none of the brands will put a warrantly on. I still have not changed the old tires, and now they seem to be wobbling. On top of that, the engine is now starting to make a funny noise. I am scared to find out what the problem may be.

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  Great for Teaching 2 Teenagers to Drive - 2000 Chevrolet Malibu
  By RR - February 22 - 4:03 pm

  Rented one and loved the performance. First 50,000 miles no issues. Then had to replace manifold gasket and fan control twice. At 100,000 the manifold gasket, air conditioning compressor, and rack n pinion need replacement. Still gets over 30 mpg on long trips but typically 16-20 mpg in suburban driving. As usual, Chevy had a good idea that was executed poorly.

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  Hi Ho Silver! - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Silver - February 21 - 9:26 pm

  We looked at new cars and used, import, and domestic before buying our silver Malibu and havent regretted it one second. It is a program car so we know that its probably been driven hard and fast but it held up and is holding up. I believe mostly due to the maintenance required for program cars. There was water in the spare tire well when we bought it but the dealer had her cleaned up in a jif. The dealer thinks maybe the trunk gasket leaked while setting on the lot. We did have several inchs of rain. Ive driven it once while raining and saw a cup of water in the trunk. I think its from tire spray. It looks like GM put silicon on the joints of trunk floor where the tires are. We love our silver Malibu and will trade for another in a couple of years. Thanks GM for keeping us American!

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  Awesome - 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
  By PAT - February 16 - 8:43 pm

  This car is awesome! Beats the competition. So many standard features. 6 Airbags, stabilitrac, onstar, satellite radio. The turn by turn navigation system is so easy to use. No map discs to buy again. No screen to have to stare at. Smooth acceleration and super quiet inside. People are staring at my car when I stop. Nice job GM!

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  Chevrolet Knocked This One Out Of The Park - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Shane - February 16 - 11:48 am

  I own the 2016 Malibu LT with the Convenience and Technology Package and the car is absolutely amazing! First off, the exterior is gorgeous! It draws a lot of eyes and for good reason. The interior is extremely spacious and comfortable! The lumbar support is great and the room in both the front seats and back seats is amazing. I have had multiple adults in the back seats and they all comment about how much room they have. The technology within My Link is great and easy to use. My Link also enables Apple Car Play which is an amazing feature that just adds that much more usability to the entertainment system. On top of it all the 8" color display looks amazing! Performance itself is also very nice! You wont win any races but there is a little bit of get up and go in it. The start stop technology is also very seamless, as long as you dont try to hammer the gas the second the light turns you wont experience any problems with jerkiness some people talk about. To top it off Ive consistently gotten better than the estimated gas mileage both in town and on the highway! Overall, Chevrolet really has out done itself with this car and it is one of the best if not the best in the class. I also test drove a Ford Fusion and Honda Accord before deciding on the Malibu.

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  Love my LTZ! - 2007 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Tom - February 15 - 9:16 pm

  I have owned my car for a little over 4 months and the more I drive it, the more I like it. I love all of the feaures on this car, especially the remote start and heated seats. The car drives very well and has a lot more room than you would expect for a mid sized car. It drives great and has handled all sorts of weather including snow with no problems. It truly is a really nice car with a lot going for it!