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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  A Good Deal - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By bassmanarcher - February 15 - 10:00 am

  Great car for the dollar good hwy miles per gal.

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  A Very satisfied customer - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By abankshhn - February 15 - 10:00 am

  I never would have imagined in a million years that I wouldve purchased a Chevy Malibu. I love it! I love the way it handles, and total package blows away any car in the same price range in my opinion.

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  Great Deal - 2007 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Gohtraw - February 9 - 8:20 pm

  When I went to buy a car, I had a few in mind. My original list consisted of a Camry, Accord, Malibu, and an Altima. The new Camry was well, a Camry. The only V6 in my price range was the LE (good luck finding one with a V6), thats not much. The Accord was refurbished but basically the same car from 4 years ago. The Altima was a skiddish car and I would have been buying a used 3.5. The Malibu SS had everything I wanted except a sunroof, standard. 18in wheels, 4 wheel disc, abs, side airbags (5* crash test), sport suspension, remote start, climate control, cruise control, three spoke wheel. Since it was a really big dealership needing every sell it could get, I was able to haggle it to 22k!

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  Outstanding Buy - 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
  By hunt0694 - February 9 - 9:16 am

  Anyone who believes that GM cant build a quality, fun-to-drive car at a resonable price should try the new Malibu. Ive had a lot of cars but nothing this good for the money. I had no intention of getting a Malibu until I test drove it (I was set to buy a Camry.) The Chevy won in ride and performance, and interior styling was way better than the Toyota. And the deal being offered made it thousand less. I know everyone talks about how the Camry delivers more on resale, but youre paying way too much up front. And the Malibu is way more fun to drive. If youre on the fence about buying a mid-size car, do yourself a favor an drive the Malibu.

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  Nice car, right price - 2007 Chevrolet Malibu
  By dan - February 6 - 8:58 am

  Nice car for the price value. Surprised at standard options in a low priced car for its category. The seats are very comfortable. As Im 5-4" with the standard feature driver seating adjustments a taller person would be just as comfortable. Rear seating is roomy and comfortable. I am dissappointed however with my overall city driving mpg. I currently am getting 21.5 mpg and I dont drive over 35 mph. Does this car require a "breaking in period" to realize the advertised 24mpg, or better?

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  Malibou has worst breaking system - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By barr0104 - February 6 - 2:00 am

  The brakes on this car were awful, the inside breakpad was wore down to the steel and the outside pad was at 85%, I have heard nothing but bad things about these aluminum break pads.

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  This aint no Camry - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
  By PJB - February 4 - 10:08 pm

  Had the car for a long term rental. Thoroughly unimpressed. Really sluggish acceleration. Transmission not ver responsive especially in reverse. The car wallowed like an overloaded boat even with only two people in it. Decent interior room but not much more to say on a positive note. Suffered seriously in comparison with our Camry and Sonata.

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  Lo and behold - 1999 Chevrolet Malibu
  By nomorechevies - February 2 - 11:13 pm

  I bought this car because I got a deal. Im on this site looking for a new car and felt I owed it to anyone thinking about a Malibu to say dont do it! I was surprised to see that everyone on here has had similar problems. Head gaskets, coolant goes down without a leak, heat/AC only works on the third or fourth setting- first two burnt out, went thru wheel bearings left and right, I have put more money into this car than I paid for it! I thought I just got a lemon, apparently so did everyone else who bought it. It was comfy, pretty good on gas, and nice to drive. When it was actually running. Or not in the garage with 5 mechanics around it who couldnt pin what was wrong with it.

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  Too many electrical problems - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu
  By Bob - February 1 - 4:25 pm

  Too many electrical problems. Turn signal intermittant, noisy steering column, horn blows constant, removed horn fuse to stop horn. Dealership, Chevrolet should be accountable for these problems. This was a GM certified program car. This is first GM purchased and the way I look at it, will be the last! Buy American products and get junk for your money. Not good business procedure! This was a good looking car.

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  A great mid size car that checks all the boxes - 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
  By BTM - January 24 - 5:37 pm

  I read a lot of reviews and drove several cars before deciding to lease the Malibu. While I have only owned this for a little over a week, I am very happy with my decision. It is very quiet and comfortable. If I had to sum the car up in one word I would say it is smooth. Also, it is averaging 33mpg with mixed highway and city driving which is good for a car with this much interior room, trunk size, etc. The 1.5L engine definitely has adequate acceleration in any situation I have driven in including interstate driving. Since I have only had this a week, I cannot report on its reliability but I will submit a follow up in a few months. Overall I believe this is a very good choice for anyone looking at a mid sized car.