Overview & Reviews

Like, um, seedless watermelon, the Chevrolet Malibu Maxx was the end result of selective, consumer-friendly design. Seedless watermelon was created because consumers love watermelon but hate spitting out seeds. Launched in model-year 2004, the midsize Malibu Maxx was created because many consumers like the utility of wagons but want the cooler look and style offered by sedans.

Most Recent Chevrolet Malibu Maxx

Hoping to avoid any potential stigma, Chevrolet describes the Malibu Maxx as a "five-door extended sedan." Built on a lengthened version of GM's Epsilon platform, the Maxx has a hatch-type rear door and a glass roof over the rear seat. And unlike the sedan that offers both four- and six-cylinder engines, the Maxx comes with V6 power only.

Its hatchback design makes loading the Chevy Malibu Maxx effortless. The rear cargo area has 22.8 cubic feet of space available (about 8 more than the average midsize sedan's trunk) and folding down the rear seats opens up 41 cubic feet. Further versatility is gained by rear seats that slide forward and back -- either side of the 60/40 setup will slide independently with a 7-inch range of adjustment. Other strengths include an agreeable ride and outstanding crash test scores.

All in all, the Chevrolet Malibu Maxx is a great choice if you're seeking utility at an affordable price -- provided you don't take issue with its drab looks and unremarkable handling. Those seeking brisker performance can choose the SS trim (launched in 2006), which comes with a more powerful engine.

Alas, the Malibu Maxx has not been a particularly popular offering for Chevy, and it was announced that the car would be discontinued after the 2007 model year. More information about the Malibu can be found here.

User Reviews:

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  I love the Maxx - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Floyd - September 15 - 12:13 pm

  I looked for a truly new and clean look and found it in the Malibu Maxx. Coupled with good mileage, comfort, and features makes this American car a great value. The V6 power plant is very spicey and makes the Malibu Maxx fun to drive. It is right up there with the Imports in all areas.

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  Thrilled to the Maxx! - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By xboxt8er - September 15 - 12:46 am

  I will have to say I am a huge truck guy, but when I got a job in outside sales it was time to lay the truck to rest. The gas mileage on this car is great, average @ 26 mpg. The ride is very good and the 200 hp v6 is amazing. The first week I after I bought it we had to make a trip to Detroit about 1000 miles round trip. I am 61 and my father in law is 63 and we both had plenty of room in the front seats not to mention my sleepy wife and daughter in the back was very comfortable also.

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  Solid Car, Great Price! - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Mike - September 14 - 10:16 am

  This car is built very solidly, much better than the Malibu it replaces. Nice touches in the center console and the power adjustable pedals and the telescoping steering wheel are nice features on a car in this price range. Good power from the 200 horse V6, seemless shifting automatic, and commendable handling. Biggest drawback is the cloth interior, which is comfortable, but cheap looking. Like most GM products, I got a big discount, and a sweet lease deal of under $200/mo. for a nicely equipped model.

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  Its like riding in a limo - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Robs Place - September 4 - 8:06 am

  Sometimes my 6yr. old and I sit in the back of our Maxx with the seats fully stretched and watch movies while my wife becomes the limo driver. The skylight in the back really adds to the overall ambience. Its never been so much fun being a passenger. I recommend this car wholeheartedly.

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  Chevys best secret! - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Kelley - August 28 - 2:30 pm

  Very well designed, I get nearly 40 MPG on the highway. All in all even around town using the factory installed remote start,over 25 miles per gallon! Electronic steering handles like a dream. Cant wait to get a new 2007!

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  A New Standard - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Stargate202 - August 27 - 2:00 am

  The MAXX is a new standard for a mid- size solidily built mid-priced all purpose car. If you are tired of the SUV ride and need some room for cargo (though nothing that is large in one package) the Maxx should be looked at. I had one of the earlier Malibu a 97. It was a good car but just plain jane. The Maxx has some style, a lot of get up and go, great gas milage and is fun to drive, all at a reasonable price. I mean 2 - 4 thousand less then rest of the pack with same options. The 6 inch longer wheelbase gives a much better ride then the Sedan model.

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  Tire woes.... - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By linda1951 - August 21 - 11:42 am

  I bought this Maxx SS with just 48000 miles on it in Jan. 2013 the dealership pushed the fact of the low miles. I did ask for a bit on its history, they gave me a page that explained just oil changes. I knew better but was hoping it wasnt to bad with repairs. My problem is the car wears out the drivers side front tire. Just that one but it will kill off the tire in less than 20000 miles. So no matter what kind of tire you put there, it wont last. So the reason for the low miles on the car, the person that first owned it just didnt drive it much. So though I love the car, how it handles and all that. I too dont drive it much. :(

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  Its about time, big bang for the buck. - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By pstone - August 21 - 10:00 am

  If you want good power and very good fuel economy look no further. This is a very comfortable vehicle to drive smooth and quiet. It is suprising that the Malibu is the quietest car GM makes? Go figure is is quieter than any of the currently available Cadillacs. Safety was a concern of mine but all the data thus far seems to indicate that this is a very safe car. I was driving a Honda Accord EX before this car which was a great car, but I think Chevrolet has been trying for years to measure up to Honda and Toyota and has never been able to get the job done until now. Now they have the better car inside and out.

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  Just bought her- luv her to death - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By jeffmiller - August 17 - 2:16 am

  So far, I am thrilled to have this vehicle. The positives are too numerous to mention all, but overall- performance in drivability, comfort, stereo, seating, utility all are an A= for this style & class.

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  Great College Vehicle - 2007 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Maxxd - August 4 - 1:53 am

  The Malibu Maxx came out of no where while searching car lots, oddly enough it had every feature I wanted and for a very reasonable price. Dont believe the in-dash MPG rating, instead calculate it out yourself. Ive found the computer is off by a large margin, including waiting at a light in the MPG calculation. I average (with city and highway) around 26-28 MPG. Great car for a college student like myself or a family just starting out.