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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  Malibu Maxximum Repairs Required - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By thirstyduck - July 20 - 5:13 am

  This vehicle is a fair amount of fun to drive, with plenty of power and good fuel economy. The hatch is convenient, and the backseat is very roomy. To date, we have had our vehicle in for numerous repairs to the front end. Poor quality materials used have resulted in replacing the rotors more than once. The entire steering column had to be replaced a few days after purchase. Last week, a part in the steering column had to be replaced at a whopping $500.00! The control arm on the front end, and the struts also went out, among other repairs!

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  One of the best Ive ever owned - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By HEATHBUSY - July 10 - 12:53 am

  This is one of the best vehicles Ive ever driven. It is very spacious, but yet when driving you have your own space. The exterior design is excellent. Like nothing Ive ever seen. Very sporty for a wagon type of vehicle. Very good handling and suspension. The power is also very good. It will get you down the road, and not to bad on fuel either . Overall this is an excellent vehicle at a resonable price.

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  Maximum Maxxx - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Saler2 - July 4 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my Maxx 2 months now and have 6,000 miles on it, so this is an update review. The car is still a gem-- handles well, gets great gas mileage, and the engineering is suburb. I get comments from everyone about how they like the look of it and they love the green color. I like that its a trouble- free car with all the features the "better" cars have... at a great price. Im doing more round-town driving now, and the car performs as well as it did on the long vacation trip. This car has it all!!!

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  Love my Maxx - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By MaddMaxx - June 19 - 7:20 am

  I have logged about 9000 miles on my Malibu Maxx. Excellent performance, great economy, and a fun car to drive. I previously drove a Grand Marquis Mercury. This Malibu Maxx is just as comfortable as my Mercury was, and a whole lot more fun! If youre looking for a stylish, economical, great performing car, I would suggest you test drive one.

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  I love this car! - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By KJP - June 13 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car used with 8800 miles on it. It now has over 135,000 miles and is still going strong! This is the most reliable car Ive ever owned! I get great gas mileage and it is comfortable to drive! I drive 120 miles round trip M-F to work and back. This car is very roomy and practical! I love the hatchback and the fact that the seats fold down. I can haul TONS in this car! This car accelerates quickly and stops fast. Blind spots are limited so seeing out the windows is easy. There is really nothing I can say negatively about this car!

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  Value Received - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Harry J. - May 24 - 1:46 pm

  Well pleased with car, but still think that seats are lackluster in appearnce. GM Division could really have done better. Rear sunroof shade can only be called what it is - cheap plastic that doesnt work. Center console storage needs a stronger hinge to prevent wobble when opening and closing. Head restraints (for some reason) tilt forward at a strange angle. I might try turning them around! Rearview mirror hard to flip for bright lights.

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  Great Car - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Lisa Mundy - May 18 - 12:50 am

  I love this car!! I can haul items I could not haul in a sedan. I have had this car full to the brim with potting soil and bark mulch, flats of flowers and there was still room for a bit more. I drive a lot of highway miles and I am always very comfortable with the seating and access to the controls. It handles great.

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  A reliable SAAB for the rest of us - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Hank Ryan - May 10 - 3:56 pm

  Weve had our Maxx for 14 months and 14,000 miles. It has exceeded my high expectations. The car is well- designed and, except for its truck front grill (an example of whats wrong, and who should be fired, at GM), well-styled. The build quality is excellent --- proof that GM autoworkers in Kansas are as good as those working in Japanese-brand plants in other parts of the USA. If this car had a Honda or Toyota badge, it would probably be the best-selling passenger car in the USA. Of course, we dont know how it will stack up against a used 2004 Accord or Camry in five years. So far, it looks like it can compete with them on TCO.

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  LOVE IT - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By DEBBIE SMITH-ADDO - April 17 - 3:00 pm

  Just purchased the LT Maxx a couple of weeks ago. Love the comfort, DVD system, dual sun/moon roofs, leather interior, automatic lights, etc. I think that Ive made a great choice. You get a luxury feeling without having to purchase a luxury car. My husband and five year old loves it also. Lots of bang for the buck!

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  Watch Out for Safety Issues - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Stout - April 15 - 5:16 am

  I have had this vehicle in the shop 10 times in last year. Rear hatch leaked and took two trips to repair. Front seat broke due to faulty seat metal. Now the steering has major issues that Chevy says their aware of but cant fixed. Mine locked up from stop position with wheels turned to right. During right turns your drivers side front end sounds like it is coming out the hood and floor board. Steering makes terrible sounds while turning. Braking at 50 mph and above the vehicle front end shakes violently. I have paper from GM service that brakes are OK. Dont by this car used. It is unsafe.