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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  Brand New Malibu Maxx - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By amyjo248 - April 10 - 10:00 am

  I waited 3 months for the Maxx to be launched and love the cool features! I wasnt sure about driving a mid size sedan after a convertible but it is a lot of fun to drive - a perfect choice. My son loves the moon roof over the back seat and likes to recline the seat on long rides. I like that he has the legroom and doesnt kick me fidgeting to get comfortable.

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  What A neat car - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By LaneN - March 4 - 9:20 pm

  My Maxx is one year old. No problems at all. Have made two vacation trips, amazing but true; 34 MPG highway, loaded with luggage etc. Runs at 70 MPH plus like a charm. Rides as good or better them my 2002 Buick LeSabre. Love that movable rear seat. People ask me about this car because it looks so neat. Wish I had purchased the step up model. When this one reachs about 12,000 miles will get a more up scale model, leather, etc. This one has a sun roof that is fun to use. More people should check this car out before buying other family size cars. Again, great car, great mileage. Im lovin it.

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  my first maxx - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By blueoleander - February 24 - 8:06 pm

  I bought a 2006 maxx ss model BRAND NEW in sept. 2009. For all you maxx lovers there is one more left, brand new in silver, ss model with dvd player, onstar and 2 sunroofs. Anyway, smooth quiet ride, lots of power, nice interior, awesome AC, lots of features. I like the adjustable gas/brake pedals, you can move them closer to you with push of button!

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  The Malibu Maxx is underrated! - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Eric - February 21 - 6:23 am

  I have been driving my Malibu Maxx for almost 4 years now. I live in the Buffalo, NY area so Im used to driving in poor weather. This car did excellent in the bad weather. Also the features in this car are unbeatable. Cruise control, remote start, heated seats, OnStar, XM radio, adjustable pedals, front and side air bags, traction control, 6 cd changer, car information computer, power sunroof, 30 MPG. The best part, not one thing went wrong in the time I have had it! Flawless! This car is a sleeper for sure!

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  Best car Ive ever owned - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Larry - February 8 - 7:20 pm

  Im 78 an owned many cars in my lifetime. This is the best handling car ever. I love the tracking, all the mechanical and innovative features, especially the remote start in the winter and in the summer. It heats the car quickly in wintertime and cools it down in the hot summer days as well. The wide opening doors were helpful in the back to assist my wife (who had alzheimers) to get in the car. Just a great car!

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  Bang for your buck - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By gordon shumway - January 15 - 10:00 am

  i had mixed feelings on this car until i drove it for the first time. it drives as well as much more expensive sedans and has a powerful engine for the price. the cargo room is plentiful and rear passengers have as much legroom as the driver. a blast to drive for $20,000.

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  SMARTEST CHOICE - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By mrfunybuny - January 10 - 12:06 am

  Gets awesome fuel economy. Going 55mph on a flat highway, after the car was already warmed up, I was getting 38-41 mpg. I get 31.8 doing low 70s on hihgway w/ moderate inclines. About 26 with regular suburban driving. I think the car has so much power GM probably could have emphasized fuel economy even more. I think GM was smart to make this engine a pushrod style, simpler, more fuel-efficient and more reliable than DOHC.

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  We like it! - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By CPTBK124 - January 9 - 10:00 am

  We traded our 2003 Ford Expedition for the Maxx for better fuel mileage. After driving the Maxx for almost 12,000 miles; our family enjoys the ride, comfort and most importantly the fuel economy. We still miss the Expedition, but we are reminded we made the right choice when we are at the pump.

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  GM got it right - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By tallmug - January 1 - 8:26 pm

  The interior of this car is excellent and very functional. My family of four fits great. The leg room in the back seat is great. I was tired of my daughter in her car seat kicking the back of my seat in our Saab. I used the car to transport an enormous amount of junk the other day, and it fit wonderfully. The only complaint is the plastic interior materials need to be of a little higher quality.

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  Love this car - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By lrogers - December 24 - 6:36 pm

  I have had my Malibu Maxx for 1 week now. I love how it handles. it has a great smooth ride. The extras are great. My shades do not seem to roll back into their holder, they just hang. I really like the car.