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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  A great switch from an SUV - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Pulsifer - June 27 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I decided it was time to trade in our SUV. After looking a little we spotted the MAXX. It was a great alternative to an SUV due to the large storage space in the rear and better MPG. We would highly recommend this car to any family. Only wish we would have gotten the optional DVD player for our child.

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  Liking this thing more and more... - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By csandste - June 13 - 7:20 am

  Boy-- two months ago, I didnt know Id be driving one of these. First test drive seemed a bit too large (I was coming off an Elantra), plus I generally prefer a 5-speed. However, the overall balance of the car, plus its tremendous flexibility means that its a pleasure so far. Car and Driver and Edmunds both knock the engine for being an OHV throwback to earlier times, but the engine seems very responsive-- if not overly smooth, and gets great gas mileage for a 3.5 liter-- within a mile or two of my Elantra. The electric steering has also received knocks, but I find the feedback and overall road feel very good for a car of this size. Maybe GM is getting better with the 05s.

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  Laser Blue Malibu Maxx SS - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Nate - June 2 - 7:50 pm

  Love the engine power and options. The contrasting stitching on the seats and steering wheel is nice. Its an extremely versatile vehicle that has great performance and fuel economy. On average, I get about 22 MPG with mostly highway driving (pretty acceptable as the 2007 is rated at 24 MPG highway). The Laser Blue looks great but, according to my dealer, is hard to match if you need paint work done. After 1.5 years, Ive only had to deal with a burnt out taillight bulb. I didnt really like the sunroof deflector that was made of a mesh material, so I removed it and put on the factory sunroof deflector from the 05 Malibu.

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  6 Years this December 6th. Great!!! - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By 007maxxtruck - May 31 - 2:44 am

  Ive had my 2006 malibu maxx LT V-6 For almost 6 years and it has been the best car I have ever owned. Its about at 93k and its still going strong. The quality, handling and performance, and everything about this car has been just GREAT!! Its pretty fast too!!

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  Great Car - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By uscfan05 - May 25 - 3:33 pm

  I bought used almost 4 years ago and still love my car. It has lots of room and space, even passengers in the back seat have plenty of leg room. I love how the rear seats lay all the way front ward like a SUV to give you more space. Ive even put a live Christmas tree in there with no problem. Love how the car tells you when to change your oil and when certain fluid levels are low! This car is great for every age group. Im in my 20s and love this car but it also has plenty of room for a family. Rides smoothly and turns just as smooth. Back seat riders also love the moonroof. Traction control is great as well.

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  Good Value Car - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By aramf - May 24 - 4:35 pm

  I bought this one used at 60K miles. I currently have 120K on it. Chevrolet replaced the steering wheel on it. The left blinker burned out too often, untill I replaced the whole light from partstrain.com. Over the last 3 years mpg has been suffering. Recently two oxygen sensor went bad. Replaced both. The average mileage went back to 32 mpg from 24 mpg. I assume that both have to fail before check engine goes on. My front rotors tend to warp a lot. One thing that helps is not to use parking breaks. But I can got fast around the corners, it has a kicking accelaration and mpg has just improved. It is a nice semi-wagon with a strong enough engine for fun things.

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  I love it - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By D Wilferd - May 19 - 7:13 pm

  This is my second Maxx and I cannot imagine owning anything else. I love the ride and the drive of this car. It is comfortable and so much fun to own. My daughter and granddaughter love the rear DVD and stereo system, which are very helpful on a long trip. The dealership has been extremely helpful with any problems we have had with either car. I love to brag on this car whenever people ask me about it. It is so versatile. I had the windows tinted and added splash guards which gives the car an even better look.

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  My new car - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By BigAls87Z28 - May 15 - 10:00 am

  I first saw the Maxx, and was very happy to see a good looking and powerful 5dr hatch in Chevys line up! I didnt want something big like the Magnum, or too small. The Maxx is just right! Good power and handling from the Epsilon chassis, and plenty of down low power from the 3.5. I would like to see a "SS" model with teh 3.9 and 6spd manual in the future.

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  Yes, Buy American - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Ben - May 12 - 6:10 pm

  Love the rear seat leg room and the adjustable/reclining seats. I drive 39 miles one way to work and average 30.9 mpg. The car has alot of top end power. The manual shift option on the trans is great for those steep downhill drives you dont need to ride your brakes. The best feature is the remote starter, nice for those cold mornings.

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  Malibu Maxx 2005 wow - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Malibu Maxx 2005 - April 27 - 7:20 pm

  I was reluctant to purchase this vehicle due to several reasons. However once sitting behind the wheel and driving it, I was immediately sold. This is by far the best car I have ever purchased, in the meantime I have test driven many different make and models for comparison. None can reach the Maxx with its performance level and comfortability. It handles very well even with high speed, acceleration rate is excellent. One of those secret jewels, once you drive it youll love it. In 2.5 years twice in garage for warranty covered issue. Suggestion: purchase leather only if you have children or buy waterproof seat covers. The light beige cloth material stains very easily. Stains won`t come off.