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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To the MAXX! - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By browntravis - April 10 - 11:50 pmI researched this vehicle extremely well. The European body styling really makes this car an eye catcher. People always stop and ask me what it is and compliment on the styling. The 3.5L V-6 engine makes for smooth, powerful ride. This car is very roomy and the back seats slide back, forth, and recline. Very cool! Definitely some great standard features. Great sound system. Standard rear moonroof, traction control, and power driver seat. This car is an all around good choice for persons of any age or family status.
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One of the best Chevys ever. - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By Jim Cox - March 31 - 1:10 amThe only thing I would add is all wheel drive and maybe a convertible top.This is one of the best Chevys Ive ever owned. Fit and finish is spectacular. Mileage is mid to high twenties.Fold down back seat and hatch back offfers room like a wagon. Really a great car.
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Love My M&Ms BLU - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By M&MsBLULoveIt - March 29 - 8:46 amThe car is fun to the max and is a great value. It is like blue M&Ms. Very unexpected and heavenly to the senses! I got mine loaded, and one of the few Laser Blue 2005s in my area, anyway. The other colors were kind of dull but I would have bought one anyway for the features I got for the money. I had a 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix I traded for it. I was longing for the pep of my V6 1999 Grand AM. The Max LT more than fills the bill.
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Who Needs an SUV? - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By derberg - March 25 - 8:26 amWe bought our Maxx because its light enough (3,600 lbs.) to tow behind our motorhome. Its also quick, versatile, roomy and economical (23 to 36 mpg, according to the optimistic readout). At 26K miles it had brake rotors turned and the steering rack replaced under warranty. Those are the only problems so far. The Maxx is an excellent alternative to heavy, thirsty SUVs, but Chevy hardly advertised it at all. The new Malibu should have a hatchback version but doesnt because GM spent $billions on crossover SUVs and now must sell them. Itll take Toyota with its Camry-based (I think) Venza hatchback, coming late this year, to sell the concept. We Maxx folks will then look pretty smart.
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Former Ford owners fall for the Maxx! - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By Donna - March 11 - 12:03 pmWas dreading our transition from bigger vans to car, due to perceived lack of room. Was on a Ford lot looking at used cars and saw the Malibu Maxx and was drawn back to it over and over. Finally gave in and went for a test drive and was SOLD!! Couldnt believe how many luxury features and sportiness the maxx has.We have never driven a more fun vehicle. The back seat area is SO ROOMY and the back sunroofs are fun too. The many ways to arrange the back seats for extra cargo room are great.We are so happy with everything about this car.
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600 Mile Review - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By Seacove - March 8 - 8:16 pmPurchased 10/31 and just hit 600 miles this week. Had a Sable wagon, and after discovering that you cant find a 8 passenger vehicle other than minivans or SUVs, went with the 5 passenger Maxx as a compromise on mileage and passenger/storage versatility. I liked the look of the Maxx first time I saw one on the road (and cars dont usually turn my head), and finally figured out last week that the reason is the styling is somewhat reminiscient of my 1980 Fiesta Sport - one of the best cars I ever owned. I put off buying one until the 2005 model, due to the obvious need for spoiler and rear wiper on hatchback models. This is my 2nd ever GM vehicle (Avalanche in 03), and both are winners!
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What a steal! - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By Pat - March 4 - 12:36 pmLooked for car to replace 2002 Tracker. Looked for SUV room without the price and found this. Eureka! Loved the hatchback design and room. Bought car with 15,000 miles for $13,000.00. Just returned from 3,500 mile trip to Gulf Coast. This car is awesome. 30 MPG (with a/c on most of the time), solid, quiet, roomy, comfortable, power when you need it. I could go on and on. Local Chevy dealer sent a letter saying theyre interested in buying the car. Good luck, this one stays in my garage. As other people have said, why didnt Chevy promote this car. In my opinion, no home should be without one.
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WHO KNEW? - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By rogerw5 - March 2 - 6:47 pmBeen driving a Nissan for a while; went to a dealer to check out used Nissans. Walking through the used lot I spotted a 2005 Malibu Maxx; another customer behind me told me "best damn car GM ever produced". Took a test drive and bought it without hesitation...that was 7 years ago. Had the tranny rebuilt...only major fix in 7 years!! Getting ready to buy one for my granddaughter (college student)...she wanted mine...I gave her driving lessons and she also took her driving test in my Maxx. I just went over 133,000 miles! I want to be buried in it!
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8,000 miles strong - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By MaxxFaxx - February 26 - 9:06 pmI bought my Maxx last July, and now have over 8,000 miles on it. Every bit as good today as it was driving it home the first time. Great gas mileage, versatile, comfy, reliable. Bought this car to use as a "van" at the Worlds Longest Yard Sale in Tennessee last year, and it didnt disappoint. Theres acres of room for storing and moving, which has come in handy again and again. But I like it because its a "ladys car". You dont have to jump or climb to get in or out of it. Its got more room than many SUVs, but drives like a ladys car... plus has a ton of great features.
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Hurray for Domestic! - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By Red - February 22 - 10:20 amThis is the first domestic car Ive purchased. Before this, I was in Honda Civics and VW Jettas. My wife was interested in this car for the increased room for our family. At first I was turned off. Im so very pleasantly surprised. Bought it with 30k, now has 62k. Interior styling is very functional and surprisingly stylish. Exterior is about as sporty as you can get for a four door hatch outside the Audi. Rides like a very substantial car. There is a crazy amount of space inside, so much more than youd think from the outside. My friends are also surprised and we enjoy tooling around in it. Im excited that Chevrolet made this car, its a boon for domestic automobiles.
