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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  Very solid, sturdy, and comfortable - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Larry Dinkoff - February 17 - 10:30 pm

  When my wife and I were in the market for a new car, we decided on the Maxx because of the room, comfort, and standard features, (lots of them). It is the most comfortable car we have ever been in! OnStar equipped, XM satellite radio, lay back and fold down front and rear seats! We just love it! Thank you Chevy!

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  Maxx is the only way to go! - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By timbo9569 - January 27 - 12:50 pm

  Purchased the Maxx only a month ago, and ever since we pulled it off the lot have loved every feature it has. The stock stereo system in the LT model sounds great. You almost have too much music to choose from with the 6 disc changer in the dash board and the 200+ satellite stations to choose from and then you have your basic radio stations.The Maxx rides great and the kids love the DVD entertainment center in the back. We almost forget we have kids back there at times becuase they are just so entertained by the DVD system. Also love the two sun roofs. This is a great addition to all the other great features of this car. It has alot of power and handles wonderfuly. Overall a great family vehicle

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  Just a great car - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By PATIENCE - January 25 - 6:36 am

  This car is awesome. It has so many great features that come standard. Ive always recieved compliments on the sound system, and spacious interior. I was rear-ended and the car that hit me looked like it had been in a major accident, while you couldnt tell that my Malibu had been hit. This car was involved in an unfortunate incident where it went over a 35-40 ft enbankment and landed on its nose. There were 2 passengers, one wearing their seatbelt and one not, they were both able to walk away from the accident,and when tow trucks arrived and got all four wheels on the ground, the Malibu started with no problem. Theres no arguement that this is just a great car!

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  Excellent car - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Excellent - January 23 - 7:20 pm

  I have this car since jan 2004, I never had any serious problem, the mileage per gallon is excellent. I drove this car at 60 miles per hour on a wet snow condition, the traction control were impressive, never swerved.

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  Maxxed Out - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By maxxowner48301 - January 15 - 9:43 am

  I love my Malibu Maxx. It is the first car I have ever purchased, and one of the best decisions I have made. After 1 year and 20,000 miles, I have not had one problem with the car. The car has great pickup, even at highway speeds. I have had it up around 120mph, and the car didnt rattle or feel like it was going to fall apart at all. It was very smooth and comfortable. I would tell everyone to get a Maxx, except that then the market would be flooded with them lowering my value. The Maxx will begin the resurgence of General Motors.

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  masx - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By olibob - January 13 - 10:00 am

  Everthing great, better milage than expected and can live with it.

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  I LOVE my Maxx! - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By HeatherJ - January 9 - 7:20 am

  I bought my Maxx LT used with almost 90,000 miles on it. I knew I wanted this car, & I researched it & found a great deal at a local car lot. Since buying it I have had very little trouble. Replaced the thermostat within the first few months & I had to replace something with the AC & it was over $500, but that is it! Sometimes the hatch wont open, but I have figured out a few tricks to get it to work. I take my car camping, it is used for road trips, I drive in the snow- I can do anything! Everyone always loves my car once they have been it. My best friend went & bought a Maxx too- but hers is newer than mine and a LS. She likes my 04 LT Maxx better!

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  3 months now - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By scraphappy - January 8 - 10:00 am

  after looking for and researchig new cars for 6 months this fit all my family of 5 requirements at a bargin price.

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  Chevrolet has a Winner in Malibu Maxx - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Maxxrider - January 8 - 10:00 am

  The Malibu Maxx is an excellent choice for a family or single person. It has so much to offer in a very well designed car by GM. It has plenty of power with the 200 hp v6, but good gas mileage at 30 mpg since putting my first 1000 miles on the car last month. I love this car. GM should be proud to give America a quality car and great value.

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  I love My Maxx - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By mediagrl - January 2 - 10:00 am

  I just purchased my 2004 Malibu Maxx LT last week. A lot of features that are found on luxury sedans came standard on the LT; heated/power leather seats, remote start, rear sky light, and lots of safety features. The Maxx shares the Epsilon platform with the Saab 9-3 so it has a tight, tuned feel. The 210 HP-V6 engine gives the Maxx some power off the line.