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:
Showing 271 through 280 of 408.00-
Hatchbacks are great!! - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By Kit Gerhart - June 6 - 8:20 pmI bought my car new in 2006, and it has been great. The seats are very comfortable for me on long trips, and, while not a sports car, it has plenty of power and handles well. I got the LTZ because I wanted a few gadgets like HomeLink that werent available on cheaper trim levels. The gas mileage, while not great, is at least as good as could be expected for a car this size and power. I get in the low- mid 20s in mixed driving, and 29-30 on the interstate going as fast as I can get by with. The reliability has been great; Ive had no problems in 3 1/2 years of ownership.
-
Mew Maxx - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By js - June 4 - 2:36 pmThe great gas mileage with such a powerful V6 is what sold me as well as the front and rear legroom. Test drove many cars, imports as well, and couldnt find many with enough front leg room for a tall guy like me, but its in this Maxx. Value with rebates and features remote start and side air bags.
-
Maximum Maxx - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By Saler - June 2 - 10:00 amJust returned from a 4,000 mile vacation in this car. Gas mileage was better than expected-- especially in the hilly terrain of Pennsylvania and Virginia-- 36 MPG! Plenty of pick-up climbing hills and passing. Still cannot believe all the adjustments on this vehicle. I can customize almost everything to my own liking. Comfortable long drive, with drivers lumbar support and adjustable seats. Love the features on the steering wheel; can maneuver everything with your thumbs without taking eyes off the road.Could fit a lot of cargo and still be able to see through back window.
-
Great car for teens - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By JwSugar - May 29 - 9:23 amThis is a great car to carry things as well as people with good fuel economy. It has great pick up and can pass with ease. I drive 120 miles to work everyday and I never feel like Im in a small car.
-
Gone to the Maxx - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By BC from GA - May 6 - 6:20 pmI was looking for a car for my 50 mile commute each day. I need something comfortable and economical. My Dad has a 92 Corsica with almost 200K miles and gets great mileage. I looked at Honda (owned 3), Toyota, and Nissan (currently my wifes car), and Hyundai econoboxes. Was astounded at the gas mileage from the V6. Very comfortable car. I have the maintenance done when required (the car tells me!) and that is it. Has great sound system and love the moon roofs in the back! I went from a Lincoln Town Car (another great car for the money and mpg to boot) to this and the ride is almost as plush. The ABS and Traction Control are wonderful. I love my Malibu Maxx & plan on driving 4ever!
-
I love my Maxx! - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By Christiekersch - May 6 - 3:50 amI have driven my car for 2.5 years now, and I absolutely love it. I drive quite a bit for work, and put on about 25,000 miles a year. I was fairly skeptical about buying a Chevy, but I decided to buy one since my Uncle works for GM. The extras in this car are unbeatable. The moon roof in the back and adjustable back seats give passengers a boost in comfort. I have had the dashboard vent "flutter" and the sun visor rattling issues. However, I took the car to the dealership and they fixed both under warranty. I have also had difficulties with the braking system. I had major rotor warpage at about 20,000 miles, and they fixed the problem under warranty. No problems since.
-
Bring it Back - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By daisydal14 - May 3 - 2:42 pmBought this car new and only have 93,000 miles on it. I have been hit once in the left rear quarter panel and had it repaired back to new! I was getting 37mpg on the freeway for the first few yeas but I am still getting 35mpg today. In town is not so great. I absolutely love this car! I really enjoy driving it either around town or on the freeway. Still has great acceleration. Have only replaced thermostat, serpentine belt and brakes and a spring. Muffler has a small hole in it which is not surprising - in Wisconsin. Everything still works (knock on wood). The remote fob broke but I am getting it fixed at a jewelers as it needs to be soldered.
-
Great car - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By Colon Proctor - April 25 - 12:36 pmThe car is a pleasure to drive. Mileage is over 31MPH highway and over 21MPH in the city. The hatchback is excellent for baggage, etc. I have driven more expensive sedans and vans in the past but this car more than meets all of my expectations.
-
Enjoyable - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By Kristine - April 24 - 1:30 amIve had my Maxx for over a year. I love the power and on a 3000 mile road trip the mileage was as good as my old Honda Accord. Overall its a great car. I think I wouldve gotten a better deal if Id waited until it was on the market a while longer. Minor problems include the rear sunshades snapping, rear passenger window bumping when you open it, and the front passenger often hits the heat button for the seat on entry (not fun in the summer). Occasional hesitation on start up happened a lot at first (the dealer claimed its Chevy thing) and a recent problem with the wipers.
-
Arizona review of Malibu Maxx - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
By Frank S. - April 15 - 10:00 amNo problems to report, no quality issues. Finding the V6 has plenty of power. Ride and handling are great for a car in this price range.
