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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  Exited New Owner - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Alan Jackson - January 29 - 3:03 am

  From comfort,convenience,safety, and just eye appeal GM has done a wonderful job with the Malibu Maxx. The projected mileage is arriving quickly. We are at 26+ for a mix of city and winding country two lane driving and the odometer is only 745mi. The engine has loads of power and the 112 inch weelbase provides a smooth stable and predictable ride.

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  Versitle Car - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By dec1010 - January 25 - 11:53 am

  Change the seats and the steering and this would be an awesome and versitle family car. The drivers seat is very uncomfortable, and I have had four major steering repairs. The flexibility, leg room, and adaptability are the best Ive seen on a car in a long time. I average 28 mpg overall in a large car with a 200 HP V6, which makes a family car economical and powerful enough to satisfy most people.

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  Solid mid-size, great price - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By CPIDANY - January 15 - 3:33 pm

  I have nearly 10k miles on it and the Maxx has been a great car. For mostly highway driving I have been getting between 27-31 mpg. The interior may lack some design elements, but I dont like the "wood" look, so I am pleased with it. It rides well and there have been virtually no creaks, etc. The two aspects to consider are, the width of the trunk is not as wide as on a mid-size sedan, and a smaller issue is the shades on the rear window snap in the wind. A small modification I made has fixed it for me thus far. You will notice during a test drive the car will need to downshift rather quickly - but if you need to get moving, it will get moving. The electronic steering works well

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  WIFES NEW CAR - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By BILL984 - January 12 - 10:00 am

  GM PAID ATTENTION TO ALL THE DETAILS HERE. QUITE IMPRESSED WITH THE STANDARD FEATURES ON THE LT MODEL. DID HAVE TO TAKE IT BACK FOR "CHECK GAS CAP" ERROR. ORDERED NEW CAP.

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  Happy with Choice - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Happy Chevy - December 20 - 8:56 pm

  Have had for over 2 years now and has always been reliable in the snow/ice or heat/rain. Had steering shaft replaced because of weird feeling when turning or going over slight bumps. Factory warranty took care of it. Love storage in back as I sue it frequently to haul yard trash to dump site, haul lumber, fishing equipment and radio control model airplanes. Gas mileage is excellent compared to wifes new Buick LaCrosse. Rides comfortable and get very favorable comments from my buddies on looks and ride.

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  luvmymaxx - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By mymaxx - December 6 - 10:00 am

  I bought the LS with 1SB package. Im 62" have more leg room than in my Venture van. This car is quiet and comfortable. I love the way it handles and performs. I drive narrow winding single lane country roads where the need to pass is important. The Maxx has no problem going from 55 to 80 within the short passing zones. Its made driving back and forth to work fun again. For under $20,000, I believe this car has an excellent price/performance ratio.

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  Problems already - 2007 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Mike 123 - December 5 - 7:16 pm

  I purchased this car used from a dealership, with 32k miles on it. I also own a 2005 Malibu sedan. I immediately noticed a clunking sound coming from the steering column when turning the wheel at low speeds. This is a sound I also noticed in my 2005 Malibu. I took it back to the dealer and they had to lubricate the intermediate shaft in the steering column. The shades to the sunroof also broke, so they ordered new ones for me as well. The car is comfortable, rides well and has good acceleration with the 3.5 liter V6. I dont understand how some people here are getting 29 mpg however, because I am getting about 18 mpg in mostly city driving. Disappointing mileage.

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  Maxx Versatility - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By G Fogle - December 4 - 5:40 pm

  Only major complaint is window guides that cause squeeking when raising/lowering windows. Had to dealer twice. Power is decent, mileage on highway exceptional - up to 34.5 mpg.

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  Neat Car! - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By derberg - December 2 - 11:26 am

  The Maxx is probably the neatest car weve ever owned -- quick, very roomy, fairly comfortable, very good on gas, and distinctive in styling. Hatchback sedans are a great idea: Recently we hauled home a 42" big-screen TV, still in the box, which fit right thru the hatch opening. After helping to load 70 parcels into it, a guy at my American Legion post asked, "What kind of car is this?" GM didnt know how to market the Maxx, so didnt sell many (but watch how well the new Toyota Venza sells). However, a common problem is weak steering gear; the rack was replaced under basic warranty, and the intermediate column for $100 (there must be a service bulletin on this)

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  Disappointed - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Bob - November 28 - 2:16 am

  I bought this car new in 04. After 1 year, it started to give me all kinds of problems... steering noises, suspension, brakes, you name it! Recently I needed a ball joint. Apparently a $50.00 replacement couldnt be found! It was also discontinued. A replacement cost me $300. I drive about 24,000 miles per year, not hard miles though. Cant wait to get rid of it.