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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  I love my car - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Lovelyone - July 21 - 5:26 pm

  The gas mileage is terrible compared to my prior Chevrolet Cavalier, but thats what i get for upgrading to a V6. All in all, the car is outstanding. Everyone, including myself, loves it.

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  "Seniors" comfort - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Minnette - July 19 - 10:00 am

  We love our Maxx. It is low enough to the ground that we dont have to climb up into the seats as we did in our SUV. We travel alot and the hatch makes packing so easy. The sound quality of the radio is superb and we love XM SAtellite radio. It was installed when we bought it; otherwise we probably would never have tried it. We love it! Can listen to CNN, Sports, all types of music channels, and even the old radio shows like Jack Benny and Amos and Andy.

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  I like the MAXX - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By ADLS - June 12 - 10:00 am

  We have only had our Maxx for a short time now, but enjoy it. We have taken a short 1 hour road trip, and found it really comfortable. We bought the LT 1SA package. Depending on the wife, I hope we keep the car.

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  Very useful vehicle - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Timesplitters - June 7 - 10:00 am

  This car will give you the most bang for the buck when it comes down to price and actual usfulness in a sedan. It fit a full size lawnmower out of the box without a problem with the rear seats folded down. With the recling and adjustable sliding rear seatsand and a sunroof, the passengers in this car will feel at home. The standard 200 HP engine has a great deal of power and low end torque. The transmission does seem to shift harder than it should when a little extra gas is given. Chevy delivers with a vehicle that has the utility, versitilty, and price to get the job done for the person that wants the extra space in a car.

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  To the Maxx - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Amazine - June 4 - 3:30 am

  Our 1994 family Mini-van had to go. Serve us well for those years taking road trips up and down the east coast. I was in the market for another Mini- van until I saw my Maxx on the lot. Never thought I would buy a hatchback or even look at a wagon type vehicle. I narrowed my choices down to the vibe (too small),the new Mazda 5(first year) and the Ford Freestyle. I just love the Maxx from the very first test drive. It has alot more power and it handles extremely well. I went with the LT over the LS, it was money well spent. The heated leather seats, fog lights,traction control,volume controls on the steering wheel,manumantic,the fold flat rear seats are fantastic.

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  Might Maxx - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By michael j. mcdonough - June 1 - 8:16 am

  My Malibu Maxx has proven to be a real surprise by its versitility and gas mileage. Adding space by using the shelves and seats as needed, it has the capacity of much older station wagons with great gas mileage. The sunroof and control features make driving fun. Its V-6 has plenty of power because of its low weight.

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  max 31104 - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By hawks - May 6 - 10:00 am

  INTERIOR ROOM COMPAIRS WITH FULL SIZE CARS PERFORMACE AND GASOLINE ECONOMY OUTSTANDING GOOD HANDLING AND VERY QUEIT PERFECT HEATER AND AIR CONDITION CONTROL FLEXABLE USE OF CARGO AREA

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  Great mid-size car - 2007 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By kagohio - May 2 - 7:56 am

  I have had my Maxx for 6 months and put 15,000 miles on it due to my commute and the Maxxhas impressed me every one of those miles. The seats are comfortable, the ride is smooth and quiet and most of the controls are easy to reach and read. . . and the sterring wheel radio controls are great. Have not been to the garage except for 2 oil changes. The rear wiper is great in the rain and snow to keep clear view out the back.

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  Maxx is fun and zippy - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Bradley P - April 25 - 10:00 am

  Im having a ball driving this head- turner. I traded my 2003 Trailblazer because of its bad gas mileage in-town and highway (never better than 16-18 mpg). The 2004 Malibu Maxx LT has met all my expectations--it really does get 32 mpg on the highway and it really hauls! I am having run zipping around town and sieze any opportunity for a road trip. Love the roomy interior with space for me and four friends and the cargo room is exceptional for a midsize car. Get one and get fun!

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  Great vehicle - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Frank Hemphill - April 16 - 5:06 pm

  I bought this car for my wife...she loves it, and so do I. It has all the bells and whistles including a DVD.