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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  But a better car. - 2007 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By buzzcut73 - February 27 - 8:18 pm

  I have owned my Maxx since early 2008. I have had many problems with this car. The front end shakes violently when braking (I tried new pads, discs, tires, resurfacing, inspections...etc...) The Maxx has electrical issues with wipers, fuel caps, temp sensors, map sensors, security system, etc... I would recommend considering a different car. I am surprised this car received the accolades that it did, there seems to be no reason to own it.

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  A very cute car! - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By ladygreeneyes - February 27 - 2:00 am

  Love the cars interior, comfortable, easy handling, visual ability...unfortunately the stats on fuel mileage by the manufacturer are not accurate...they state 22 city/30 hwy...Im getting 17+ to 19 Hwy. The dealer service is telling me I "have to break the car in...give it at least 1200 miles". I didnt have to "break" my Impala in...it was right on the money!

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  Maxx=Maximum Versatility & Value - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By MadMaxx - February 16 - 10:00 am

  Wonderful car-fast, smooth, quiet, and very airy/roomy. Versatility is AWESOME. Great MPG: averaging 28.5 in 20/80 city/hiway driving, and have hit 32.8 on 5/95 (at 65mph). Value-paid $14,299 after rebate for my 04 Maxx w/floor mats.

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  Im back after 23 years - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Joe Rand - February 9 - 5:56 pm

  This is the first Chevy I bought since my 1982 Z28. The fact that its been that long tells you what I thought about Chevys "quality." Over the last 3 months Ive looked at the Mazda3, Audi A4, Subaru Outback, Baja, and Impreza, Mitsubishi Outlander, PT Cruiser, and the Saab 92x. All nice vehicles in their own right, but with all the rebates thrown at you it makes the Maxx the best value. I like the versatility. Most of the time Im the only one in the car, but at times I need to haul 4 more around. This car does that comfortably, plus I can get my bike in the back. The bells and whistles for the money are great. The back seat room was a big factor, and there is a ton of it.

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  New Malibu is excellent. - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By zipster - February 7 - 9:10 pm

  I said I would never buy another GM product. After being a lifelong GM customer I had a bad experience with my last purchase. I shopped all the foreign makes, Honda, Toyota, and even looked at some Fords but when it came right down to it, the design improvements and quality fit and finish of the new Chevy Malibu won me over. This car is awesome! It handles and corners wonderfully. It has quick acceleration and the 4 wheel disc brakes respond quickly. My only complaint so far is the rear window wiper that is inoperative but should be repaired on the first dealership visit. I recommend that everyone check out Chevy, because they are designing and building quality cars again.

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  My favorite of all - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By TJENKINS - January 26 - 6:53 am

  I was looking to buy a crossover SUV like a Nissan Murrano but when I found the Maxx I looked no more! I get the feel of a crossover with the fuel economy of a car and the safety of not having having the roll over risk! I thought my son would love the moon roof in the back but in fact he loved the console in the back seat and the many cup holders! I bought this as a used rental car and it was very well taken car of.

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  Aging well - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By cs - January 9 - 5:16 pm

  Update as I approach 90,000 miles-- probably the best car Ive owned (out of 30+). Had the infamous steering shaft replaced shortly after warranty expiration, and it looked like it might fail again last year, but it must have healed itself. Other than that, its been reliable and an extremely comfortable, flexible car. Took me several months to get used to electric steering, but once you get used to it, its fine.

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  Overlooked and underappreciated - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By jnem - January 8 - 4:30 pm

  I went in to the dealership to buy a Malibu sedan but after looking at the Maxx I was really impressed and bought it instead. This was a low mileage program car so I got a very good deal on it.The Chevy dealer was great to work with, repairing a few small items necessary to qualify as a Chevrolet Certified Used Car. The car gets great mileage, 28 mpg mixed hwy and city driving. I find it to be very comfortable and quiet with excellent power. I love the hatchback and the rear seat design is the most comfortable rear seat I have sat in due to its ability to recline. The driver area is quite functional and ergonomically comfortable as well as easy for me to get in and out.

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  So many things to say... - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By christiehall - December 16 - 7:10 pm

  Where to start? I bought this car from a used car lot in October 2011, with just over 100,000 miles for $6,500. The seat frame needed to be welded, and the other side did later. The water filter needed replacing, the belt broke in November 2011, left front wheel bearing broke in January 2012, air conditioner broke in May 2012, right front wheel bearing, spindle, hub cap, and others melted together in November 2012, as well as left front wheel bearing breaking again, back seat handle is broke, two remotes, CD player is jammed, shakes when braking, cruise control half works, etc. etc. Bad car, dont buy!

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  Best and Most Versatile Vehicle Ever - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By JON - December 11 - 12:56 am

  Chevrolet have got it bang on. The vehicle has power with great fuel economy, wagon cargo space with nice styled lines. Perfect family vehicle, DVD player in the back keeps the little ones happy and quiet. Great versatility with being able to fold all seats flat to increase storage, as well as the back seats being able to slide forward and back and tilt for great back seat comfort. Loads of leg room front and back. Power foot pedals, seat, roof, windows and locks make things very comfortable. The oil life monitor meant that my first oil change was not until 12,000km so very economical for service and also environmentally. Has been very reliable with a bulb being the only thing to replace.