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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  Better than I expected - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Biff - September 10 - 8:16 am

  Having owned Volvos for ages, I was a little apprehensive about buying a Chevy but I couldnt turn down the deal I got as a GM supplier. The Maxx is a good, solid car. Yeah, some of the interior materials are a little basic and you can tell where they saved a few bucks, but it gets the job done. I love having a hatchback. Really handy. You can put a LOT of cargo in this car.

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  A great family car - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By MaxxLover - September 6 - 11:30 pm

  Our Malibu Maxx has proved to be a great family car, loaded with unexpected features which enhance its utility and appeal. From delayed door locking to remote starting capability, there is lts here to enjoy. While I have seen some critics of the cars electric steering, it feels fine to me, a former BMW driver. The interior is spacious and well designed. All in all you will enjoy driving this car - and it looks good too.

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  Bought new off the lot - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Fred - August 6 - 5:10 pm

  The Maxx is a comfortable and smooth ride. It handles well in-town and quietly on the road. All of the controls are conveniently located. The 60/40 back seats fold down for much needed extra room. However, the markings for the radio buttons, power windows & locks and power side mirrors deteriorated quickly with use. We have had several bouts of electrical problems causing 2-3 week stays at the dealership while they tried to figure them out. Power locks are sluggish. Cloth interiors show stains and wear easily even with dealership treatment and cleaning. The back seat levers broke within 2 years but there were no further problems once replaced. Fuel line needed repair in 2008, too.

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  Great value in a fun little car. - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Maxx02360 - August 1 - 3:26 am

  After a month of driving, I am really impressed with this little car. It handles well and is very responsive. I have the LT with heated leather seats, remote start, climate control, power sun-roof, 6 CD in dash stereo, DVD player, etc... Totally loaded. A 2004 leftover, I paid less than half of what I spent on my last car. I admit that the deal I was able to make had a lot to do with me buying this car. But, this car is a real sleeper. This is not a car the will impress your neighbors, unless they got to drive it. Anyway, Ive already got the impressive car in the drive way. (Our other vehicle is a Yukon Denali XL.)

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  Saved my Life - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By sarabellacooks - July 24 - 4:30 am

  I bought this car after falling in love with it at the dealership. It was sporty enough to rationalize the "station wagon" style hatch back. It has a great stock sound system and all the features were great for the price. The thing that impressed me about this car is the fact that, when I blew a tire after running something over on the highway at 60 mph, hit dirt and rolled it over twice, I was able to walk away with nothing but a small bruise on my shoulder. This car saved my life, and I recommend it with the highest regards!

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  Beths Mal Maxx 2004 - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By lusherbe - July 12 - 10:00 am

  Overall, pretty happy with the car...low payments for a reliable car that has great get up and go.

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  Maxx - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By gto222 - July 9 - 6:03 pm

  Bought a new 2006 Corvette at same time. Maxx is my work vehicle. Gas mileage is low (approx 22 mpg overall), performance is great. Suspension can be a bit tricky near the limit. Brakes were typical Chevy, poor. Replaced with aftermarket calipers/disk/pads. No surprise here as almost all Chevy brake systems are weak. Overall, very nice car for the money. Maxx will run circles around all the midsize sports sedans until you get into M3s, S4s and turbo stuff like a WRX. I am happy.

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  More than a Econobox - 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Toyota&Honda Owner, - July 6 - 8:46 am

  The Malibu Maxx was a complete surprise to me. My prior experience with GM rental cars was terrible. The Maxx combines a good blend of features, performance, fit and finish, reliability, and flexibility in a compact package. My initial attraction was 0% financing, but after 12000 miles I can recommend the Maxx for your daily driving needs. My car has zero defects and repairs. The chassis is stiff, and the Maxx handles well. There is plenty of low-end torque for a little fun in an econo-box. The rear passenger room is enormous. My sons said that they like the car because it is “little on the outside and big on the inside.”

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  Performance+Utility=Sick - 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By harjohn4 - July 2 - 7:20 pm

  I bought this car with right around 30k. It was a lease turn in so i know it was treated well by the previous owner. Being an American car guy chevy has been all I have ever owned. I was tossing this car up with a mazda 3 hatch. This car had a much smoother ride and a ton more power, SS package sold. Ohh yeah and it had plenty of space for my bicycles to fit without needing a rack.

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  Incredible Car and I Dont Work for Chevy - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
  By Maxx JAdore - June 27 - 4:09 pm

  This is an old car by now so theres nothing I would say to new (used car) buyers. Im here to go on record to say that I have never never had as reliable and easy to maintain car as this Malibu Maxx. Im amazed at the bad reviews. Did I get a Supercar by mistake? I have had Mazdas, Olds, Fords, Dodges, absolutely nothing compares to the performance of this cheap little car. Bought it for 14K with 35000 miles. Now has 237000 miles and DRIVES EXACTLY LIKE IT DID ON THE CAR LOT. I cant explain it. Its only had regular maintenance. Still got it at 260,000 miles. Runs like the day I bought it. Had the AC replaced. Nothing else major. Whats up with this Miracle Car?