Chevrolet Malibu
A surprisingly luxurious car for the American family
The Malibu was introduced back in 1964 as a mid-sized family car. It had a strong run until 1983, when it was discontinued. It wasn't until 1997, when the Malibu was given a complete style overhaul and reintroduced in the Chevrolet lineup, that it regained its popularity.
A look back to the past...
If you're looking for a new-model used Malibu, you can choose from the fourth (1997-2003) and fifth (2004-2007) generation models. The fourth-generation models were redesigned to compete against the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. The relaunched Malibu was Motor Trend's Car of the Year for 1997. However, despite this recognition, fourth-generation Malibus were plagued by many technical issues, including A/C problems, fuel pump failures and transmission failures.
The fifth-generation models were available in the four-door sedan and the four-door Malibu Maxx station wagon. This was Chevy's first station wagon since the Celebrity was discontinued in 1996. A special SS trim was available on the Maxx with a 3.9 liter LZ9 V6 engine. The front end of the Malibu changed a bit during this generation. The 2004 model featured a chrome horizontal grill split that ran across the entire front end, which was intended to resemble the Chevy trucks. However, in 2006, the chrome bar was removed and the grill was made smaller, resembling the previous generation.
The fifth-generation cars didn't have the problems of the previous ones and received good reviews by auto experts. They offered a smooth, comfortable ride but also allowed for some spirited driving. This Malibu is a practical family car with good performance.
A sneak peek at the 2008 Malibu
After a 14-year hiatus, the Chevrolet Malibu came back in 1997 as a reasonably priced, relatively plain, mid-sized family car. But that's about to change.
2008 marks the sixth generation of the Malibu, and it promises to be everything that the old model was not: stylish inside and out, with comfortable roomy interior space and smooth handling and performance. The new features bring the Malibu up to par with the class-leading Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.
The latest design is much larger than the previous model, which means that even six-footers will fit comfortably in the back seats with lots of leg room. The interiors of all models are far more upscale with available XM satellite radio and OnStar, which comes with a GPS navigational system. With a much stiffer suspension, the new Malibu provides a smooth, sophisticated ride - and also a quiet one as it's covered with sound-muffling materials.
You can choose from the 2.4-liter Ecotec engine or the 3.6-liter V6 that delivers a zippy 252 horsepower. If you go with the modest 2.4-liter, then you'll be rewarded with better gas mileage, getting 31 mpg on the highway. All models also come with an impressive roster of standard safety features. Look for the new Malibu in fall 2007.
2008 Specifications:
- Body type: 4-Dr sedan
- Models: LS, LT, LTZ
- Engines: 2.4L Ecotec 4 cylinder; twin-overhead cam 3.6L V6
- Power: 164 HP; 252 HP
- Transmission: 4- and 6-speed automatic transmissions
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Mileage: Not yet known (Hwy estimated at 26-31 mpg)
- Base price: estimated at $20,000-$25,000
| Write A Comment |
It used to be we could depend on the reputation and reliability of North American cars to meet our standards - but could it be the times are changing? Here in the U.S., overseas models are continuing to rise in popularity. Find out why!
PIMP IT
If you love your car, you’ve got treat it right – stock will never do for your hot wheels! Whether it’s for performance or just for the look, aftermarket parts can turn that car you just brought home into your own pimp ride.
