By Cars.com Staff
Cars.com National June 30, 2010Vehicle Overview
Available in LS, LT and top-of-the-line LTZ trims, the five-seat Malibu is Chevrolet's entry in the important midsize sedan segment. Its competitors include the Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry. Chevrolet had offered a "mild hybrid" version of the Malibu, but that model was discontinued after the 2009 model year.
New for 2011
All models have a standard six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift controls. The standard OnStar system adds six months of the Directions and Connections Plan with turn-by-turn navigation instructions.
Exterior
The Malibu features a prominent two-bar grille and squared-off rear. A glass sunroof is optional. Exterior features include:
- Standard 17-inch wheels on LS and LT
- Standard 18-inch wheels on LTZ
- New 18-inch chrome aluminum wheels in 2LT V-6 package
- V-6 model has dual chrome exhaust outlets
Interior
A variety of two-tone interior themes are available to accent the dashboard, center stack, door trim and seats. The instruments have blue backlighting, and a 110-volt power outlet is available. There's also an optional upgrade to a premium eight-speaker system. Interior features include:
- Laminated glass to reduce cabin noise
- Metallic accents
- Standard XM Satellite Radio (subscription sold separately)
- Bluetooth phone capability
- 60/40-split folding rear seat in all models
Under the Hood
Engine options include a four-cylinder or V-6, both of which use variable valve timing to optimize performance and fuel efficiency. The Malibu's base four-cylinder is flex-fuel capable and now teams with a six-speed automatic in all models. Buyers get a significant horsepower gain by stepping up to the optional V-6, which also drives a six-speed automatic. Mechanical features include:
- 169-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 158 pounds-feet of torque when running on gas
- 252-hp, 3.6-liter V-6 with 251 pounds-feet of torque
- Standard six-speed automatic with manual shift control
- Variable electric power-assist steering standard
Safety
Stability control with brake assist is standard on all Malibu models. OnStar 9.0, which is now standard, features advanced automatic crash notification, remote diagnostics, a monthly status report and Turn-by-Turn Navigation. Chevy says OnStar 9.0 has improved voice recognition for 2011. Safety features include:
- Standard side curtain and side-impact airbags
- Four-wheel-disc antilock brakes
Additional Reviews
Cars.com Expert Reviews
| Kelsey Mays | Cars.com National | September 22, 2011 |
| Cars.com Staff | Cars.com National | June 30, 2010 |
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