Vehicle 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:
