What it is: The Chevrolet Malibu mid-size sedan was redesigned last year with a smoother look and a 3.6-inch longer wheelbase that created more rear-seat room. Power comes from a turbocharged 1.5- or 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. A hybrid model is also available. The Malibu competes with mid-size family sedans such as the Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry.
(Skip to details on the Malibu Hybrid) New for 2017 A new nine-speed automatic transmission is standard on the Premier model, replacing an eight-speed automatic. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, which let you mirror select smartphone apps on the car’s dashboard screen, is now standard on the LS and LT trim levels. The LS and LT also gain the Teen Driver safety monitoring system. A newly available Sport Package includes 18-inch aluminum wheels with all-season tires, a leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel and a leather-wrapped shift knob. Significant Standard Features
Tilt and telescoping steering wheel with audio and phone controls
Keyless access with push-button start
60/40-split, folding rear seat
Required in every new car: front airbags, antilock brakes and an electronic stability system
Significant Available Features
250-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder
Nine-speed automatic transmission
Heated steering wheel
MyLink touchscreen multimedia system
Navigation system
OnStar 4G LTE connectivity and Wi-Fi hot spot (subscription required)
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone connectivity
Wireless charging for compatible smartphones
Backup camera
Teen Driver safety monitor
Adaptive cruise control
Lane keeping assist
Forward collision warning
Malibu Hybrid With its 2016 redesign, the Malibu gained its first true gas-electric hybrid model. Previous generations of the Malibu offered only a mild-hybrid system that provided modest fuel economy benefits. For 2017, the Malibu Hybrid gets an EPA-estimated 49/43/46 mpg city/highway/combined.
The Malibu Hybrid comes with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with direct injection, a two-motor hybrid system, a continuously variable automatic transmission and a lithium-ion battery pack. The system can operate in electric-only mode up to 55 mph, according to Chevrolet. The battery location in the trunk reduces cargo volume to 11.6 cubic feet from 15.8.
For 2017, the base multimedia system adds Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone connectivity and GM’s Teen Driver safety monitoring system. What’s Special
Exhaust gas heat recovery for consistent fuel economy
LED daytime running lights
OnStar 4G LTE connectivity and Wi-Fi hot spot (subscription required)
