Chevrolet Malibu

A stylish redesign for 2016 made the Malibu one of the better-looking entries in the mid-size sedan category, as well as giving it an improved interior with more rear-seat room, refined powertrains and improved fuel economy. A new turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder was the base engine, while a turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder was optional. A hybrid powertrain was also available, netting an EPA-estimated 46 mpg combined. Subsequent model years saw no major updates, only omissions: The hybrid powertrain was dropped for the 2020 model year, and the turbo 2.0-liter was discontinued after 2022. The Malibu itself is slated to be discontinued after the 2025 model year as SUVs and electric vehicles continue to take center stage at Chevrolet.

The 2013 redesign will not be remembered as a benchmark in Malibu history; our 2013 review noted little more than a large trunk and quiet interior as its high points. Better news was the addition of the excellent Chevrolet MyLink multimedia system. Base power came from a new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, while a turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder was optional. An Eco version delivered an EPA-estimated 29 mpg combined thanks to a mild-hybrid powertrain. Unfortunately, interior quality was not up to par, and the backseat was cramped. 

Much improved all around, the 2008 Malibu had a longer wheelbase and more interior room, plus more style inside and out. Improved interior materials with available two-tone themes were a big improvement, and the ride was quiet and comfortable. This was also the last generation of the Malibu to offer a V-6 engine. Standard power came from a 2.4-liter four-cylinder, and a mild-hybrid version was also available. 

Based on a platform shared with GM’s former Opel brand, this generation was the only Malibu to be offered as a Euro-style hatchback in addition to a sedan. With a large rear opening and sliding rear seats, the Malibu Maxx hatch added practicality but was not a big hit with buyers. Four- and six-cylinder engines were available, and Chevrolet brought back the SS nameplate for 2006, featuring suspension and trim upgrades and added performance from a 240-horsepower, 3.9-liter V-6.

Returning after a 14-year absence, the Malibu nameplate came back in 1997 as a front-wheel-drive replacement for the Chevrolet Corsica. Long on value (if not excitement), power came from a standard 150-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder or an optional 155-hp, 3.1-liter V-6. Standard safety features included antilock brakes. This generation remained in production until 2005 as the Malibu Classic, which was sold to fleets.