2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid Sedan Shown
Review by Edmunds.com
Since its debut back when the Beatles sang about holding hands, the Chevrolet Malibu has gone through several iterations. The initial lineup consisted of rear-drive midsizers that included coupes, sedans, wagons and the legendary, high-horsepower SS-badged muscle car. After a downsizing in the late 1970s and a quiet death in the early '80s, the Malibu was reincarnated as a smaller, anonymous, front-wheel-drive favorite of rental fleets.
A fresh redesign, however, has brought the Chevy Malibu back into good graces and it's well deserving of some "Love Me Do." It now boasts a level of refinement and overall competence that puts it head and shoulders above its past generations and on par with other top midsize family sedans. Traits such as a comfortable and quiet ride, a roomy cabin, satisfying performance, handsome styling and value pricing make Chevrolet's latest Malibu a strong choice.
Current Chevrolet Malibu
After receiving an extreme makeover for 2008, the current Chevrolet Malibu looks more like a luxury sedan than a fleet car. And along with the upscale styling is a much-improved cabin in terms of materials and build quality. Two-tone interior schemes, even on base models, further the effect. The Malibu is based on the long-wheelbase version of GM's front-drive Epsilon platform and offers competitive power with a choice of a 169-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.6-liter 252-hp V6. The inline-4 comes paired to a four-speed automatic, while the V6 boasts a six-speed automatic. The six-speed debuted later for the smaller engine.
Four trims are offered: base LS, midlevel 1LT and 2LT and luxury LTZ. Even the LS comes with full power features, air-conditioning, satellite radio, side curtain airbags, traction control and OnStar. The LT versions upgrade with stability control, alloy wheels and (on the 2LT) heated seats and more power features. Highlights of the LTZ include foglamps, 18-inch alloys, leather seating and an upgraded audio system.
Our staff has been impressed with the newest Malibu. Priced considerably less than a comparably equipped Accord or Camry, the Malibu's combination of handsome looks, a spacious and well-finished cabin, competent performance and a quiet ride finally gives Chevy a serious player in this tough segment.
For more information please contact Foothill Ranch Chevrolet (888) 245-5664
Foothill Ranch Chevrolet
(888) 245-5664
70 Auto Centre Drive
Foothill Ranch, CA 92610
Located in Foothill Ranch California, Foothill Ranch Chevrolet is conveniently located in the foothills of Orange County overlooking the Irvine Valley. We have served Orange County, San Diego and Los Angeles for over 5 years.
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