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Mid-Year New Car & Truck Buyers Guide: Chevy Malibu still good, but with a better one coming
Wednesday, June 20, 2007

Chevy's got a gang of cars and trucks, so picking out the highlights is a tall order.

But one of those standouts simply has to be the Chevy Malibu. While the spacious, popular Impala, cute HHR and hot Corvette get the lion's share of the notice in the passenger car line, Malibu soldiers on.


The Chevrolet Malibu.
Click image for larger version.

Capable, dependable and completely predictable in handling and performance, the Malibu represents the Chevy brand in the intermediate field, competing against brands like Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.

The Malibu, priced between $17,710 and $24,470, is powered by three different engines depending on the model you choose. They include a 144 horsepower, 2.2 liter four; a 3.5 liter, 217 horsepower V-6; and a 240 3.9 liter horsepower V-6. Mileage figures are 24/34 on the 2.2 liter engine and 19/26 on the 3.9 liter one.

You'll find plenty of people carrying room inside the Malibu along with a nice sized trunk, and standard equipment that includes side curtain air bags.

If you really want to be different, get the Malibu Maxx -- but you better get it this year before it goes out of production for 2008. The Maxx is a true hatchback with features like lots of rear legroom, 60/40 split rear seats that slide back and forth, and a fold flat front seat for even more carrying room.

What's Coming in 2008

It's the Malibu again that makes the news next fall. And believe me, you won't recognize it. The rather plain looking American four-door sedan is being replaced with svelte, Audi-like expensive styling and a beautiful, high content, two-tone interior. Bigger and better engines are being offered, along with even a new six-speed automatic transmission. With the new Malibu coming, expect to get some pretty good deals on the existing model this summer.

First published on June 15, 2007 at 1:23 pm