Civilized, Contemporary, and Practical

The 2009 Chevy Malibu

The 2009 Chevrolet Malibu sedan is all about civilized road manners, quality construction and practicality, with clean, contemporary styling.  This is the smaller of Chevy's two midsize sedans. The Malibu got a redesign for 2008, so for 2009 it only gets minor changes. New for 2009 the Malibu includes standard Bluetooth on the LTZ, optional on the LT. The four-cylinder models will likely represent 70 percent of sales. The mid-level LT trim levels are expected to be the most popular, say GM executives, though the entry level LS-2 is also expected to be popular. Unlike many rivals, however, Chevy does build its most well-appointed LTZ trim level with its most fuel-efficient powertrain -- a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and a six-speed transmission. Many of the Malibu's rivals couple their highest trims only with their thirstiest engines. Competitors to this midsize sedan include the Honda Accord, Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry.  The 2009 Malibu has a starting MSRP of $21,605 - $26,880 and an EPA fuel economy of 17 - 22 mpg in the city and 26 - 33 mpg on the highway.  Overall, the Chevrolet Malibu is a competent rival to imported sedans traditionally known for bringing a little enthusiasm to the family-hauling class.

Driving the Malibu

The steering on the 2009 Malibu is reasonably quick and precise, but without much real road feel, although better than previous models of this same car. Braking action and performance was on par with anything else in the class of vehicles. The base model comes with electric power steering, to save drag on the engine, while the V6-powered models come with hydraulic power steering. Malibu rides on the Epsilon platform, with MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension with front and rear stabilizer bars of varying diameters, depending on model.  Four-cylinder models don't jump from a stop but build speed reasonably quickly. The 4-speed automatic performs well with prompt, smooth shifts. The available 6-speed automatic is similarly smooth, but tends to get caught in the wrong gear for best response. V6 versions are strong off the line and spirited at any speed. In both, the transmission upshifts smoothly and downshifts quickly for passing; LTZ versions include manual-shift steering-wheel paddles.

Power for 2009

All models come with a 169-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder Ecotec engine as standard equipment. The LS and LT include a four-speed automatic transmission. The LTZ includes a six-speed automatic transmission, optional on the LT. Also available is a 3.6-liter V6 engine and six-speed automatic, which is offered for the LT and LTZ.   Buyers get a significant horsepower gain by stepping up to the optional V-6.  Both engines use variable valve timing to optimize performance and fuel efficiency.

Chevy Malibu Design

The Malibu gets a dual-port grille, which is a standard contemporary Chevrolet design cue.   The front gives the Malibu a distinctive look, and distinction is the goal for any midsize sedan designer. At 70.3 inches wide and 57.1 inches tall, the Malibu is the narrowest as well as shortest in height of the Honda Accord, Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry. At 191.8 inches in length, it's longer than the Altima and Camry but 2.3 inches shorter than the Accord.  There are tiny bowtie emblems imbedded in the headlights, one of several small surprise-and-delight features.   A glass sunroof with four movable panes that span the front and rear seats is optional.

Inside the Malibu

The Malibu's cabin layout is simple and straightforward, with controls that are extremely easy to understand.  Big knobs and buttons and an elegant design make operating audio and climate functions easy. The Malibu has the audio controls at the top, which is a nice placement.  The Malibu has excellent passenger room, both in the front and the rear, and it is a very quiet vehicle.  Window switches are conveniently mounted on the doors. Remote starting is available. This lets the driver start the car by pressing a button on the key fob.  For materials, cloth, suede and leather interior options are available. A variety of two-tone interior themes are available as a means of accenting the dash, center stack, door trim and seats.

Malibu Hybrid

The hybrid is considered a mild hybrid and uses a belt-alternator-starter, or BAS system, to stop and start the engine when needed. It shuts down completely at stoplights, and can add 3-4 kilowatts or about seven horsepower to the gasoline engine's output when needed.  The Hybrid comes in an LT-level of trim with special 16-inch low-rolling-resistance tires. The hybrid system can turn off the gas engine while at a stop, but the car cannot accelerate solely on electric power. No plug-in charging is required.

Lineup for '09

 Trim levels for the 2009 Malibu include the LS ($19,995), 1LT ($20,995) 2LT ($22,635), and LTZ ($26,995), plus the Hybrid ($22,790). LT models come with StabiliTrak yaw control, 17-inch wheels and tires, dual exhausts and manual shift control. LTZ adds 18-inch alloy wheels and tires, fog lights and clean-lens LED taillamps, and comes with a long list of standard equipment items.  Options include a power sunroof, remote starting, power adjustable pedals, upgraded interiors, and an upgraded eight-speaker, 210-watt entertainment system.

Summary

Now standard on the Malibu are electronic stability system and standard side curtain and side-impact airbags. The 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is largely unchanged following its 2008 redesign. It shares its basic design with the Pontiac G6, Saturn Aura, and Saab 9-3.  Anyone looking for a reliable and practical sedan should take a look at the Mailbu.  Furthermore, with its hybrid option, it offers a chance for excellent mileage and 'green' driving. With sophisticated good looks, an upscale cabin feel and driving dynamics that match the best in the class, the 2009 Chevy Malibu is competing with perennial class-leaders like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry -- and in many cases, it's beating them out. For more details on pricing and specs, click here.