2002 Chevrolet Malibu: Road Test
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2002 Chevrolet Malibu ▼
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- MSRP: $17,760 -$19,965
- Invoice: $16,250 -$18,268
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Our road test for the 2002 Chevrolet Malibu includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Chevrolet Malibu from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Chevrolet Malibu, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Chevrolet Malibu help you decide if a 2002 Chevrolet Malibu is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base/LS | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5 |
Strong off the line and around town, but not at highway speeds. Also not as smooth as Japanese rivals. Transmission doesn't always downshift quickly for passing.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base/LS | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.3 |
Test Malibu averaged 19 mpg in a mix of city and highway driving. GM recommends regular-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base/LS | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.2 |
Rough pavement easily absorbed, though suspension and tires thump loudly over ruts, potholes.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base/LS | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.8 |
Feels maneuverable, secure in normal driving. Aggressive cornering brings on tire scrubbing and body lean, makes steering feel slow and vague. Stopping power adequate, pedal modulation good.
QUIETNESS
| Base/LS | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.4 |
Wind and road noise are high enough to keep these cars from qualifying as serene long-distance cruisers.
CONTROLS
| Base/LS | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.3 |
Instruments unobstructed, stalks for wipers and headlamps convenient, audio and climate controls large and accessible. Tasteful blend of fabrics, plastics, and padded surfaces gives an upscale feel.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base/LS | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.7 |
Generous head room and leg room. Firm, nicely contoured seats. Thin pillars, large outside mirrors provide good visibility, but high rear parcel shelf impedes vision astern.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base/LS | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.3 |
Good leg room with front seats less than halfway back, though cushion is flat and uncomfortable. Head room is sufficient for those under 6-ft tall.
CARGO ROOM
| Base/LS | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 4.6 |
Large trunk has a flat floor, huge opening, near-bumper-level sill. Interior storage space is generous.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base/LS | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 6 |
It's no cut-rate Camry, but Malibu delivers a fine blend of utility, driving ease, and features at an attractive price.
Total Score
| Base/LS | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 58 | 54.6 |
Total Score: 58
Scores for all Midsize Cars
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