2004 Chevrolet Malibu: Road Test
Archived Review
2004 Chevrolet Malibu ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $18,770 -$24,100
- Invoice: $17,175 -$22,052
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Chevrolet Malibu
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2004 Chevrolet Malibu includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Chevrolet Malibu from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Chevrolet Malibu, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Chevrolet Malibu help you decide if a 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| Base | LT sdn | LT Maxx | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 6 | 6 | 5.2 |
The 4 cyl is adequate around town but feels weak in highway passing. V6 is more robust. However, neither engine is as powerful or refined as those of top rivals. Automatic transmission smooth, but it must shift frequently to keep 4 cyl in power band.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base | LT sdn | LT Maxx | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 5.3 |
No opportunity to measure with 4 cyl, but should be similar to test V6 sedans, which averaged 20.9-23.7 mpg depending on driving conditions. Test Maxx averaged 21.2 mpg. Chevy recommends regular fuel for both.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base | LT sdn | LT Maxx | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
Well-isolated from bumps with little wallow or float on wavy roads. Rear tires occasionally thump over expansion joints.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base | LT sdn | LT Maxx | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 7 | 6.1 |
Rigid body and taut suspension help Malibu corner with agility and confidence. Maxx and LT sedan have larger wheels that provide impressive grip in tight corners, where base and LS sedan's smaller tires complain loudly. Electric-assist steering delivers good road feel. Brakes adequate, but ABS should be standard on all models.
QUIETNESS
| Base | LT sdn | LT Maxx | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 7 | 5.8 |
Engines nearly silent at cruise, but 4 cyl sounds strained when passing. Wind and road noise moderate at highway speeds.
CONTROLS
| Base | LT sdn | LT Maxx | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 6.4 |
Large, clear gauges. Conveniently located and clearly marked audio and climate controls highlight well-designed interior. Most materials impress, but center armrest lid is flimsy. Optional remote-start feature works as advertised and is integrated with antitheft system.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base | LT sdn | LT Maxx | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 |
Standard power-height seat adjuster and tilt/telescope steering wheel afford excellent driving position, augmented by optional power-adjustable pedals. Head and leg room acceptable for large adults, but not outstanding. Outward visibility good, enhanced by large outside mirrors.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base | LT sdn | LT Maxx | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 7 | 4.5 |
Sedan passengers have adequate leg room, but low seat bottom makes them ride knees up, and taller adults will want more head room. Maxx offers outstanding leg room rivaling full-size sedans, reclining seatbacks, easy entry/exit through large doors. It's also among few cars to offer rear-seat entertainment. Seats comfortable if a bit soft.
CARGO ROOM
| Base | LT sdn | LT Maxx | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 7 | 4.6 |
Sedan's trunk adequate for class with low liftover, and split folding rear seat is standard on all Malibus. Rear seat on Maxx slides forward to expand cargo room. Both body styles have fold-flat front passenger seat to accommodate long items.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base | LT sdn | LT Maxx | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 8 | 6 |
Chevrolet aims the Malibu at Honda Accord and Toyota Camry buyers, and while the sedan is a bit smaller than those rivals, the Maxx offers more rear seat room than either. The 4-cyl engine disappoints, but in V6 form, Malibu's competent road manners, impressive list of available features, and reasonable prices make it worth a serious look.
Total Score
| Base | LT sdn | LT Maxx | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 58 | 63 | 68 | 56.1 |
Total Score: 63
Scores for all Midsize Cars
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
