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2005 Chevrolet Malibu
Date Published: 3/13/08

2005 Chevrolet Malibu
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MSRP:
$19,200 - 24,610

Invoice:
$17,568 - 22,518

Class:
Midsize Car

CG Award: (What's This?)
2005 Chevrolet Malibu
Expert Rating Summary
Category Base Rating (See All
Ratings)
Midsize Car Average Rating
Acceleration 4 5.3
Fuel Economy 6 5.2
Ride Quality 6 6.1
Steering/Handling/Braking 6 6.1
Quietness 6 6
Controls 7 6.6
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front) 7 6.3
Room/Comfort (rear) 5 4.7
Cargo Room 4 4.5
Value within Class 6 5.7
Total Score: 57 56.5
Ratings: Maximum 10 points per category
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2005 Chevrolet Malibu Review
This midsize Chevrolet comes as a 4-dr sedan and as a 4-dr hatchback called Malibu Maxx. Malibu Maxx has a 6-inch-longer wheelbase than the sedan, but is not as long overall. Both share some underskin structure with the Pontiac G6 and the premium-compact 9-3 models from GM's Saab brand. Malibu sedans and hatchbacks feature LS and LT models with a 200-hp V6. The sedan adds an entry-level base model with a 145-hp 4-cyl engine. A 4-speed automatic is the only transmission. ABS bundled with traction control is optional for the base sedan, standard on other Malibus. Maxx and LT sedan models have 4-wheel disc brakes. Head-protecting curtain side airbags are standard for LTs, optional on other models; for 2005, they include front side torso airbags. All models come with a power height adjustment for the driver seat, tilt/telescope steering column, and power windows/locks/mirrors. Among options are power-adjustable brake and accelerator pedals, OnStar assistance, satellite radio, and heated cloth front seats. Also available is a remote starter that turns on the engine via the keyfob up to 200 ft away. Both body styles have a fold-flat front-passenger seat and split folding rear seatbacks. The Maxx's rear seat also reclines and slides fore and aft to favor cargo space or rear leg room. Also standard for Maxx are a glass skylight over the rear seat, a rigid cargo cover/tailgate table, and for '05, a rear wiper on LT versions. Rear DVD entertainment is an exclusive Maxx option.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Midsize Cars represent the heart of the U.S. car market. Most are price-sensitive, conservatively designed, family oriented sedans and wagons.

Our Best Buys include the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Our Recommended picks include the Chevrolet Malibu, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Mazda 6, Nissan Altima, and Subaru Outback and Legacy.
News
Malibu and Malibu Maxx will each add an SS version for 2006. Chevrolet confirms the package will include a new 240-hp 3.9-liter V6, plus sport-tuned suspension with 18-inch wheels and sporty styling add-ons. Regular models may get a few changes too, but sources see nothing major coming for the next couple of years. A rumored hybrid-power option remains just that--a rumor--at least for the near-term. GM execs feel they can help more people save more gas by "hybridizing" their full-size pickups and SUVs, and will keep focusing their efforts accordingly.
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