2006 Chevrolet Malibu: Road Test
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2006 Chevrolet Malibu ▼
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- MSRP: $16,365 -$23,465
- Invoice: $15,465 -$22,174
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Our road test for the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu help you decide if a 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| LS sdn | 2LT sdn | LT Maxx | SS Maxx | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 6 | 6 | 7 | 5.6 |
The 4-cyl is adequate around town, feels weak in highway passing. The 3.5 V6 is more robust in all situations. Strong 3.9 V6 has more than ample power, but makes SS versions prone to torque steer--pulling to the side in full-throttle takeoffs. Transmission smooth, works well with either V6, but must shift frequently to keep 4-cyl in its power band.
FUEL ECONOMY
| LS sdn | 2LT sdn | LT Maxx | SS Maxx | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 5.2 |
No opportunity yet to measure with 4-cyl. Test 3.5 V6 sedans averaged 20.9-23.7 mpg depending on driving conditions. Test 3.5 Maxx test cars averaged 21.2-25.2 mpg in mixed city/highway driving. Test Maxx SS averaged 19.0-21.4 in mixed city/highway driving, 16.9 mpg in mostly city use. Chevy recommends regular-grade fuel for all engines.
RIDE QUALITY
| LS sdn | 2LT sdn | LT Maxx | SS Maxx | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 7 | 6 | 6.1 |
Well-isolated from bumps, yet exhibited more wallow, float than Honda Accord or Toyota Camry. Rear tires sometimes thump over expansion joints. SS Maxx gives up little in comfort, despite sport suspension.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| LS sdn | 2LT sdn | LT Maxx | SS Maxx | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 7 | 6.1 |
Rigid body and taut suspension help Malibu corner with agility and confidence. SS models best overall on their 18-inch tires, but 16s and 17s furnish impressive grip. Electric power steering delivers good road feel; SS steering has conventional hydraulic assist. Brakes adequate, but ABS should be standard on all models.
QUIETNESS
| LS sdn | 2LT sdn | LT Maxx | SS Maxx | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.2 |
The 4-cyl and 3.5 V6 drone loudly at full throttle and lack the overall refinement of Japanese-brand rivals, but are quiet enough at cruise. SS 3.9 V6 better hushed, sounds more refined when under acceleration. Wind and road noise are well-muted.
CONTROLS
| LS sdn | 2LT sdn | LT Maxx | SS Maxx | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.8 |
Well-designed interior has large, legible gauges and conveniently located, clearly marked audio and climate controls. Available remote-start feature works as advertised, is integrated with standard antitheft system. Interior materials are visibly below Honda/Toyota level, but are serviceable and show good workmanship.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| LS sdn | 2LT sdn | LT Maxx | SS Maxx | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.6 |
Standard power-height seat adjuster, tilt/telescope steering wheel allow comfortable driving posture; optional power-adjustable pedals tailor it further. Good head and leg room for larger adults. Outward vision good, enhanced by large door mirrors, though Maxx rear pillars partially obscure view to back corners.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| LS sdn | 2LT sdn | LT Maxx | SS Maxx | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 5 |
Sedans offer adequate leg room, but low seat cushion forces awkward knees-up stance, and taller adults may lack head room. Maxx has leg room rivaling that of full-size sedans, plus useful reclining seatbacks and easy entry/exit through broad doors. It's also among the few cars in this class to offer a rear DVD system. Seats comfortable, if a bit soft.
CARGO ROOM
| LS sdn | 2LT sdn | LT Maxx | SS Maxx | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 7 | 7 | 4.5 |
Sedan trunk has adequate volume for class, low liftover. Maxx's rear seats slide ahead for generous space. All models have folding rear seatbacks. Available fold-flat front-passenger seat a boon for longer items. Interior storage unexceptional, though.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| LS sdn | 2LT sdn | LT Maxx | SS Maxx | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6.1 |
This Recommended pick targets Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. The Malibu sedan is a bit smaller than those rivals, but the versatile Maxx has more rear-seat and cargo room than either. Malibu's 4-cyl engine disappoints, but V6 models have good pep, competent road manners, and an impressive list of standard features.
Total Score
| LS sdn | 2LT sdn | LT Maxx | SS Maxx | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 57 | 61 | 68 | 67 | 58.2 |
Total Score: 63
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