2006 Chevrolet Malibu Full Review - Consumer Guide Automotive

New models and revised styling are 2006 highlights for this underskin sibling of the Pontiac G6 and the 9-3 from General Motors-owned Saab. Malibu comes as a sedan and as a 4-dr hatchback. Called the Maxx, the hatchback has a 6-inch-longer wheelbase than the sedan. Both body styles offer LT models that are joined for '06 by uplevel LTZ and sporty SS versions. Sedans also come in price-leader LS form. LS and most LT sedans come with a 144-hp 4-cyl engine. 2LT sedans, LT Maxx, and LTZ models have a 201-hp V6. SS versions have a 240-hp V6. All use a 4-speed automatic transmission, with manual shift gate on SS models. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and traction control are standard on 2LT sedan, Maxx, and SS models and optional on other Malibus. SS models have 18-inch wheels, sport suspension and seats, and unique trim. Front side airbags and curtain side airbags are standard on LTZ and SS, optional on other Malibus. Maxxes have a rear seat that reclines and slides fore/aft, a rear skylight, and a rigid cargo cover that doubles as a table. Optional DVD entertainment is a Maxx exclusive. LTZs have leather upholstery, SSs have a cloth-leather combination. Power-adjustable pedals and OnStar assistance are available.

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 Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Our Recommended picks include Chevrolet Malibu, Hyundai Sonata, Mazda 6, Nissan Altima, and Subaru Outback and Legacy.

New or significantly redesigned models include Chevrolet Impala, Chevrolet Monte Carlo, Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, and Volkswagen Passat.

News

Word is that the 2008 Malibus will be redesigned on a new GM "Epsilon II" architecture, though some underskin components may carry over from current models. Styling is rumored to be bolder and more upscale inside and out. No word yet on whether the Maxx hatchback will continue. A Toyota Prius-style gasoline/electric hybrid powertrain is said to be certain, though it probably won't be available at introduction time. Keep checking back with us for further updates.

2006 Chevrolet Malibu Road Test

Pros	Cons

Instruments/controls	Engine noise (4 cyl)

Ride

Rear-seat room (Maxx)

Rear-seat entry/exit (Maxx)

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

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

Scores for all Midsize Cars

Low Score		44
Average Score		58
High Score		70

2006 Chevrolet Malibu Prices & Equipment

Model Prices

Prices Updated: 05/26/2006

Trim Name	Retail Price	Dealer Invoice	Destination Charge

LS 4-door sedan	$16,365	$15,465	$625

0LT 4-door sedan	$17,865	$16,882	$625

1LT 4-door sedan	$18,365	$17,355	$625

2LT 4-door sedan	$19,865	$18,772	$625

LT Maxx 4-door hatchback	$20,165	$19,056	$625

LTZ 4-door sedan	$23,065	$21,796	$625

LTZ Maxx 4-door sedan	$23,465	$22,174	$625

SS 4-door sedan	$22,865	$21,607	$625

SS Maxx 4-door sedan	$23,265	$21,985	$625

Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.

NA = price note available, NC = no charge.

Rebates and Incentives

There are no rebates or incentives at this time.

Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.

Standard Equipment

Powertrain

2.2-liter 4-cylinder engine, 4-speed automatic transmission.

Safety

Dual front airbags, daytime running lights.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Air conditioning, power steering, tilt/telescope steering wheel, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, power height-adjustable driver seat, fold-flat passenger seat, center console, cupholders, split folding rear seat, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, outside-temperature indicator, variable-intermittent wipers, visor mirrors, rear defogger, automatic headlights.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Theft-deterrent system, 205/65R15 tires, wheel covers.

0LT adds to LS:

Comfort and Convenience Features

Leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, driver-seat lumbar adjustment, upgraded sound system, illuminated driver-side visor mirror, map lights.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

215/60R16 tires.

1LT adds to 0LT:

Comfort and Convenience Features

Remote starting, floormats.

2LT/LT Maxx adds to 1LT:

Powertrain

3.5-liter V6 engine, traction control.

Safety

Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Adjustable rear seat (Maxx), glass roof panel (Maxx), cargo cover (Maxx).

LTZ/LTZ Maxx adds to 2LT/LT Maxx:

Safety

Front side airbags, curtain side airbags.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Automatic climate control, OnStar assistance system w/one year service, leather upholstery, heated front seats, 6-way power driver seat, power-adjustable pedals, heated power mirrors, rear radio controls (Maxx), automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, universal garage door opener, illuminated passenger-side visor mirror, rear wiper (Maxx).

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Fog lights, rear spoiler, 225/50R17 tires, chrome alloy wheels.

SS/SS Maxx adds to 2LT/LT Maxx:

Powertrain

3.9-liter V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability.

Safety

Front side airbags, curtain side airbags.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Automatic climate control, leather/cloth upholstery, 6-way power driver seat, power-adjustable pedals, rear radio controls (Maxx).

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Deletes: heated front seats, fold-flat passenger seat.

Fog lights, rear spoiler, sport suspension, 225/50R18 tires, alloy wheels.

Optional Equipment

Major Packages	Retail Price	Invoice Price
Luxury and Convenience Pkg.
1LT, 2LT	$995	$826
Heated front seats, 6-way power driver seat, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, illuminated visor mirrors, rear map lights, fog lights, chrome wheel covers.

Front Seat Pkg.
1LT, 2LT, LT Maxx	$450	$374
Heated front seats, 6-way power driver seat.

Safety
Curtain side airbags
LS, 0LT, 1LT, 2LT, LT Maxx	$690	$577
Includes front side airbags.

Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes
LS, 0LT, 1LT	$465	$386
Includes traction control.

Comfort and Convenience Features
OnStar assistance system
0LT, 1LT, 2LT/LT Maxx, LS, SS/SS Maxx	$695	$577
Includes one year service. LS, LT, LT Maxx require curtain side airbags. LS requires upgraded sound system. Std. LTZ, LTZ Maxx.

Power sunroof
1LT, 2LT/LT Maxx, LTZ/LTZ Maxx, SS/SS Maxx	$800	$664
Requires curtain side airbags. NA LS, 0LT.

Power-adjustable pedals
1LT, 2LT, LT Maxx	$125	$104


Upgraded sound system
LS	$125	$104
Requires OnStar assistance system.

AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer
1LT, 2LT/LT Maxx, LTZ/LTZ Maxx, SS/SS Maxx	$300	$249
NA LS, 0LT.

Rear radio controls
LT Maxx	$175	$145


Satellite radio
1LT, 2LT/LT Maxx, LTZ/LTZ Maxx, SS/SS Maxx	$325	$270
Requires monthly service fee after 3rd month. NA LS, 0LT.

DVD entertainment system
Maxx	$995	$826
LT Maxx includes rear radio controls.

Appearance and Miscellaneous
Rear spoiler
1LT, 2LT	$175	$145
LT Maxx	$300	$249
LT Maxx includes rear wiper.

Engine-block heater
0LT, 1LT, 2LT/LT Maxx, LS, LTZ/LTZ Maxx, SS/SS Maxx	$50	$42


225/50R18 summer performance tires
SS	$150	$125

2006 Chevrolet Malibu Specs & Safety

Vehicle Dimensions

Specification	Chevrolet Malibu 4-door sedan	Chevrolet Malibu Maxx 4-door hatchback

Wheelbase, in.	106.3	112.3

Overall Length, in.	188.3	187.8

Overall Width, in.	69.9	69.8

Overall Height, in.	57.5	58.1

Curb Weight, lbs.	3174	3458

Cargo Volume, cu. ft.	15.4	41.0

Standard Payload, lbs.	--	--

Fuel Capacity, gals.	16.3	16.3

Seating Capacity	5	5

Front Head Room, in.	39.6	39.4

Max. Front Leg Room, in.	41.9	41.9

Rear Head Room, in.	37.6	39.4

Max. Rear Leg Room, in.	38.5	41.0

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Engines

	dohc I4	ohv V6	ohv V6

Size, liters/cu. in.	2.2 /134	3.5 /213	3.9 /238

Horsepower @ rpm.	144 @ 5600	201 @ 5400	240 @ 5800

Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm.	155 @ 4000	221 @ 3200	240 @ 2800

Availability	Standard	Standard	Standard

EPA City / highway mpg

4-speed automatic	24/32	22/32	19/26

Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft; dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders; V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Safety Features

Antilock Brakes

Traction Control

Antiskid System

Front Side Airbags

Curtain Side Airbags

Rear Side Airbags

NHTSA Crash-Test Results

Test	Chevrolet Malibu 4-door sedan	Chevrolet Malibu Maxx 4-door hatchback

Front Impact, Driver	5	5

Front Impact, Passenger	5	5

Rollover Resistance	4	4

Side Impact, Driver	4	NA

Side Impact, Rear Passenger	5	NA

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.

Manufacturer's Warranty

Class	Years/Miles	Comments

Powertrain	5/60,000	Aveo, Cobalt and Uplander only.

Bumper-to-bumper	3/36,000	--

Corrosion	6/100,000	--

Free roadside assistance	3/36,000	--

Free scheduled maintenance	None/--	--

Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive. There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for 2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.

Built in: USA

Drivewheels: front-wheel drive

Tester's Comments

(what's this?)

Vehicle Evaluated: 2006 Chevrolet Malibu
Trim Level: SS/SS Maxx
Arrival Date: 11/03/2005
Engine: ohv V6
Bodystyle: 4-door hatchback
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
4WD/AWD: No
Base Price: $24,065
Price as Tested: $25,015
Mileage at Beginning of Test: 1414
Mileage at End of Test: 1673
Total Measured Miles:
Total Fuel Used: 15.323 gals.

Major Options: XM Satellite Radio (service fee extra, first 3 months included)

Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy: 16.9 mpg (what's this?)

Problems During Test: None

From The Back Seat
Kirk Bell This is pretty nice vehicle. It's excellent throttle response, loads of utility, and decent interior materials are offset a bit by a ragged exhaust note and a bit of a harsh ride, but the $25K asking price is reasonable. Why doesn't GM bring out the good engine with the new car at launch?

Rick Cotta At $25,000, our SS test vehicle offered fine performance, great passenger space, and useful cargo volume--though I missed the fold-forward front passenger seat that's standard on other Malibus but missing here. The SS is an interesting package, but since the 3.5 found in other Maxx models is no slouch, I'd probably go with an LT or LTZ version.

< 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Photos

Also in the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Review:

Chevrolet Malibu

Chevrolet Malibu Road Test

Chevrolet Malibu Prices & Equipment

Chevrolet Malibu Specs & Safety

Chevrolet Malibu Photos

Chevrolet Malibu Full Review

All Chevrolet Malibus

All Chevrolets

Car Buying Resources