Acceleration

LS	LTZ 4-cylinder	LTZ V6	Hybrid	Class Average
4	4	7	4	5.6

Four-cylinder models (regular and Hybrid) don't jump from a stop but build speed reasonably quickly. V6 versions are strong off the line and spirited at any speed. Heavy throttle use with the V6 brings about noticeable torque steer and lots of wheelspin, even on dry road surfaces. In both, the transmission upshifts smoothly and downshifts quickly for passing; LTZ versions include manual-shift steering-wheel paddles.

Fuel Economy

LS	LTZ 4-cylinder	LTZ V6	Hybrid	Class Average
6	6	6	9	5.6

In Consumer Guide testing, 4-cylinder Malibus with the 4-speed automatic transmission averaged 23.2 mpg in city/highway driving and 24.5 with more highway use. A V6 model averaged 21.4 mpg. Test Hybrid averaged 31.3 mpg. All Malibus use regular-grade gas.

Ride Quality

LS	LTZ 4-cylinder	LTZ V6	Hybrid	Class Average
7	6	5	7	6

Chevrolet claims suspension tuning is about the same for all models, so differences in ride quality are likely the result of tire choice. LS and Hybrid use 16-inchers that allow bumps to be taken in stride. LT and LTZ 4-cylinder come with 17s that make bumps more noticeable, and the LTZ V6 comes with 18s that are somewhat stiff over smaller bumps.

Steering/Handling/Braking

LS	LTZ 4-cylinder	LTZ V6	Hybrid	Class Average
6	6	7	6	6

Body roll is well controlled in all models. Four-cylinder versions use electrically assisted steering that's light at low speeds for easier maneuverability, whereas the LTZ's weightier hydraulic power steering and wider tires provide a sportier driving feel and better grip in fast turns.

Quietness

LS	LTZ 4-cylinder	LTZ V6	Hybrid	Class Average
7	7	7	7	6

Very pleasant overall, though mild road noise and modest wind rush from the side windows intrude at highway speeds. The 4-cylinder engine emits a refined growl under heavy throttle. The V6 produces a sporty but subdued full-throttle whine.

Controls

LS	LTZ 4-cylinder	LTZ V6	Hybrid	Class Average
8	8	8	8	6.3

The gauges are easy to read. Audio and climate controls are mounted high on the dashboard within easy reach and feature handy rotary knobs along with easy-to-use pushbuttons.

Details

LS	LTZ 4-cylinder	LTZ V6	Hybrid	Class Average
7	7	7	7	5.5

Chrome trim outlines the gauges, center vents, and console shifter, while wood trim and several striking two-tone color combinations are available. Padded surfaces are found throughout, though the padding is surprisingly thin--or nonexistent--in areas such as the door tops and armrests where elbows may rest. We noticed no squeaks or rattles in models we tested, but a few uneven interior and exterior panel gaps marred otherwise solid assembly quality.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

LS	LTZ 4-cylinder	LTZ V6	Hybrid	Class Average
7	7	7	7	6.7

Seats are comfortable and the driver's includes standard height and lumbar adjustment. Aiding positioning is a standard tilt and telescopic steering wheel, though it may not rise high enough for some. Headroom and legroom are ample, and adjustable pedals--a boon for shorter drivers--are available. Visibility is obscured to the rear corners by thick roof pillars but is OK elsewhere.

Room/Comfort (rear)

LS	LTZ 4-cylinder	LTZ V6	Hybrid	Class Average
6	6	6	6	5.1

Quite roomy and fairly comfortable, though the seat cushion is low and a bit soft. Headroom is only adequate for six-footers. Legroom and foot space are good even with the front seats all the way back and down, though that tightens foot space through the doors upon egress. It's possible to seat three abreast, but the center-seater's feet will likely have to straddle a hump in the floor board.

Cargo Room

LS	LTZ 4-cylinder	LTZ V6	Hybrid	Class Average
4	4	4	4	4

Malibu shines here vs. top competitors. The trunklid opens to a large portal and is supported by strut-type hinges that don't dip into the cargo area. Also, the pass-through revealed by the standard split folding rear seat is much larger than in many rivals, and though the seatbacks don't fold flat, they have mar-resistant hard-rubber backs. Interior storage includes a dashtop bin, small left- and right-side dash bins, two cupholders and two small bins in the console, a two-tiered console box, and a good-sized glovebox, all covered.

Value within Class

LS	LTZ 4-cylinder	LTZ V6	Hybrid	Class Average
9	10	8	9	6.2

Chevy takes Malibu from the realm of rental fleet darling to a must-see in this highly competitive segment. This midsize sedan is a Best Buy for its refined powertrains, smart interior design, and value pricing. We especially like the smooth, quiet 4-cylinder engine. Considering a Honda Accord or Toyota Camry? Be sure to add Malibu to your shopping list.

Total Score

LS	LTZ 4-cylinder	LTZ V6	Hybrid	Class Average
71	71	72	74	63

Scores for all Midsize Cars

Low Score		48
Average Score		63
High Score		74