2008 Chevrolet Malibu Full Review - Consumer Guide Automotive

The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is redesigned with new styling, more available power, and added safety features. This is the smaller of Chevy's two midsize sedans. It shares its basic design with the Saturn Aura. The 2008 Chevy Malibu is 6 inches longer in wheelbase and 3 inches longer overall than the '07 sedan; the Malibu Maxx hatchback, which rode a longer wheelbase, has been dropped. Trim levels include LS, LT, and LTZ. A gas/electric Hybrid model is also available. LS and LT have a standard 169-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that teams with a 4-speed automatic transmission. A 6-speed automatic is standard on LTZ 4-cylinders. Optional on the LT and standard on the LTZ is a 252-hp 3.6-liter V6 that teams with the 6-speed automatic. The Hybrid combines the 4-cylinder gas engine with an electric motor. The sole transmission is a 4-speed automatic. The hybrid system can turn off the gas engine while at a stop, but the car cannot accelerate solely on electric power. No plug-in charging is required. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system (new for '08), curtain side airbags, and front side airbags.

Competition

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 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 Kia Rondo. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Mazda 5, Mercury Milan, Nissan Altima, Saturn Aura, and Toyota Camry.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Malibu, Dodge Avenger, Honda Accord, and Mazda 5.

News

Chevy says it will offer a gas-electric hybrid Malibu a few months after other models reach dealers. Officials hint at a starting price of about $20,000. The powertrain should be identical to that of the Aura Green Line, with a battery-powered electric motor that assists a 4-cyl gasoline engine but does not drive the vehicle independently. Final pricing and more details will be available soon, so keep checking back with us.

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2008 Chevrolet Malibu Road Test

Pros	Cons

Passenger room	Rear visibility

Quietness

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

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 comes with 17s that make bumps more noticeable, and the LTZ 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

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2008 Chevrolet Malibu Prices & Equipment

Model Prices

Prices Updated: 06/27/2008

Trim Name	Retail Price	Dealer Invoice	Destination Charge

LS 4-door sedan	$19,900	$18,806	$650

LT 4-door sedan	$21,185	$20,020	$650

LTZ 4-door sedan	$27,095	$25,605	$650

Hybrid 4-door sedan	$23,895	$22,581	$650

Price note: Prices and equipment for LTZ 4-cylinder not available at time of publication.

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

2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, traction control.

Safety

Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock brakes, tire-pressure monitor, emergency inside trunk release, daytime running lights.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Air conditioning, OnStar assistance system w/one year service, tilt/telescopic steering wheel, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, power height-adjustable driver seat w/lumbar adjustment, center console, split folding rear seat, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, digital-media player connection, satellite radio, tachometer, outside-temperature indicator, variable-intermittent wipers, rear defogger, automatic headlights.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Theft-deterrent system, 215/60R16 tires, wheel covers.

LT adds to LS:

Safety

Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid system.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Steering wheel radio controls, floormats.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

225/50R17 tires.

LTZ adds to LT:

Powertrain

3.6-liter V6 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Automatic climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather upholstery, heated front seats, 8-way power driver seat, 6-way power passenger seat, power-adjustable pedals, heated power mirrors w/driver-side automatic day/night, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, remote engine start, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, universal garage door opener, illuminated visor mirrors.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Fog lights, 225/50R18 tires, alloy wheels.

Hybrid adds to LT:

Powertrain

2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, electric drive motor.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Automatic climate control.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

215/60R16 tires, alloy wheels.

Optional Equipment

Major Packages	Retail Price	Invoice Price
2LT Option Pkg.
LT	$1,855	$1,753
Leather-wrapped steering wheel, faux-suede upholstery, heated front seats, power-adjustable pedals, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, illuminated visor mirrors, alloy wheels.

Engine Pkg.
LT	$2,060	$1,710
3.6-liter V6 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, chrome exhaust tips, bright alloy wheels. Replaces electric power steering w/hydraulic power steering. Requires 2LT Option Pkg.

4-Cylinder Spring Special
LTZ (credit)	$-825	$-685
2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, 215/50R17 tires, chrome alloy wheels. Retains 6-speed automatic transmission. Replaces hydraulic power steering w/electric power steering.

Power Convenience Pkg.
LT	$515	$427
8-way power driver seat, power-adjustable pedals, remote engine start.

Driver Convenience Pkg.
Hybrid	$325	$270
6-way power driver seat, power-adjustable pedals.

Premium Mat Pkg.
LT	$185	$154
Upgraded floormats, cargo mat and net.

Comfort and Convenience Features
Power sunroof
LT, LTZ, Hybrid	$800	$664


AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer
LT	$550	$457
Includes upgraded sound system. Requires 2LT Option Pkg. Std. LTZ.

Power rear sunshade
LT, LTZ	$250	$208
Includes manual side shades.

110-volt power outlet
LT	$150	$125


Floormats
LS	$80	$66


Appearance and Miscellaneous
Bodyside moldings
LS, LT	$150	$125


Engine-block heater
Hybrid, LS, LT, LTZ	$75	$62


Special paint
Hybrid, LS, LT, LTZ	$95	$79


Premium paint
LT, LTZ	$295	$245

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2008 Chevrolet Malibu Specs & Safety

Vehicle Dimensions

Specification	Chevrolet Malibu 4-door sedan

Wheelbase, in.	112.3

Overall Length, in.	191.8

Overall Width, in.	70.3

Overall Height, in.	57.1

Curb Weight, lbs.	3415

Cargo Volume, cu. ft.	15.1

Standard Payload, lbs.	--

Fuel Capacity, gals.	16.3

Seating Capacity	5

Front Head Room, in.	39.4

Max. Front Leg Room, in.	42.2

Rear Head Room, in.	37.2

Max. Rear Leg Room, in.	37.6

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

Engines

	dohc I4	dohc V6	dohc I4/electric

Size, liters/cu. in.	2.4 /146	3.6 /217	2.4 /145

Horsepower @ rpm.	169 @ 6400	252 @ 6300	164 @ 6000

Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm.	160 @ 4500	251 @ 3200	159 @ 4400

Availability	Standard	Optional	Standard

EPA City / highway mpg

4-speed automatic	22/30	--/--	24/32

6-speed automatic	22/32	17/26	--/--

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

Front Impact, Driver	5

Front Impact, Passenger	5

Rollover Resistance	4

Side Impact, Driver	5

Side Impact, Rear Passenger	5

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	5/100,000	--

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

Corrosion	6/100,000	--

Free roadside assistance	5/100,000	--

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: 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
Trim Level: LS
Arrival Date: 12/13/2007
Engine: dohc I4
Bodystyle: 4-door sedan
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
4WD/AWD: No
Base Price: $19,345
Price as Tested: $20,075
Mileage at Beginning of Test: 2169
Mileage at End of Test: 2457
Total Measured Miles:
Total Fuel Used: 12.405 gals.

Major Options: Floor Mats

Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy: 23.22 mpg (what's this?)

Problems During Test: None

From The Back Seat
Damon Bell Some shoppers might wish for a bit more power, but it's hard to fault the Malibu LS's pleasant road manners and interior accommodations--especially at its bargain price.

Ed Piotrowski While 2008 Malibus with the V6 engine are very good, it's in 4-cylinder form where these cars really shine. Sure, a bit more oomph would be nice, but GM has at long last exorcised the demons of noise, vibration, and harshness that have plagued the Ecotec series of four-bangers since their debut. This midsize sedan is proof that GM is on the right track in its turnaround of the Chevrolet division. Buyers would be remiss not to put Malibu on their shopping lists.

Sikora Don The Malibu LS really shines against the Accord LX. Especially in base form, Malibu is agruably quieter and smoother than Accord is on the road, and the two-tone beige interior with chrome and satin silver accents that our test car sported is much more inviting than the monotone charcoal cabin that is the only choice in Accord LX.

Vehicle Evaluated: 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid
Trim Level: Hybrid
Arrival Date: 05/01/2008
Engine: dohc I4/electric
Bodystyle: 4-door sedan
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
4WD/AWD: No
Base Price: $22,140
Price as Tested: $22,790
Mileage at Beginning of Test: 4290
Mileage at End of Test: 4729
Total Measured Miles:
Total Fuel Used: 14.0171 gals.

Major Options: No options.

Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy: 31.32 mpg (what's this?)

Problems During Test: None

From The Back Seat
Jennifer Geiger I was pleased with our test Malibu Hybrid's $22,790 price tag and the 27.3 mpg I averaged during my 90-mile test drive. The hybrid model is a nice option for "green" buyers looking for the comfort and practicality of a midsize car but the gas mileage of a compact one.

Rick Cotta Malibu Hybrid costs about the same as the smaller Honda Civic Hybrid, with the Malibu trading greater interior room, a larger trunk, and a fold-down rear seatback for a loss of about 15 miles per gallon in economy. If that sounds like a fair sacrifice for the added utility, a 30-mpg Malibu might well be a great choice.

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Also in the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Review:

Chevrolet Malibu

Chevrolet Malibu Road Test

Chevrolet Malibu Prices & Equipment

Chevrolet Malibu Specs & Safety

Chevrolet Malibu Photos

Chevrolet Malibu Full Review

Chevrolet Malibu New Car Quote