2008 Chevrolet Malibu: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

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.