2009 Chevrolet Malibu: Road Test
2009 Chevrolet Malibu ▼
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- MSRP: $21,605 - $26,880
- Invoice: $20,417 - $25,402
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Our road test for the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu help you decide if a 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| LS | LTZ 4-cylinder | LTZ V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 7 | 4 | 5.4 |
Four-cylinder models (regular and Hybrid) don't jump from a stop but build speed reasonably quickly. Note that LS and some LT models come with a 4-speed automatic. It performs well with prompt, smooth shifts. The available 6-speed automatic is similarly smooth, but tends to get caught in the wrong gear for best response. V6 versions are strong off the line and spirited at any speed. Liberal 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 | 7 | 6 | 9 | 5.6 |
In Consumer Guide testing, 4-cylinder Malibus with the 4-speed automatic averaged 23.2 mpg in city and highway driving and 24.5 with more highway use. Test 4-cylinder versions with the 6-speed averaged 23.4-26.6 mpg. A V6 model averaged 21.4 mpg. A Hybrid averaged a miserly 31.3 mpg in our testing. Another Hybrid averaged 25.8 mpg. All Malibus use regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| LS | LTZ 4-cylinder | LTZ V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5 | 6 | 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, LT, and Hybrid 4-cylinder models use 17s that allow bumps to be taken in stride. 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 | 5.9 |
Body lean 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 V6'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 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
Chrome trim outlines the gauges, center vents, and console shifter, while faux 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 seat 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. Unfortunately, power-adjustable pedals are no longer offered. 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 | 4.1 |
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 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 6.3 |
Chevy has taken Malibu from the realm of rental fleet darling to a must-see Best Buy in this highly competitive segment. This midsize sedan stands out for its refined powertrains, smart interior design, and value pricing. We especially like the smooth, quiet 4-cylinder engine and frugal Hybrid. Considering a Honda Accord or Toyota Camry? Be sure to add Malibu to your test-drive list.
Total Score
| LS | LTZ 4-cylinder | LTZ V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 69 | 69 | 71 | 73 | 62.9 |
Total Score: 71
Scores for all Midsize Cars
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