Vehicle History Report
Get a CARFAX Vehicle History... the first step to protecting yourself from costly hidden problems.
- • New Cars
2009 Chevrolet Malibu Full Review
Date Published: 9/30/08
Also in the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Chevrolet Malibu Full Review
7.
8.
9.
2009 Chevrolet Malibu Review
The 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is largely unchanged following its 2008 redesign. This is the smaller of Chevy's two midsize sedans. It shares its basic design with the Pontiac G6, Saturn Aura, and Saab 9-3. LS, LT, and LTZ trim levels remain unchanged. 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 for the 4-cylinder is available on the LT and standard on the LTZ. LT and LTZ are available with 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, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. New for 2009 is a wireless cell phone link. Seventeen-inch wheels are now standard on the LS and Hybrid versus the 16s previously offered.
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, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. New for 2009 is a wireless cell phone link. Seventeen-inch wheels are now standard on the LS and Hybrid versus the 16s previously offered.
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2009 Chevrolet Malibu Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Passenger room | Rear visibility |
| Quietness | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
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. 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.
| 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. 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
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. All Malibus use regular-grade gas.
| LS | LTZ 4-cylinder | LTZ V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
| 6 | 7 | 6 | 9 | 5.7 |
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. All Malibus use regular-grade gas.
Ride Quality
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
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.
| LS | LTZ 4-cylinder | LTZ V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.9 |
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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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)
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.
| LS | LTZ 4-cylinder | LTZ V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.6 |
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)
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
Chevy has taken Malibu from the realm of rental fleet darling to a must-see 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 shopping list.
| LS | LTZ 4-cylinder | LTZ V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
| 9 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 6.4 |
Chevy has taken Malibu from the realm of rental fleet darling to a must-see 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 shopping list.
Total Score
| LS | LTZ 4-cylinder | LTZ V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
| 69 | 69 | 71 | 73 | 62.9 |
Scores for all Midsize Cars
| Low Score | 48 | |
| Average Score | 62 | |
| High Score | 74 |
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2009 Chevrolet Malibu Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 08/21/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
|||
| LS 4-door sedan | $20,745 | $19,604 | $650 |
|
|
|||
| LT 4-door sedan | $21,645 | $20,455 | $650 |
|
|
|||
| LTZ 4-door sedan | $26,020 | $24,589 | $650 |
|
|
|||
| Hybrid 4-door sedan | $24,695 | $23,337 | $650 |
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
LS
Powertrain
2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid system, 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, 215/55R17 tires, wheel covers.
LT adds to LS:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Steering wheel radio controls, floormats.
LTZ adds to LT:
Powertrain
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, heated power mirrors w/driver-side automatic day/night, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, wireless cell phone link, 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
Alloy wheels.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
2LT Option Pkg.
|
||
|
LT
|
$2,200
|
$2,079
|
|
6-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, leather-wrapped steering wheel, faux-suede upholstery, heated front seats, 6-way power driver seat, wireless cell phone link, universal garage door opener, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, illuminated visor mirrors, alloy wheels.
|
||
|
Engine Pkg.
|
||
|
LT
|
$1,795
|
$1,490
|
|
LTZ
|
$1,595
|
$1,324
|
|
3.6-liter V6 engine, upgraded power steering, chrome exhaust tips (LTZ), bright alloy wheels (LT). LT requires 2LT Option Pkg.
|
||
|
Power Convenience Pkg.
|
||
|
LT
|
$445
|
$369
|
|
6-way power driver seat, remote engine start.
|
||
|
Premium Mat Pkg.
|
||
|
LT
|
$185
|
$154
|
|
Upgraded floormats, cargo mat and net.
|
||
|
|
||
Powertrain |
||
|
6-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability
|
||
|
LT
|
$695
|
$577
|
|
|
||
Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
|
Power sunroof
|
||
|
LT, LTZ, Hybrid
|
$800
|
$664
|
|
6-way power driver seat
|
||
|
Hybrid
|
$200
|
$166
|
|
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. Requires 2LT Option pkg.
|
||
|
110-volt power outlet
|
||
|
LT
|
$150
|
$125
|
|
Floormats
|
||
|
LS
|
$80
|
$66
|
|
|
||
Appearance and Miscellaneous |
||
|
Bodyside moldings
|
||
|
LS, LT, Hybrid
|
$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
|
|
LT requires 2LT Option Pkg.
|
||
|
|
||
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2009 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 /145 | 3.6 /217 | 2.4 /145 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 169 @ 6400 | 252 @ 6300 | 164 @ 6000 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 160 @ 4500 | 251 @ 3200 | @ |
| Availability | Standard | Optional | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
|||
| 4-speed automatic | 22/30 | --/-- | 26/34 |
| 6-speed automatic | 22/33 | 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
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
Also in the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Chevrolet Malibu Full Review
7.
8.
9.
Car Buying Resources
Vehicle History Report
Locate a Dealer
Sell Your Car
Powered by:
-
MAKE -
CATEGORY
Acura
Aston Martin
Audi
Bentley
BMW
Buick
Cadillac
Chevrolet
Chrysler
Dodge
Ferrari
Ford
GMC
Honda
Hummer
Hyundai
Infiniti
Isuzu
Jaguar
Jeep
Kia
Lamborghini
Land Rover
Lexus
Lincoln
Lotus
Maserati
Mazda
Mercedes-Benz
Mercury
Mini
Mitsubishi
Nissan
Pontiac
Porsche
Rolls-Royce
Roush
Saab
Saturn
Scion
Smart
Subaru
Suzuki
Toyota
Volkswagen
Volvo
Subcompact Car
Compact Car
Midsize Car
Large Car
Premium Midsize Car
Premium Large Car
Sporty/performance Car
Premium Sporty/performance Car
Minivan
Full-size Van
Compact Sport-utility Vehicle
Midsize Sport-utility Vehicle
Large Sport-utility Vehicle
Compact Pickup Truck
Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicle
Premium Compact Sport-utility Vehicle
Large Pickup Truck
Premium Compact Car
Premium Large Sport-utility Vehicle
Exotic Car
