2010 Chevrolet Malibu: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2010 Chevrolet Malibu might add a new gas/electric hybrid model to its lineup. 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 should remain unchanged. Two gas/electric Hybrid models should also be available. LS and LT should continue to 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 should remain available on the LT and standard on the LTZ. LT and LTZ should remain available with a 252-hp 3.6-liter V6 that teams with the 6-speed automatic.

The "single-mode" Hybrid should continue to combine the 4-cylinder gas engine with an electric motor. New for 2010 would be the Malibu "2 Mode" Hybrid. That model would use a 3.6-liter V6 with 255 hp. Both hybrid systems can shut off the gas engine at a stop, but only the 2 Mode allows the vehicle to accelerate at low speeds solely on electric power. No plug-in charging would be required for either hybrid. The 4-cylinder Hybrid would have a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the 2 Mode would use a continuously variable automatic (CVT). Available safety features should include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. A wireless cell phone link should remain available. Seventeen-inch wheels should continue to be standard on the LS and Hybrid. This report is based on evaluations of the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu.