The 2008 Chevy Malibu is undoubtedly one of GM’s most important unveilings this year. The company thinks it’s so good compared to its rivals that it is preparing a massive $100m marketing campaign whose aim will be to switch buyers from import brand vehicles.

The Malibu was last redesigned in 2004 and completely missed the target in terms of styling, but the company believes that the Malibu’s new bold design is sure to bring back those buyers.

The latest iteration of the Malibu will sit on an already-praise-winning chassis and will be sold with a variety of engines, including a fuel efficient entry level four cylinder model coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission. This entry level version will be available in early 2008. Sadly, we’ve already seen the Malibu Hybrid and its mileage figures leave more than a little to be desired.

GM’s push to market this car heavily not only shows the cars importance to the company, but is a push to place it ahead of its competition, the Toyota Camry and the soon to be released the redesigned Honda Accord.